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Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

My Best 61 Travel Tips to Make You the World’s Savviest Traveler

Most people aren’t born savvy travelers. It’s something that only comes with on-the-road experience. Travel savviness is a process born of missed buses, foolish behavior, cultural unawareness, and countless tiny 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 just 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 the last sixteen years 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. Always pack a towel. It’s the key to successful galactic hitchhiking – and plain common sense. You never know when you will need it, whether it’s at the beach, on a picnic, or just to dry off after a shower. While many hostels offer towels, you never know if they will or not, and carrying a small towel won’t add that much weight to your bag.

Make sure it’s a lightweight, quick-drying towel since regular towels are too bulky and heavy (and they take a long time to dry). Dry Fox travel towels are my favorite (use the code “nomadicmatt” for 15% off your purchase)!

My favorite bag is the Flash Pack from REI . Other companies offering high-quality bags are Osprey, Nomatic, and MEC (for Canadians).

This article has more tips on finding the best travel backpack for your needs.

The same rule applies to suitcases. Don’t take a huge suitcase because they are a pain in the butt to lug around, especially if you’re traveling long term (short term, not so much). I like Level 8 suitcases. They are durable, quite spacious, nicely designed, and well-priced (luggage can be pretty damn expensive). Plus, they have a TSA lock built into the zipper. You can click here to learn more and buy one .

I also recommend packing cubes , which are essential if you’re going to be living out of a backpack for a few weeks (or months), or you just want to keep your suitcase better organized. They come in a variety of sizes, allowing you to store items big and small. They’re great for making it easy to find everything in your backpack or suitcase.

3. Pack light. Write down a list of essentials, cut it in half, and then only pack that! Plus, since you bought a small backpack like I said above, you won’t have much room for extra stuff anyways! Take half the clothes you think you will need…you won’t need as much as you think. It’s OK to wear the same t-shirt a few days in a row.

I love Unbound Merino , as their travel clothing can be worn daily for weeks without getting smelly. They are super light and they look sylish too. I really love the material, they’re comfortable, they hardly ever need a wash, and they last forever!

Click here for more packing tips .

4. But take extra socks. You’ll lose a bunch to laundry gremlins, wear and tear, and hiking so packing extra will come in handy. Take a few more than you need. Trust me on this. Nothing beats a fresh pair of socks!

Here’s a list of all my best hostels around the world . If you’re planning on backpacking Europe , it’s worth getting HostelPass , a card that gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money, and they’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and so I’m glad it finally exists. Use code NOMADICMATT for 25% off.

6. Take an extra bank card and credit card with you Disasters happen and things get stolen or compromised. I once had a card duplicated and a freeze put on it. I couldn’t use it for the rest of my trip. I was very happy I had a backup. You don’t want to be stuck somewhere new without access to your funds. This happened to a friend once and they had to borrow money for me for weeks while they waited for their new card to arrive.

Here are some helpful articles on banking:

• How to Avoid Banking Fees While Traveling
• 22 Ways to Cut Your Expenses and Have Money for Travel
• How to Pick the Best Travel Credit Card

7. Make sure to use no-fee bank cards. Don’t give banks your hard-earned money. Keep that for yourself and spend it on your travels. Get a credit card and debit card that doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee or an ATM fee. Over the course of a long trip, the few dollars they take every time will really add up!

Here’s an article that will tell you how to do that.

8. Don’t fly direct. When booking flights, sometimes it is cheaper to fly in to airports close to your final destination, and then take a train, bus, or budget airline to where you need to go.

To use this method, find out how much it is to go directly to your destination. Then, look at prices to 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 . This is my go-to website for finding cheap flights. It searches a lot of different airlines, including many of the budget carriers that larger sites miss.

Here are some more tips on finding cheap flights!

Here are some helpful articles on solo travel:

• Why I Travel Alone
• The Joy of Solo Travel
• Travel: The Ultimate Personal Development Tool
• How to Overcome Being Alone
• Reading People: One Skill Travel Has Taught Me

10. Always visit the local tourism information center. This is probably one of the most underused travel tips in the world. Tourism information centers know about everything going on in town. They can point you to free activities, special events happening during your stay, and everything in between. They even offer discounts on attractions and transportation. It is their job to help you experience the destination better. It’s amazing how many travelers skip this when they are visiting somewhere but, as a savvy traveler, you know to use this resource!

11. Take free walking tours. Besides being free, these tours will give you a good orientation and background of the city you are visiting. I love, love, love taking walking tours when I travel. You pass the time, you get to pepper the guide with questions, and you get to learn so much about where you are. Here are some of my favorite walking tour companies around the world:

• The Best Walking Tours in New York City
• The Best Walking Tours in London
• The Best Walking Tours in Paris
• The Best Walking Tours in Berlin
• The Best Walking Tours in Amsterdam

And while free walking tours are great, sometimes it’s worth it to take a paid walking tour if you’d like to dig deeper into a particular aspect of the destination. Walks is one of my favorite paid walking tour companies, offering in-depth history and cultural tours in cities around the world (especially Europe). Its small-group tours also tend to offer exclusive behind-the-scenes access you can’t get elsewhere.

For fellow foodies, Devour Food Tours has all kinds of amazing food tours around Europe.

12. Don’t be afraid to use a map. Looking like a tourist isn’t as bad as getting really lost and ending up in the wrong neighborhood. Don’t be afraid to use a map or ask for directions and look like a tourist. After all, you are one!

13. 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 might be surprised by the hidden gems you find. I like to wander around and try to find my way without using Google Maps. Travel is the art of discovery and you never know what cool little spot you’ll come across.

14. Ask hostel staff for information — even when you aren’t staying there. Hostel staff deal with budget travelers all day, every day. They know exactly where to go for cheap meals and attractions. They also tend to be locals so they know the city very well. Ask them for all sorts of information. Even if you aren’t staying in one, just pop in and ask for help. They’ll usually give it.

15. Sign up for flight deals. When it comes to travel, your flight(s) will likely be your biggest expense. Save money by signing up for flight deal websites. You’ll get epic flight deals straight to your inbox, saving you time and money. Also be sure to sign up for airline newsletters, since that is where they will announce their sales first. The best websites for finding travel deals are:

• Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) – The BEST for upcoming US flight deals.
• The Flight Deal – Great for global flight deals.
• Holiday Pirates – The best for European flight deals.
• Secret Flying – A great site for flight deals from around the world.

16. Don’t buy a money belt — they’re stupid. Thieves know they exist and being seen with one basically shouts, “Look at me, I’m a tourist with money! Rip me off!” The more you can blend in and act like a local, the easier it will be to get deals and avoid touts. If you’re worried about pickpockets, keep a better eye on your stuff!

17. When you go out, take only what you need. Limit the amount of cash and bank cards you carry with you when you go out, so if something does happen, you can easily recover. Never take more than one credit card or ATM card with you. My rule for cash is to limit what I carry to $50 USD.

18. Always carry a lock. Carry a small combination lock with you when you travel. They come in handy, especially when you stay in dorms. Most hostels use lockers, so budget travelers need to provide their own travel lock to keep stuff secured. While you can usually rent or buy them at hostels, it’s much cheaper just to buy one before you go. (Just don’t use one with keys because if you lose the keys, you’re screwed!)

19. Make extra copies of your passport and important documents. Don’t forget to e-mail a copy to yourself too. You never know when you might need to have some sort of documentation with you and might not want to carry your original. Additionally, if your passport gets stolen having a copy will come in handy for your police report.

20. Learn basic phrases in the native language of your destination. The locals will appreciate it and it will make your interactions easier. You don’t need to master the language but learning a few things like “Hello,” “Goodbye,” “Thank you!”, “Where’s the bathroom?” will go a long way to endearing yourself with the locals. They’ll like that you tried.

Here are some tips on how to learn a language .

Here are some posts that highlight my favorite reads:

• 13 Travel Books That Will Give You Serious Wanderlust
• The Best Travel Books
• 12 Books to Take You Around the World

22. 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 the food at McDonald’s! That shit is gross and unhealthy for you! You can get it back home!). Libraries and most modern coffee shops also have free Wi-Fi too.

23. Always get behind business travelers when in security lines. They move fast since they are usually in a rush and travel light. They know the drill. Line up behind them as much as possible. You’ll speed through the line!

24. Never get behind families in airport security. They take forever. It’s not their fault. They just have a lot of stuff because of the kids. Try to avoid getting in lines with lots of kids. It’s going to take a while.

25. When you check in to the hotel, don’t be afraid to ask for an upgrade. They have a lot of flexibility when it comes to assigning upgrades at check-in. It never hurts to ask. Often times they can accommodate you if the hotel isn’t full. Just be super nice!

Note: If you stay in hotels frequently (or want to), it might be worth it to get a hotel credit card . You can earn points on your everyday spending at home and convert those points into free stays. The best cards come with status, making upgrades more likely too!

26. Write down your experiences. Even in this hyper-technological age, I think everyone needs to write more during their travels so they have something to look back on. I never leave home without a journal. Not only do I use them for work (I’m constantly taking notes and writing down ideas) but I also use them to keep track of my travels.

Simple travel journals work great for journaling during your trip as well as for writing down logistical information like directions, contact information, and language tips.

If you want a travel journal that isn’t just blank pages but rather has space for itinerary planning, places to jot notes in the local language, inspirational quotes, and more, grab our new travel journal. It was designed specifically with travelers in mind, so you can take notes as well as write down stories and reflections during your travels.

27. Lunchtime is the best time to visit historical sites. Be a contrarian. You’ll have fewer crowds getting in your way as big tour buses, groups, and most travelers head to lunch. It’s always best to visit an attraction super early, late, or when people eat. You’ll have even the most popular places to yourself!

28. Never eat in a touristy area or near a tourist attraction. As a general rule, I walk five blocks in either direction before I find a place to eat. The closer you are to tourist attractions the more you are going to pay and the worse the food (and service). Use websites like Yelp , Google Maps , or Open Rice to find some delicious and popular restaurants around you.

Additionally, never eat anywhere the menu is in like 6 languages! That means the restaurant is just for tourists!

29. Locals don’t eat out every night and neither should you. Go grocery shopping. You can learn a lot about locals’ diets by seeing the type of food they buy. Plus, it will save you a lot of money. You won’t regret it. Cook your food, save money, and surprise yourself!

30. Eat at expensive restaurants during lunch. Most expensive restaurants offer lunch specials featuring the same food they would serve for dinner but for a fraction of the cost! That’s the best time to eat out when you travel.

I share more tips on how to eat cheaply around the world here.

31. Pack a headlamp. This is a handy tool for both backpackers and anyone looking to do any hiking or camping. If you’re going to be staying in a hostel, having a headlamp is helpful when you need to check in or out but don’t want to disturb your fellow travelers by turning on the lights. They’re also helpful in emergencies.

32. Carry a basic first-aid kit. Accidents happen, so be prepared. I always take band-aids, antibacterial cream, and ointments for minor cuts and scrapes. You never know when you’re going to need it and you can’t always get it when you travel.

You can either assemble a first aid kit yourself ( here are some tips for doing so ), or purchase a pre-made kit online .

33. Don’t believe the cheap flight myths. Don’t drive yourself too crazy trying to get the absolute cheapest fare. There are a lot of myths online about how to find cheap flights, but there is no magic bullet or one secret ninja trick. It’s not cheaper to book on a particular day of the week, or if you search in an incognito window.

Spending five hours to try to save $10 will cause you a lot of stress. Once you find a flight deal that you’re happy with, book right away, as airfares change by the minute. Remember, you usually have a 24-hour window to cancel in case you need to.

Here are some article on how to save money on flights:

• 5 Steps to Booking a Cheap Flight Online
• How to Always Find a Cheap Flight
• Where I Find the Best Travel Deals

34. Use Meetup, the sharing economy, and hospitality websites to meet locals. These websites will help you get an insider’s perspective on your destination by connecting you with locals in the places you visit. The sharing economy has changed the way people travel allowing you to meet locals, get off the tourist travel, and save mega money! 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.

35. Be open to strangers. Not everyone bites. Say hi to people on the road. Turn strangers into friends. Remember they are just like you! They want to live a happy, full life and have hopes and dreams too! You never know. You just might make some lifelong friends.

36. But keep your guard up. Some people do bite, so keep a healthy level of suspicion. You don’t want to fall for any travel scams or get yourself into uncomfortable situations. Be open but cautious. Here is a list of travel scams to avoid.

• My Favorite Restaurants in Europe
• The Best Places to Eat in NYC
• How to Eat Cheap Around the World
• 30+ Places to Eat in Tokyo
• How to Eat Around the World on a Vegan Diet

38. Avoid taxis. They are always a budget buster. Never, ever take a taxi unless you absolutely have too!

39. 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. They’re also polluting our oceans and destroying the environment. Drink from the tap when you can — you’ll save money and help the environment. If you’re going somewhere where you can’t drink the water, be sure to get a water bottle with a filter. I love Lifestraw .

40. Get city attraction cards. If you are going to visit a lot of museums and other attractions in a short period of time, a city pass is going to save you money on admission (plus most provide free public transportation too!).

41. Take pictures of your luggage and clothes. If your bag gets lost, this will help identify it more easily and speed up the process of having your travel insurance reimburse you.

42. Carry emergency cash. Because emergencies happen, like that time in Romania when I couldn’t find an ATM and needed money for the bus to the hostel. I usually try to keep around $200 USD in emergency cash in case something happens!

43. Get good shoes. You walk a lot when you travel. Don’t beat up your feet. Love them as much as they love you, and they’ll take you to amazing places.

My favorite shoes for traveling are Suavs shoes , which are versatile and durable. They’re comfortable and great for exploring a new city all day, but also look nice enough that you can dress them up if you want to at night.

44. 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. So regardless of your opinion on the subject, you just might have to.

Here is an article on how to stay healthy on the road.

45. Learn to haggle. Haggling is a fun, playful way of not getting charged the foreigner price. It’s the art of negotiating and one that will help you throughout all of life, not just at the market.

Here are some articles to help you get started with using points and miles:

• Points and Miles 101: A Beginner’s Guide
• How I Earn 1 Million Frequent Flier Miles Every Year
• The Best Travel Credit Cards
• The Ultimate Guide to Picking the Best Travel Credit Card

47. Take a jacket. Nights get chilly.

48. Eat street food! If you skip the street food, you miss out on culture . Don’t be scared. If you’re nervous, look for places where kids are eating. If it’s safe for them, it’s safe for you.

49. Get travel insurance. Travel insurance is the most important thing to get that you never want to use. If something goes wrong, you don’t want to be out thousands of dollars in bills. Travel insurance will be there if you get robbed, flights get canceled, you get sick or injured, or have to be sent home. It’s comprehensive and, for just a few dollars a day, one of the best investments you can get for a trip.

You may think you’re superman/woman but so did my friend who broke her arm, didn’t have insurance, and had to pay thousands out of pocket. Insurance was there when I had to replace my camera and when I popped an eardrum scuba diving! 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. They are affordable, have great customer service, and make it easy to make 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.

50. Be patient. Things will work out in the end. No need to rush. You’ll get to where you are going in due time. Travel is about the journey, not the destination.

51. 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. If you don’t, you’ll end up just looking like an asshole tourist.

52. Don’t over plan your trip. Let your days unfold naturally. Schedule two or three things and let the day fill in the rest on its own. It’s less stressful, and letting the day just take you is one of the best ways to travel. Here’s my advice on how not to over plan your travels!

53. Relax. See Be patient .

54. Be frugal — but not cheap. Don’t be pennywise but pound-foolish. Look for deals and don’t waste money, but don’t miss out on great experiences or walk 10 miles to save a couple of dollars. Time is money. Spend them both wisely.

55. Take earplugs. Anyone who has ever stayed in a hostel knows that earplugs are a necessity. Snorers are everywhere and you need your sleep.

But even if you’re not going to be in a hostel, they’re still helpful for sleeping well if your accommodation is located on a busy street, or for sleeping in buses, overnight trains, and other types of transportation. 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.

56. Always carry a power bank. Batteries die. Your good mood shouldn’t.

We all travel with numerous electronic devices like phones and tablets, but it can be hard to keep them all charged. An external battery solves that problem.

57. Remember that you’re not alone even if you’re traveling solo. Traveling alone never means you’re really alone. Wherever you go, there is a network of travelers who will be your friends, give you advice or tips, and help you out. They will guide you, point you in the right direction, and be your mentors. You aren’t out there on your own. You’ll make lots of friends and tons of memories.

If you’re not sure about traveling on your own for the first time, you can always join a group tour, such as those we offer at The Nomadic Network . I’ve designed all the itineraries myself to ensure they cover the highlights, get you off the tourist trail, and connect you with friends and locals.

59. Pre-book your tickets to attractions, activities, and excursions online. If you’re planning to do any activities or excursions on your trip, book them online. Companies usually offer a discounted price when compared to buying in person. Not only that but you’ll be able to pay with a credit card, giving you some extra protection as well as more travel points!

Many major attractions also allow you to reserve your spot and skip the line. Always look online to see if this is an option. This will you to avoid wasting time in multi-hour lines and go right in. I’ve seen people wait hours for the Paris Catacombs, Louvre, London Churchill War Rooms, churches, temples, historic fortresses, and more. Pre-book the day before, skip the line, get to see more during your day!

Get Your Guide is my favorite place to book activities in advance. It’s a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions, with tons of options in cities all around the world, including skip-the-line attraction tickets, cooking classes, walking tours, and more!

60. Avoid TripAdvisor. TripAdvisor is fine when you need opening hours or an address, but when it comes to reviews I ignore it completely. People always leave a negative review when something bad happens but rarely leave a positive review when something good happens so the reviews tend to be skewed.

On top of that, it’s very easy to create fake reviews and make a place seem better than it is. Many hotels and restaurants hire firms to artificially inflate their reviews on the platform. Additionally, TripAdvisor has been known to take down reviews that are overly negative as well as reviews on sexual assault. Use TripAdvisor with caution. Or better yet, don’t use it at all.

61. 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.

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

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. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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The Ultimate Guide to Travel Makeup (with Printable Checklist)

TOILETRIES , Travel Beauty Tips , Travel Makeup

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

Even minimalists occasionally love to bring a bag of travel makeup with them for nights out or just for a simple look during the day. Keep reading to find out our tips for packing travel makeup.

Travel Makeup

Table of contents.

Not every woman wears makeup, and some of us can’t live without it. The truth is that styled hair and fresh-faced makeup truly add the finishing touch to create a polished appearance.

That’s the real secret to chic style. It doesn’t matter how perfect your travel wardrobe looks if these other factors are missing.

You’ll want to look your best when you travel! Read my travel tips to Pack Light Stylishly !

Now this doesn’t mean that you need to bring your entire beauty cabinet on a trip or start using makeup if that’s not your thing. It’s just a reminder not to skip out on it if you use it at home, and to bring along essential items that enhance your features for a natural, up-to-date look.

Let’s review some basic tips on how to minimize the amount of products you pack!

A few quick things to note:

• Products such as mascara, eyeliner, blush, and lip color are the most visually enhancing products, and therefore give you the biggest bang for your buck.
• Items you may want to consider skipping include multiple eye shadow palettes (choose just one), primers (for the eyes and face), lip liners, and false eyelashes.
• Alternatively, choose one feature and play it up! Use a bright lip color for instant femininity or focus on creating bright, flirty eyes.

Keep it simple!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

What Defines a Product as Travel Makeup?

What makeup can i take on a plane, what’s the best travel makeup bag, how do you keep your liquid makeup products from leaking, how to choose and pack makeup for travel, step 1: make a plan, step 2: eliminate the non-essentials, step 3: focus on duplicates and multi-use products, step 4: focus on quantity, step 5: downsize.

Now, let’s look at a few steps to take to nail down your travel makeup bag.

While we can pack just about any makeup product in our suitcase, some items are more practical than others for travel. A few features that make a product ideal for travel is:

• It’s compact and smaller than 3 ounces. As proponents of carryon traveling, we recommend sticking to liquid makeup in reusable travel containers less than 3 ounces. Even if you’re traveling for several months, 3 ounces can go a long way, especially for foundation.
• It’s in a durable container. The last thing you want is your makeup crumbling or spilling onto your clothing. Your makeup for travel should be in a container that won’t easily open, leak, or shatter. These are the best containers for liquid beauty products .
• It’s easy to apply. The best travel makeup is easy to apply on the go. Having to pack sponges and brushes to apply foundation or concealer takes up more space in your toiletry bag.
• It doesn’t require touchups. When you’re exploring a new city, it’s no fun having to reapply your concealer or touch up your eyeliner . The best travel makeup is long-lasting so you can apply once and you’re set for the day.

One of the most important things to know before you start planning for your trip is what you are allowed to bring in your suitcase. The makeup you can take on a plane depends on whether or not you are checking your luggage.

Image Source:  US Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

For cabin or carryon makeup:  Airlines require that liquid products be no more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and all bottles must fit in a clear quart size ziplock bag when traveling with a carryon. Makeup products that need to be inside the quart size ziplock bag include liquids, gels, and creams. This is called the  3-1-1 Liquids Rule .

Clear Travel Toiletry Bag

For checked toiletries:  Items that are in containers larger than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters (regardless of amount) should be in checked baggage. Visit  this TSA page  to find out exactly what items are allowed in a checked bag.

These guidelines are for US-based airlines. However, these tend to be the general guidelines across all airlines. For specific items, always check the website of the airline or contact them and ask them directly.

Avoid using liquids by using solid toiletries , liquid-free makeup gloves , and these wipes instead of liquid makeup remover.

Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag

Along with choosing the best travel makeup, you’ll want a makeup bag to hold it all. We love  Travel Smart’s travel cosmetic bags , which are made of clear vinyl material so you can quickly and easily locate a needed item, with a separate mesh compartment so you can organize your skincare and makeup. Alternatively, you can also try this makeup organizer from Ms. J .

For more suggestions, read our article rounding up the five best travel cosmetics bags .

Tip: make sure that you keep the quart size ziplock bag (storing your carryon toiletries) accessible when you get to the airport. Once you get through security, place them back into your toiletry bag.

These are the best toiletry bags and you can download a toiletry checklist here .

You can also wrap your makeup bag in clothing and add to your  packing cube  in your suitcase to better protect it.

Leakproof Travel Bottles

Here’s a tip I shared on Oprah to help you prevent liquids from leaking in luggage: remove the cap from the bottle, place a small square of plastic wrap over the opening, and replace the cap.

The reason your bottles leak or explode on a flight is due to changes in air pressure. As the plane goes up, the pressure causes the bottle to compress (as if you were squeezing it with your hand). The plastic wrap acts as a seal to prevent leaks.

This is the reason why store bought travel size toiletries are never completely full. You need to allow a little bit of extra space so the liquids don’t get pushed out by the changes in pressure. (This is also the reason why your ears get plugged while flying.)

The solution:  don’t fill your bottles all the way to the top. Instead, only fill them up 75%.

Follow the below step-by-step guide on how to pack toiletries to determine what you will and will not need to bring along with how to downsize items.

If you’re a makeup hoarder, chances are that your collection is bursting with foundations and blushes that you might not reach for often. Stripping down your collection to the key items you always count on can make more space and keep the clutter away. The first step to creating a capsule makeup collection is making a plan of what you need.

Lay out all your makeup products. Choose anything and everything you think you may need. What are your essentials? Go through the list and choose one of these options for each category.

Need, Want, Not required, Not applicable:

• Highlighter
• Eyebrow pencil
• Eyelash curler
• Oil absorbing wipes
• Makeup brushes
• And many more variations of the above!

TRAVEL BEAUTY TIP:  Consider any additional makeup products you use or don’t use, and then you can add or remove them from this list.

These are some of the best makeup products for travel according to our readers:

• Best Longlasting Lipstick
• Best Longlasting Concealers
• Best Longlasting Foundation
• Best Non-Smudge Eye Liner
• Best Waterproof Mascara

Printable Makeup Checklist

Now that you’ve gone through the entire list of every possible makeup product you own, create two piles: one for items you don’t need to take and one for items you absolutely do.

When simplifying your list, make sure you pack all of the most  essential travel beauty products  and leave out the ones you don’t need.

For example:

• Do you need three different eyeshadows or can you take along one small palette ?
• Instead of packing mascara, could you get an eyelash lift before your trip?
• Do you need to bring tweezers and eyebrow pencil or can you have them threaded or waxed before your trip?
• Do you need a primer, foundation, and setting powder, or can you bring a mattifying, waterproof foundation ?

TRAVEL BEAUTY TIP: Travel-size brushes are always an essential, but do you need to take all of them? Get creative with the way you apply your makeup! Use one brush for multiple products, or use your fingers, instead.

One of the best ways to minimize travel makeup is to choose multi-use products or items. Determine if there are any products you already own that that can work double-duty. Avoid makeup that’s similar in purpose or color and choose between two products that serve the same (or similar) purpose.

Depending on your coverage needs, your foundation could double as concealer. Or if you like brown eyeshadow, use your bronzer for dual purposes. For example:

• Full coverage powder vs. foundation
• Under eye highlighter vs. concealer
• Lipstick vs. lip gloss
• Bronzer vs. blush
• Eyelash curler vs. mascara
• Powder vs. oil absorbing wipes
• Primer vs. concealer
• Eye pencil vs. eyeshadow
• Eyebrow pencil vs. eyeshadow

There are various multi-use products on the market that are absolutely great for travel:

• Lip and cheek tints
• Creamy makeup bars for eyes, cheeks, and lips
• Powder foundation or full coverage foundation
• Wet/dry powders (double as foundation)
• Wet/dry eyeshadows (double as eye pencil)
• Bronzer/blush duo
• Tinted moisturizers with SPF
• Double-ended makeup brushes

Or you can use a few long-term travel hacks like I do, such as:

• Lip pencil as lipstick and blush
• Eyeliner for the eyes and eyebrows
• A moisturizer that works for day and night
• A sunscreen that doubles as a makeup primer

TRAVEL BEAUTY TIP:  Don’t be afraid to get creative! Who says a bronzer can’t be used as eyeshadow?

Stila Stay All Day Foundation Kit

Now that you know what items you absolutely have to pack, it’s time to determine how much of them you actually need. Think about how much makeup you apply and how long you’ll be gone on your trip.

Have you ever paid attention to how much foundation you use? You may only need to take a few drops. Likewise, a travel-size lip gloss or mascara may suffice for the duration of your trip.

Start by looking at the length of your trip. Make note of how much product you use for the duration of that time. Now that you know what items you absolutely have to pack, it’s time to determine how much of them you actually need.

TRAVEL BEAUTY TIP: Instead of packing full-size eyebrow pencils or lip liners, see if you have any half-used products lying around. They’ll take up less space!

Round Clear Jars

Now it’s time to start the downsizing process. Choose appropriate travel containers like these and these and look for travel-size makeup products. Holiday sets or “gifts with purchase” are perfect to save and use for travel!

Choose appropriate travel containers for your larger makeup products. Many times, 3 ounce bottles are too big for a one or two-week trip, so buy various sizes and take only the amount you will use.

Watch this video to learn how I downsize my makeup for travel!

Instead of immediately buying “travel-size” containers in 3oz or 100ml bottles, get a range of sizes including  1oz ,  2oz , and smaller jars like  these , too.

Aside from trimming down on the quantity of products you pack, also consider how you use it.

• Instead of packing an eye shadow palette featuring eight colors, take a smaller one that features two to four. You can take your look from day to night by playing with shading and depth of color.
• Get creative with your eye shadows. One color can transform into several if you apply more or less. Brown is my favorite way to accomplish this. Apply lightly over the lid, blend a bit more at the crease, then dot extra on the corner of your eye before a final blend. A three in one, who knew?
• Create a summer and winter eye shadow palette so you only take the one you need during the season.
• Instead of taking several eyeliners or lip colors, choose one that’s your favorite and neutral enough to match with several different looks.
• Choose one thin palette instead of several thick cases. Several eye shadow pots can be replaced by one single palette.
• Replace glass containers with plastic to lighten the load.

TRAVEL BEAUTY TIP: Go to department store counters and ask for free samples of makeup and skincare products. Sephora is also a great option!

And for every single trick in my packing book, read my full course “ Stop Overpacking “. I created the STOP OVERPACKING program to teach you my exact packing process. Every secret, every detail, nothing is spared.

What are your ultimate guide to travel makeup? Share in the comments below!

For more travel makeup suggestions, please read:

• Best Makeup for Pictures
• 7 Clever Travel Makeup Hacks
• How to Make Your Makeup Last All Day
• Pack Lighter with a Capsule Makeup Collection

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

I hope you liked this post on the ultimate guide to travel makeup. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

56 comments.

Great checklist I’m getting ready for a 10 day trip to Germany and Italy I’m a minimalist anyway For me facial cream with UV protection to protect my face is the most important item to bring

I recently bought a pallet by Seint Cosmetics and love how compact it is! The makeup itself is highly pigmented, so a little goes a long way. My foundation, concealer, blush/lip, contour, shadows are all in one compact.

Great post! I have started using contact lens cases for foundation they hold a lot! I use small bottles that have a spray end and a roller ball end for sprays and oil cleansers. I also keep my small containers(eye cream etc.) wash them and re-use for other products. It feels really good to cut down on the amount of products, to help travel light!

I’m loving the tips of using small round jars for my creams & decanting for my shampoo & conditioner! Thank you!

I am not a big makeup girl, but this was so helpful! For short trips and for creams I don’t need much of, I’ve been using contact lens cases – compact and leak proof!

Thank you for this post! I have had my capsule wardrobe down for years now, but this is an area I continue to struggle with. My latest improvement: the eye brightener line from Thrive Causemetics. Darker colors can double as eye liner and as a shadow if you’re trying to glam it up a bit. Two pencils is all I need!

Fabulous suggestions on packing my makeup for two week! Thanks for helping me come up with solutions to keep it smaller than I usually do.

It’s amazing how quickly the makeup bag can fill up! I’ve finally decided NO EYE SHADOW, I don’t wear it at home so why do I keep lugging around a palate of eye shadow 🙄

I Have been struggling to figure out how to pack some of my make up for an upcoming trip to Israel . . . this information is perfect!!! Thank you : )

This is one of the most informative articles on packing makeup and what to bring / what not to bring. Great information and tips!

Great ideas!

Great tips!!

I LOVE my round clear jars for my powder makeup! I just use my label baker to help identify everything.

Thanks for the great tips and lessons! I’m not a big makeup girl, but I still learned some great things to do to keep my bag light.

I never really thought about what to take in regards of make-up on vacation. This past vacation, my friend had a beautiful make-up bag and I was so impressed. I’m really tired of plastic zip lock bags, and my freind’s bag was soft, quilted, and held a load of items. My husband and I have stayed off of planes, as much as possible, however, we really want to get back to Europe. Perhaps Summer of 2023. Thank you for your thorough list which is such a great guide. I will streamline my makeup items and be confident that I have everything that I need! Thank!

Thanks for the great tips! I used the Sea to Summit small bad per an earlier article and discussion. Now I have a few extra things to do (condense) for my next trip. Thanks!

I have been following TFG for over5 years. It has completely changed not only his I pack, but how I dress completely. Quality pieces not quantity. Items I wear over and over. This blog post really helped me think about the other things I pack. My p is almost completely sticks and creams now making it light weight, carry-on pack able and fat to apply. Another TFG win!

I love my makeup and find it’s so hard not to take a train case full of my products “just in case.” I’m going away in a month and I’m really going to try to do minimal packing. Clothes and makeup! I plan on using several of your tips for a light stress free trip. Thank you. Rhonda M

It is so hard to leave my fave products but these are great tips!

I love the tips for decanting and also think that downsizing to go without full palate works best for travel. I spent years lugging around just in case I want to do my makeup or jewelry choices only to bring them back unused. Reading your blogs and personal experiences along with other women’s helpful tips about doing without, going easy-breezy is helping me to pare down more each trip Thank YOU!!!!

this is extremely useful, thank you

Great info. Will definitely be using some of these tops on my next trip.

I have been following you for some time now. Love all the tips you have from packing list to make up minimalistic endeavors

Love all of these tips.

I love your tips for decanting stuff into small containers. Thank you for providing links to Amazon for the small little clear jars and tubes. They work fantastic!

This is the one thing I struggle with the most! I know I don’t need three eyeshadow palettes, but I panic at the last minute and pack them all. These tips have really inspired me to pare down my makeup kit to what I really need! Thank you!

I love using contact lens cases for eye makeup remover.

Love all these ideas! Also, another tip I can recommend is to save and use the small containers that come as freebies or samples from Sephora or Clinique for example. They’re the perfect size and most were sent to me by mail. If they survived shipping w/o leaks, then they should be able to handle air travel too!

Thank you for all the travel tips. Love them all. I struggle with packing and downsizing and decision making. I love the makeup travel tips. Thank you!!

Thank you! This has always been a huge problem for me. We are traveling to Italy carry on only in a few weeks and I think this checklist will finally help me narrow down my makeup bag!

This is very helpful. I pack makeup but then rarely wear it. This is helpful to make me take a critical look at what I am packing. Thanks.

All of your posts are great! Since I haven’t traveled since before COVID I’m excited to be taking a big trip again. Discovering your posts has made such a difference in my planning. And makeup is just one of the issues for me when packing. Thank you.

Such great tips!

I have worked really hard at minimizing my makeup for travel! My essentials are tinted BB cream with SPF, mascara, eyeliner, blush and lip gloss. The Laura Mercier eyeshadow sticks are AMAZING – super blendable and creamy! I’m heading off to London in early September so working on my packing right now!

So many helpful tips here. Thanks so much!

Thanks so much. When I return from a trip I always reorganize/refill my personal items so I am ready to go—whether by car or plane. So great to have a checklist to follow. I have a great eyeshadow brush that is double ended. Also shop Sephora minis-particularly Benefit.

Saving this post for future travel. ALWAYS struggle with my makeup and toiletries!

Use old contact cases for small amounts of creams like foundation. I recently tried this when I had to fly for an interview while on vacation and didn’t have access to travel containers.

Will try this. Thx!

Have you tried any of the jones road beaury products? They seem pretty compact for travel, but I’m curious if they work for others. I don’t really wear a lot of makeup. Just a tinted spf moisturizer, concealer, & eyeliner or mascara.

Thank you so much for this! I always carry too much makeup – just in case. I will follow all this advice for my upcoming trip to Greece.

Love this information it’s so helpful as makeup is one of my travel challenges!

These are great tips. I will definitely use them in my future plans.

Looking forward to my 2 week Ireland golfing trip and taking only my golf bag and carry-on. Toiletries are always a stressor but this has some good ideas for downsizing without scrimping!

Great tips! Appreciate the additional links to other articles and to actual products.

My makeup/toiletry bag has been my biggest challenge. This is so helpful a& will change the way I pack my bag!

TFG rocks! Always really sensible and practical advice and tips. Thank you!

This was a great blog. Great tips and clarification on certain items. Was not sure if gels and creams came under the liquids rule.

Mac cosmetics makes palettes that hold 2,4,8,12 eyeshadow/powder/ etc products and they sell these products individually. So you could get a big palette to hold all your favorites then a 2 or 4 to take when you travel but still swap over time for spring vs winter looks.

I am getting ready for a two week trip to Portugal. The makeup tips are so helpful! Thanks.

Thanks for making traveling so much easier!

This is so helpful so I can downsize for my trip. Thank you!

This post really helped me decide my strategy for make up and organize my products. I love being prepared for anything, be able to look good, and not carry a million extra items. Thank you.

Great guide; thank you. When I travel, I always seem to need more room in my suitcase for all my toiletries than my clothes! This guide will help me minimize.

This was super helpful (as are all your blogs!). Thank you so much for all the information you provide.

I do t think I can go on a trip without checking out the TFG tips. This has been a great source of information for me. Thank you so much for helping us travel lighter.

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Flight, hotel, bus & train app, makemytrip.com, designed for iphone.

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Get Up to 20% OFF* on your 1st booking. Valid for New Users of Flights & Hotels. T&C apply Your super travel app to fulfil all your travel needs and requirements! The MakeMyTrip travel booking app caters to world travellers and is the perfect place to book hotels, flight tickets, buses, hourly rooms, cabs, train tickets, visa, etc. Download the travel app and be ready to enhance your holiday experience. Avail super exclusive offers on flight booking, domestic & international trips, corporate hotels, holiday packages & more. Manage all your bookings, keep track of your travels and avail many other perks - all in just a few taps. With our ticket booking app, get the flexibility of reserving your stays @ 1 INR and paying the full amount later with an easy refund and cancellation policy. TRUSTED BY 5 CRORES + CUSTOMERS OVER 50 MILLION MONTHLY ACTIVE USERS Flight Bookings The best flight offers are right here! Take a soothing break to your favourite destination and avail super-saver offers. ● Sign up and get up to 1200 INR off on your first flight booking ● Grab exceptional travel deals and offers on our international flight booking app ● Book flights tickets to Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore or tickets to Dubai, Paris, Bangalore, Malaysia, etc. ● Compare flight tickets and book cheap flights with international & domestic airlines ● Check flight status & schedules and avail web check-in ● Get up to 100% refund on international flights cancellation on our flight app ● Our flight tickets app also has easy EMI options & bank offers for you ● You can also lock flight prices and pay later when you book your flight tickets ● Use code: WelcomeMMT and get instant discount on domestic flights Hotel Bookings The hotel booking experience just got upgraded with the MMT app. From luxury accommodations to budget properties, choose from a wide range of hotels, guesthouses and hostels and make your travel a memory to remember forever. ● Sign up on the best hotel booking app in India and grab awesome deals on MMT-assured hotels, hourly rooms, etc. ● Unlock the best international hotel offers and book your Dubai hotels, Bali hotels, Thailand hotels, Paris hotels and more at the best prices ● Also grab affordable domestic deals on Delhi hotels, Shimla hotels, Mumbai hotels & more ● You can reserve your stay @ 1 INR and pay the amount later ● Choose from 8 lakh+ stay options and get exclusive deals & discounts on your hotel booking at family & couple-friendly cheap hotels ● Avail no-cost EMI options & multiple payment methods and get free hotel room upgrades on luxury resorts, OYO rooms & more ● Enjoy premium villas and branded hotels with world-class services on our MMT luxe properties ● Avail signature amenities and royal hospitality with our Luxe Villas, Luxe International properties in Dubai, Maldives, and more Hourly Hotels It’s time to enjoy extra comfort and convenience on hotel booking with hourly hotels ● Book hotel on hourly room basis and save huge on accommodation ● On our hotel booking app, you can book hourly stays with flexible check-ins for 3, 6, or 9 hours Holiday Packages Travel the world like never before ● Book holidays packages to Dubai, Paris, Malaysia, Indonesia, etc. and avail easy EMI options on travel packages ● Book honeymoon packages, adventure packages & more to best-selling destinations and grab lowest prices Why book with Us? ● Get additional discount on Signup & have a great ticket booking experience ● Book domestic cheap flights and get best flight deals and discounts ● Compare hotels and book homestays at most reasonable prices available ● Avail easy cancellation & refund policy as you book flight tickets, cheap hotels and more ● Enjoy best resorts, buses & more in just a few clicks on our ticket booking app ● Book quick and hassle-free tourist visa with us ● Enjoy 24*7 customer support

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Bad experience at mountain majesty guest house.

At mountain majesty guest house as a family we were scared and had a life threatening experience at this location. Make my trip didn’t help us to find another location and the owner of this property was not ready to accept the reservation. The owner and his wife asked us to leave even after showing thr voucher, they misbehaved and the husband threatens us by banging on our car. My son got scared who is only 12 yrs old. I continuously kept asking make my trip representative to refund our money and we will look for another accommodation. Make my trip denied initially. We left the place and checked in into a local property campground nearby as it was already dark and Nubra valley is not well connected with the city. . I am not sure what happened between the guest house and make my trip, we as a-family were suffered and threatened. Not all bookings were bad, this was exceptional. My request is to make my trip, that we only book through the website to make sure that we are at safe place and we can get help if needed.

It’s utterly fraud and waste of time and money

I have booked my tickets through Make my Trip. And for some reasons I had to cancel and I canceled my tickets it’s been Iover a money I haven't got my refund. I tried to call customer care and it's another waste of time trying to call different nos to reach customer care but still failed to reach them out . Another ticket freshlywe have booked though we haven't got the refund for previous ticket. I have received an email saying that due to sons reasons airlines canceled the tickets and they gave option and it wasn't matching my dates and they said they will refund full amount to make my peril because I booked my tickets through Make my trip App. I have spent hours to reach Custoner care and no luck. And I have received an email next day from Make my trip saying that your trip completed I hope you had a wonderful flight. How funny it is. ? 😡😡I want my money back for two tickets nearly 20,000 rupees . I don’t know how to reach them out. I have tried at least 100 times. We don’t live in India. I have tried to reach different ways but I can’t . Can anyone help me ? I would never ever suggest anyone to book make my trip also I would never book through my my trip app. It’s fraud

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Makemytrip has a decent website that usually works just fine. The problem is that they make it nearly impossible to talk with a customer service representative. Searching the web for a customer service number gives few results and when you do find a number it takes you to a prerecorded message and doesn’t let you talk to a real person. The options, “press 1 for this” or “press 2 for that” are very specific and do not allow for out of the ordinary issues. The service directs you to their website which is also not at all useful for solving problems that do not fit their predefined categories. It looks like I will be moving to a different online travel agency like Yatra or Goibibo or something. Really frustrated!

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22 Fun Ways You Can Get Paid to Travel The World

Marc Andre, Contributor

• Updated December 20, 2023
• Co-authored by: R.J. Weiss, CFP®

There are more opportunities to get paid to travel than most people realize. While many online jobs let you work from anywhere, this article focuses specifically on jobs where travel is integral.

Below you’ll find 22 options, broken down into the following categories to help you find the ideal travel job:

• Freelancer/digital nomad jobs : Work on your own terms, whenever and wherever you want.
• Short-term jobs : Get paid to travel for a few weeks or a season, although the long-term potential is minimal.
• Career track travel jobs : Make travel a key part of your professional development and long-term career goals.
• Free or nearly-free travel opportunitie s: These are temporary and volunteer jobs that offer compensation for travel, room and board, or some combination of the two.

You can also click the menu button below to see a list of all the opportunities in this article and jump to the ones that you’re most interested in.

Table of Contents

Freelancer/Digital Nomad Jobs

The jobs in this section aren’t traditional jobs that involve working for an employer. In most cases you’ll be freelancing or running your own online business. If you’re looking for adventure and you want some control over your schedule, these jobs could be perfect for you.

#1. Travel Writer

Summary : As a travel writer, you’ll write articles, reports and reviews related to travel and tourism. Naturally, your work will involve visiting a lot of different locations in order to gain the experience needed for your writing.

How much it pays : According to Glassdoor, the average travel writer makes $52,930 .

How to get started : We’ll look at two different options below. If you want to start your own blog, you can refer to our guide “ How to Start a Blog And Make Money .” If you want to get hired by other publications, refer to our guide on how to become a freelance writer .

Freelance Travel Writer

Freelance writers work for a variety of different publications. Travel writers are hired by websites, blogs, magazines, guidebooks and other publications to produce articles and reports helpful to travelers. 

You might be assigned to review a particular resort or hotel, verify details of things to do in a specific city, or any number of different things. 

In most cases, you’ll be assigned to specific tasks and destinations, so you probably won’t be able to choose your own itinerary. You may be hired for a one-off assignment to write a specific article, or you might be hired for an ongoing assignment, like writing a new article each month.

Travel Blogger

If you want the freedom to travel wherever you want, whenever you want, start a travel blog. Instead of writing for clients, you’ll be writing for your own website, so you get to make all of the decisions.

Having a profitable travel blog is a great way to earn a living, but it will take some time and effort to reach the point where your blog income is enough to sustain you. Most blogs don’t make very much money the first year, so you’ll need some patience to make it through those first few months without giving up.

Potential avenues for revenue include brand partnerships, affiliate marketing, public speaking  and creating your own digital products to sell to your audience.

Where to learn more : If you want to see what it’s like to work as a travel writer, these two articles provide a lot of insight:

• How We Get Paid to Travel the World (travel blogging)
• What It’s Really, Truly Like to Be a Travel Writer (freelance travel writing)

#2. Travel Influencer

Summary : A travel influencer is someone with a large social media following hired by brands to promote a product or service.

How much it pays : According to a study done by TourismTeacher.com , the average income of a travel influencer is about $1,500 per month. This shows that it’s a side hustle rather than a full-time job for many people.

How to get started : This first step is to choose the platform you’re going to use. Instagram, TikTok and YouTube are the most popular choices. Next, you’ll need to start growing your audience by regularly posting content that appeals to travelers, and also by actively engaging with other users.

Having success as an influencer is all about your following. Of course, having a lot of followers is helpful, but you also need to have loyal followers who genuinely care about you and your recommendations. Influencers with smaller audiences can still be extremely valuable to sponsors if their followers are highly receptive. 

Where to learn more : Check out our guides on making money on YouTube and making money on TikTok to learn more.

#3. Freelance Photographer

Summary : As a freelance photographer, you could get paid for photographs used by publications. You might be given an assignment to travel and photograph a specific location, or you could sell or license photos that you’ve already taken. Stock photography websites are a popular option for licensing photos.

How much it pays : According to PayScale, the average freelance photographer makes $44,219 per year.

How to get started : The easiest way to get started is by using the photos you already have. You can submit your travel photos to stock photography sites like Shutterstock and Adobe Stock , or you can work with a stock agency to get more exposure for your photos.

Getting assignments where a client will pay your travel expenses and hire you to photograph a location is pretty rare today. That’s not to say that these opportunities don’t exist, but most companies don’t go that route because there are cheaper alternatives.

Stock travel photography makes it much more affordable for publications to get the photos they need, so they’ll often choose to license stock photos rather than hire a photographer for an assignment. 

Most freelance photographers use a few different revenue streams to generate their income. It might involve licensing stock photos, private licensing deals with companies, selling prints, leading workshops or tour groups, and the occasional assignment from a client. You could also combine it with a few of the other options we’ve already covered, like becoming an influencer or starting a travel blog.

Where to learn more : To learn more, read “ How to Become a Freelance Travel Photographer ” by Ilaria Cazziol.

#4. Remote Jobs

Summary : A growing number of jobs can be done remotely. While these jobs may not incorporate travel into your work, they do give you the flexibility to add as much travel into your lifestyle as you want.

How much it pays : The salary from a remote job will vary depending on several factors like the type of role, requirements of the job, location of the employer and more.

How to get started : There are several job boards ideal for finding remote jobs, including FlexJobs , Remote OK , JustRemote and We Work Remotely .

Finding a remote job is one of the best and most realistic options for many people. You may be able to continue in a job that’s very much like the one you already have, but with the freedom and flexibility to work from anywhere. 

The downside to going this route is your travel expenses won’t be covered, so you’ll need to account for that in your budget. Most employees working full-time remotely outside the U.S. rent on Airbnb. A free option is a house sitting, though that restricts where you can stay.

Where to learn more : This article on Insider shares the stories and details of life as a digital nomad. After reading the article, you’ll have a better idea if this might be a good opportunity for you.

Short-Term & Limited Upside Jobs

If you’re interested in traveling for a short season of your life and not looking for anything to set you up for a long-term career, there are some additional options.

The jobs in this category can help you make some money or provide you a place to stay for a few months or even a few years. They don’t offer much in the way of long-term potential or career development, but they could be the perfect fit for someone who wants to travel for a while before moving on to a more career-oriented position.

#5. Play or Coach a Sport

Summary : If you have athletic abilities or the experience to work as a coach, you might want to consider using this as a way to travel. 

How much it pays : The income varies depending on the location, the level of league you play or coach in, and your skills. On the low end, your income might be enough to cover your living expenses or supplement other income. 

How to get started : Do some research to find opportunities in your sport. Find countries where your sport isn’t extremely popular and look for opportunities there. One World 365 is a good place to start.

The key to finding opportunities to play or coach in another country is to look for where your sport isn’t extremely popular. For example, your skills as a baseball player may not be enough to play professionally in the U.S., but you may be good enough to get paid to play in Europe. 

There are many lower-level pro teams or semi-pro leagues that are actively looking for players. The same can be said about various sports in other countries.

If your playing days are behind you, coaching might be an option. Or if you’re willing to do some coaching as well, you might be able to play and coach in order to make yourself more valuable. BaseballJobsOverseas.com shares the stories of several Americans who’ve found opportunities in European leagues.

Where to learn more : Six Star Pro offers some details for anyone interested in getting paid to play a sport abroad.

#6. Tour Guide/Trip Leader

Summary : If you enjoy being around people, leading tours or trips could be a great opportunity. You might be based in the U.S. and travel with groups, or you could live in a foreign country and lead tours for groups, families or individuals visiting the area.

How much it pays : ZipRecruiter reports that the average international tour guide makes $38,411 per year, but this can vary significantly from job to job.

How to get started : Tour companies like Contiki and One Life Adventures hire tour guides and trip leaders. Of course, with some research, you can find other similar jobs as well.

Working as a tour guide or trip leader can be a lot of fun, but it also comes with plenty of responsibility. You’ll be dealing with people from all walks of life and with different personalities, and need plenty of organizational skills. 

Depending on the job, you may get to travel to many different places or you may be in the same locations repeatedly. Of course, this will have a big impact on your experience with the job and will impact whether it’s a good fit for you.

Where to learn more : To get a better idea of what it’s like to work as a trip leader, read this article on Erin Outdoors : So You Want to Be an Adventure Trip Leader .

#7. Work on a Cruise Ship

Summary : The cruise industry relies on thousands of workers in various roles, many of whom are in it primarily for the travel experiences. 

How much it pays : According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary for a U.S.-based cruise ship worker is $48,404 .

How to get started : Most cruise lines have a jobs or careers section on their website that lists openings. Some examples include Carnival , Royal Caribbean and Norwegian .

If you’ve ever been on a cruise, you know it takes hundreds or thousands of workers to be able to support all of those guests 24 hours a day. This includes entry-level jobs such as dishwashers, bartenders and servers, as well as more specialized jobs such as chefs, photographers and yoga instructors. 

Generally, your room and food will be completely covered and many ships offer things like employee-only bars and activities.

The downside to working on a cruise ship is that you’ll probably work long hours, which doesn’t leave a lot of time for exploring the amazing places you visit.

Where to learn more : The popular travel blog Nomadic Matt published an interview with Wandering Earl about life as a cruise ship employee. It’s a very interesting read and Earl shares an overwhelmingly positive experience of working on cruise ships for 4.5 years. 

#8. Get a Seasonal Job at a Resort

Summary : The travel industry includes millions of seasonal jobs that won’t support you year-round, but they may provide the perfect way for you to spend part of the year in a beautiful location.

How much it pays : The pay will vary depending on a few factors, but most importantly the location of the resort. In many countries the salary might seem very low, but the cost of living will generally be lower as well. 

How to get started : Websites like CoolWorks and Wander Jobs are great places to find seasonal jobs. Alternatively, you could choose a destination where you want to go and research resorts in the area to find opportunities.

Seasonal jobs aren’t going to offer the highest pay, but if you’re looking for a way to travel and a job that earns enough money to get by, this is a possibility you might want to consider. Many seasonal jobs at resorts also provide housing for staff, and meals may be included as well (depending on the resort).

There are opportunities at beach resorts, ski resorts, mountain lodges and more. Although these jobs are seasonal, openings exist in all seasons throughout the year at different locations. If you wanted to, you could work multiple seasonal jobs at different times of the year.

#9. Do Research for Travel Guides

Summary : A job as a researcher for a published travel guide like Lonely Planet involves plenty of travel. It’s a challenging job that involves verifying tedious details, but you’ll get to see a lot of new places.

How much it pays : Most companies hiring for this type of research pay a lump sum. You’ll use that money to cover your travel expenses and keep whatever is left. The less you spend on travel and accommodations, the more you’ll keep.

How to get started : Lonely Planet ’s website offers information for anyone looking to contribute to their guidebook. You could also check the websites of other companies that publish guidebooks .

Travel guides like Lonely Planet provide valuable information for travelers, and they hire researchers to compile new data and verify details from past publications. 

This job involves plenty of travel and you’ll get to see and experience places you would otherwise never visit, but it’s a lot of work.

Simon Sellars, who worked for Lonely Planet said , “I feel one of the biggest misconceptions about Lonely Planet is that the company pays its authors to swan around on holiday and then do a bit of writing as an afterthought. The reality is that you are on your feet for twelve hours a day, during torrential rain or baking heat or whatever testing conditions you’ve parachuted into: coups; insurgencies; dealing with the horror of warm beer in Britain. There’s very little time for actual sightseeing. It’s actually hard work.”

While this job is not for everyone, it could be an ideal fit for someone who wants to visit as many places as possible without spending money out of pocket.

Where to learn more : The New York Times published an interesting article titled “ A Job With Travel but No Vacation .” In the article, you’ll read stories from several people who have held this type of role, giving valuable insight into what it’s really like.

#10. Deliver Cars and Boats

Summary : While it’s not the first travel career that comes to mind, delivering cars or boats might be the right opportunity for you. You’ll get to spend your days on the road, or on the water, rather than sitting at a desk. 

How much it pays : According to Zippia, the average “driveaway” driver makes $43,313 per year.

How to get started : Check the websites of companies in the relocation industry for job opportunities. Auto Driveway is one of the leaders for vehicle relocations and CruiseJobFinder provides information on yacht deliveries. 

It’s a pretty straightforward job and your primary responsibility is simply making a safe delivery. Trips will vary in length, depending on where the car or boat is being delivered to.

One of the nice things about this job is the variety you’ll get. Each trip will be to a different location, so it’s possible to see many new places. On longer trips, you may have time in the evenings or when you’re not driving to see and experience the places you’re passing through.

Where to learn more : CNBC published an article about retirees working as relocation drivers as a way to travel and see the county with low expenses.

#11. Be an Au Pair

Au pairs work as live-in childcare providers for a host family, typically working between 25 and 45 hours per week in exchange for room, board and a weekly or monthly stipend. 

How much it pays: The U.S. government sets a minimum pay rate, which is currently $195.75 per week before taxes. Host families may choose to provide additional compensation to their au pair.

If you’re looking to work outside the U.S., you’ll want to narrow your search to more developed countries, where the pay will be better. Expect to receive free room and board, as well as a small sum of pocket money each week. 

How to get started : Most au pairs are hired through agencies, which both screen applicants and then place them with a family. It’s best to narrow down your search to the countries you’d like to stay in, then find an agency that works within that country. 

Where to learn more : View VeryWell’s guide to the best au pair agencies .

Career Track Travel Jobs

These travel job qualifications, descriptions, compensation packages and career paths might be very similar to traditional jobs in your local area. The difference is that these jobs are done either in another country or involve frequent travel.

By pursuing the opportunities in this section, you won’t sacrifice long-term career opportunities for the sake of a job that involves travel. You also won’t need to have an entrepreneurial outlook, as these are all traditional employment opportunities.

#12. Foreign Service Officer

Summary : Foreign Service Officers are diplomats working for the Department of State. They’re responsible for promoting peace and protecting American citizens in foreign countries. There are about 8,000 FSO positions available around the world.

How much it pays : According to PayScale, the average annual salary for a Foreign Service Officer is $88,544 . How much you’ll make depends on your tenure as well as where you’re stationed.

How to get started : You must be a U.S. citizen to work as a foreign service officer. But one thing to note is that the Department of State hires FSOs of many different ages and career backgrounds. And yes, in many cases, your family can come along with you to your destination.

To be considered, the first step is to register for the Foreign Service Officer Test , which is held periodically throughout the year. The test is notoriously difficult, with an 80% failure rate. If you do pass, there’s an extensive, multi-step interview process.

The Department of State offers five different career tracks for Foreign Service Officers :

• Consular Officers
• Economic Officers
• Management Officers
• Political Officers
• Public Diplomacy Offers

Your responsibility and role will vary greatly depending on which career track you choose. There’s an interactive questionnaire to help you to decide which track is right for you .

Where to learn more : Read through the Department of State’s FSO web page .

#13. Peace Corps Officer

Summary : The Peace Corps is a federal government agency that offers a variety of overseas positions (as well as volunteer opportunities). The career-track jobs are primarily in management or for medical officers, but volunteers — who carry out tasks like teaching and providing social services in some of the poorest nations on earth — are given living allowances as well as a lump-sum stipend after completion of the program (which is currently $10,000).

How much it pays : Peace Corps salaries are set by approved government-wide ranges and vary by position. Salary ranges are provided in each job listing. According to PayScale, the average Peace Corps employee makes $63,000 per year.

How to get started : Most of the opportunities available with the Peace Corps are for volunteer positions . If you’re looking to get paid a more regular salary, there are limited employment opportunities . Only U.S. citizens can be hired for overseas positions with the Peace Corps. 

Volunteer positions last for two years. Jobs with the Peace Corps are time-limited appointments and most employees are able to work a maximum of five years for the agency. As a result, working for the Peace Corps is more of a stepping stone than a long-term career move. 

However, a few years spent working for the Peace Corps will be valuable experience that’s likely to lead to other excellent opportunities in the future. For example, serving two years as a volunteer is a perfect choice if you want to become an FSO.

Where to learn more : The Peace Corps website provides information about positions, benefits, and more.

#14. Work for an NGO

Summary : Non-profit and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) may provide travel opportunities for employees. Depending on the role and the organization you work for, you might be able to experience a lot of different cultures.

NGOs carry out many different tasks — from international economic development to democracy building and everything in between. Their name comes from the fact that they carry out many functions typically associated with government agencies, even though they’re independent organizations. 

How much it pays : The pay varies significantly depending on the position and the country you’re living in and the type of work you’re doing, but you should expect a salary that’s close to — but slightly below — the salary you would command in the private sector for similar work.

How to get started : Finding a job with a non-profit organization is much like any typical job search. You can use any of the major job search websites to find openings. Additionally, websites like DevEx and Idealist are excellent resources.

If you want to work for an NGO overseas, it will be helpful — and in many cases, necessary — for you to be fluent in a second language. 

Where to learn more : “ Put Your Skills to Work in Non-Profit Jobs ” shares some details about what it’s like to work with non-profits in foreign countries.

#15. Flight Attendant

Summary : Working as a flight attendant provides plenty of opportunity for travel. Unlike some other traveling jobs, you’ll also be able to enjoy many of the places you visit as a flight attendant.

How much it pays : According to PayScale, the average flight attendant makes $44,885 annually. 

How to get started : Airline websites are the best place to find job openings. Be aware that it’s extremely competitive and not easy to land a job in this field.

Of course, working as a flight attendant involves travel every day that you’re working. Although there’s plenty of work to be done during the flight, many trips will involve overnight stays — sometimes of more than one night — and you may have some extra time to enjoy the places you’re visiting.

In addition, most airlines allow flight attendants and other employees to fly for free on standby. That means you’ll need to have flexibility and you may not be able to get every flight you want, but when there’s room on the plane, you’ll be able to fly for free (or very cheap). 

One of the downsides to working as a flight attendant is the limited career upside that’s available. If you’re looking for a job that allows you to work your way up the corporate ladder, becoming a flight attendant is not the best fit. The skills and experience you build in the role aren’t directly transferable to other fields, and there’s no obvious “next step.”

Where to learn more : The article “ What it’s REALLY like to be a Delta Airlines flight attendant ” offers a glimpse into the life you might experience if you pursue this career.

#16. Traveling Nurse

Summary : As a traveling nurse, you’ll get the opportunity to travel to specific locations for a few weeks or a few months at a time. The education and requirements are the same as the requirements to be a nurse in hospitals and other settings.

How much it pays : ZipRecruiter reports that the average international travel nurse makes $85,075 per year.

How to get started : In order to work as a traveling nurse you’ll need to be a Registered Nurse (RN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP), or a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).

Traveling nurses usually find jobs through agencies specializing in this field. The agency or employer will often provide housing or a stipend to cover your living expenses during the assignment.

Where to learn more : “ The Road to Becoming a Traveling Nurse ” from AllNursingSchools.com will give you all the information you need about this opportunity.

#17. English Teacher

Summary : There are positions available in many countries around the world to teach English. In general, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree, but not a teaching certification.

How much it pays : According to GoOverseas , the top-paying countries for English teachers pay anywhere from $1,600 to $5,500 per month.

How to get started : The demand for English teachers in many parts of the world is greater than the supply. As a result, there are several businesses and organizations that place Americans in teaching jobs around the globe. Some of these organizations focus on a specific country and others offer placements in multiple countries. 

The best way to get started is to apply through an organization like:

• JET Program USA (Japan)
• Open Book (Thailand)
• English First (China, Russia and Indonesia)

Those are just a few examples, but there are others that focus on opportunities in different parts of the world. In addition, many companies hire remote tutors to teach English online. See our article on the best online tutoring jobs you can do from home to learn more.

Where to learn more : “ 10 Things to Know Before Teaching Abroad ” provides some insight that might be helpful if you’re considering this option.

#18. AmeriCorps Teacher

Summary : AmeriCorps is a government agency offering a wide range of services and programs, including some initiatives related to education. You could work as a teacher and benefit by getting assistance with student loans.

How much it pays : According to Indeed , most AmeriCorps teachers make about $1,400 to $1,500 per month. However, that does not include benefits related to student loan forbearance while you’re working, or assistance paying off your student loans.

How to get started : The Urban Teachers website provides additional information about the opportunity.

Working as an AmeriCorps teacher won’t allow you to travel internationally, but it will almost certainly involve living and working in a part of the U.S. that you’d never experience otherwise. For example, Urban Teachers is an AmeriCorps program that places teachers in urban schools throughout the country.

AmeriCorp teaching assignments usually last for 10 to 12 months and can be done as you’re completing your education. You’ll receive a stipend that’s intended to cover your living expenses, and you’ll get assistance with your student loan debt (more than $12,000 over two years). 

Where to learn more : Study.com offers information about the AmeriCorps Inspired Teacher Certification Program .

Bonus: Get Free (or Nearly Free) Travel

The opportunities in this section won’t come with a regular paycheck, but there can be some perks like free accommodations.

#19. Mystery Shop at Resorts

Summary : Free stays at luxury resorts might seem unrealistic, but it’s actually possible through some mystery shopping jobs . 

How much it pays : The details vary depending on the assignment and the company you’re working for. Typically, your expenses are reimbursed and you may receive modest additional pay for your time. The primary benefit is free travel and free stays at great resorts and locations.

How to get started : You can apply for work with companies like Coyle and Kantar that offer mystery shopping in the travel and hospitality industry.

Mystery shopping is a popular way to earn a little bit of extra money. Gigs in your local area may be fun as a side hustle, but many people don’t realize there are opportunities to travel as a mystery shopper.

It’s important to note that these jobs are in high demand and they’re not easy to get. As you can imagine, it’s not hard for companies to find people interested in working as a traveling mystery shopper.

Your job will involve observing the conditions and service provided by the hotel or resort staff, and writing a detailed report. It doesn’t involve working around the clock, so you’ll have free time to enjoy the places you stay, but it is work and it does require some responsibility. 

Where to learn more : Be sure to check our guide: Mystery Shopper Jobs: A Complete Beginner’s Guide to Secret Shopping . The article provides an excellent introduction to the role of a mystery shopper and some specific companies in the industry, including Coyle.

#20. Work on Organic Farms

Summary : If you’re interested in experiencing life in another part of the world, you could work on an organic farm. Depending on the arrangement, you may or may not be paid.

How much it pays : With World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF), no money is exchanged between the workers and hosts. You’ll get a place to stay and food to eat, but you won’t be paid and you’ll need to pay for your own transportation and personal expenses.

How to get started : The WWOOF website lists opportunities throughout the world. Transitions Abroad also provides information about similar roles.

Working on an organic farm could be the ideal way to learn something new while getting free room and board in another country. Farmers obviously need help, and organizations like WWOOF make it easy to find opportunities around the world.

Where to learn more : WWOOF’s website provides plenty of information about the program, how it works, and what to expect.

#21. Staff Festivals Across Europe

Summary : There are countless festivals across Europe, and they all need workers in order to function. Most of the opportunities in this category compensate in ways other than cash.

How much it pays : Typically, you’ll be compensated with a free place to stay (probably a tent), as well as free food and free drinks. You’re certainly not going to set yourself up for early retirement with this job, but for something short-term, you might be sold on the free drinks.

How to get started : Stoke Travel and Hotbox Events both provide details about some opportunities. Of course, you can find more possibilities by researching specific festivals or other companies that provide staffing.

If you love to meet new people and have fun, working at a festival may be a good choice. While free drinks might sound amazing, you’re not going to be able to pay bills (including the cost of traveling there) with them. Unfortunately, this isn’t the right opportunity for anything other than a short period of time, unless you’re able to land one of the paid jobs to work as a festival organizer. 

However, if you’re already traveling across Europe, you may want to look into opportunities to work at festivals as a way to get the perks. If you have an interest in attending festivals anyway, working can be the perfect way to get the experience at no cost.

Where to learn more : You can read more about what it’s really like to work at festivals in “ How to Get an Epic Job at Oktoberfest .”

#22. Volunteer

Summary : There are many opportunities to volunteer your services in order to see and experience new places. If you’re in a position where you can afford to have no income for a while, volunteering can be fun, educational and rewarding.

How much it pays : Nothing. You’ll be a volunteer, so you won’t be paid. However, in most cases you’ll have a host to provide you with a place to stay at no cost.

How to get started : Workaway.info is the perfect place to start, with over 50,000 opportunities listed. HelpX is another great site where you’ll find volunteer opportunities.

What do you love about traveling? If meeting new people and experiencing other cultures (in a way that tourists don’t) are at the top or your list, volunteering may be an ideal fit for you. Many volunteer opportunities are in places that tourists don’t usually see or experience.

You’ll provide some sort of work to the host in exchange for accommodations. The work will vary depending on the arrangement, but there are a wide variety of opportunities available.

These arrangements are typically short-term, which means you’ll get to experience a new place for a while, and then move on. 

Where to learn more : The Wokaway.info blog publishes traveler stories that can help you get a feel for what the experience of a volunteer is like.

Get Paid to Travel: Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are a lot of different ways to make money while traveling. If you love to visit new places and meet people from other cultures, there are legit options available.

However, not all travel-related jobs offer the same perks and not all of them are appropriate for the same type of people.

Be sure to consider things like:

• Your long-term career goals.
• Your strengths and weaknesses.
• The level of flexibility that you want.
• The travel frequency that would be ideal for you .
• The amount of money you need to make.

Based on these details, you should be able to identify the options from this list that would be the best fit for you.

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What is a 'babymoon'? How about a 'sleepcation'? These 8 travel terms make me roll my eyes

Every once in a while, I see something travel-related that makes me cringe — people barefoot on planes, tourists with selfie sticks and, most recently, an influx of nonsensical and unnecessary words to describe different types of trips.

Enter: "sleepcation." Seriously, it's a thing. You'll probably sigh as deeply as I did when I found out what it was.

Why do marketers insist on creating cutesy terms for things that already have names?

In fairness, a term like "glamping" (camping but with certain amenities that make it more glamorous) makes sense because it sounds like the original word: "camping."

"Staycation" (when you take time off to stay home and do nothing or visit places nearby) also works because it rhymes with "vacation" — a word that, for decades, has sufficed to describe types of leisure travel that may or may not take you far away from home.

Now, it seems we have new jargon born from slapping "-cation" or "-moon" on the ends of words and calling them trends. Speaking of being born, don't even get me started on "babymoon." The whole thing is out of hand. In the infamous words of Regina George from "Mean Girls": "Stop trying to make 'fetch' happen."

Here's a quick rundown of some of the made-up travel terms that give me, as the kids say, "the ick."

What is a 'babymoon'?

A babymoon is the trip an expecting couple takes to spend time together before their baby arrives (or, possibly, to mourn the loss of their free time, disposable income and privacy).

What is 'bleisure' travel?

The word itself comes from a combination of "business" and "leisure." It indicates that you're either tacking on a few days of paid time off onto a business trip or bringing non-colleagues — like friends or family members — with you for the ride. This has become increasingly prevalent as remote work has enabled longer trips than used to be standard.

What is a 'buddymoon'?

A buddymoon is a honeymoon where friends tag along. To me, this just sounds like a weird way to say "honeymoon where you have no alone time whatsoever."

What is a 'digital nomad'?

A digital nomad is someone who can work from anywhere, including remote destinations, and changes locations frequently to do so. As long as they have a Wi-Fi connection and a host of electronics, they're set to be on a constant workcation. (See below.)

What is a 'sleepcation'?

A sleepcation is a vacation a person takes for the purpose of finding a good night's sleep. Imagine paying money to accomplish what you should, in theory, be able to do at home in your bed. The concept is almost as ridiculous as the word itself.

What is a 'travel curator'?

A travel curator is someone who travelers pay for customized travel planning services. Essentially, it's a travel agent with a fancy name. Other aliases include "travel advisers" and "travel designers."

What is 'voluntourism'?

Voluntourism is traveling for the combination of both pleasure (tourism) and volunteer opportunities. It can include everything from medical and conservation work to teaching abroad. The term is silly, but the premise behind it is noble — as long as participants are actually helping, that is.

Related: How to earn a free night in Hawaii by giving back to the community

What is a 'workcation'?

Although similar to bleisure travel, a workcation is different in that the travel isn't for business purposes. It's for pleasure, but you work while you're there. A workcation can be something you take as a one-off or, if you're a digital nomad (see above), something almost constant or indefinite.

Bottom line

Some of these terms have been adopted more widely into the travel vernacular; others struggle to take hold. What they all have in common, though, is that they were coined by marketers trying to generate buzz around certain types of trips or to make things sound fancier than they are.

But remember: These trips aren't necessarily what everyone makes them out to be simply because they have their own made-up words. Moving forward, just call them vacations.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a first-time or frequent traveler
• Best travel credit cards
• Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

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Did You Make Your Connecting Flight? You May Have A.I. to Thank.

Airlines are using artificial intelligence to save fuel, keep customers informed and hold connecting flights for delayed passengers. Here’s what to expect.

By Julie Weed

Last month in Chicago, a United Airlines flight to London was ready to depart, but it was still waiting for 13 passengers connecting from Costa Rica. The airline projected they’d miss the flight by seven minutes. Under normal circumstances, they’d all be scrambling to rebook.

But thanks to a new artificial-intelligence-powered tool called ConnectionSaver, the jet was able to wait for them — their checked bags, too — and still arrive in London on time. The system also sent text messages to the late-arriving passengers and the people on the waiting jet to explain what was happening.

A.I. still might not be able to find space for your carry-on, but it could help put an end to the 40-gate dash — sprinting to catch your connecting flight before the door slams shut — as well as other common travel headaches.

It’s not just United. Alaska Airlines , American Airlines and others have been working to develop new A.I. capabilities that could make flying easier for passengers. The carriers are also using the technology to reduce costs and streamline operations, including saving fuel, said Helane Becker, an airline industry analyst for the investment bank TD Cowen . Although many of the airlines are developing their programs independently, a successful innovation by any carrier could possibly become an industry standard.

A.I. is poised to change almost every aspect of the customer flying experience, from baggage tracking to personalized in-flight entertainment, said Jitender Mohan, who works with travel and hospitality clients at the technology consulting company WNS .

Saving fuel and frustration

A.I. has been helping Alaska Airlines dispatchers plan more efficient routes since 2021. “It’s like Google maps, but in the air,” explained Vikram Baskaran, vice president for information technology services at the carrier.

Two hours before a flight, the system reviews weather conditions, any airspace that will be closed, and all commercial and private flight plans registered with the Federal Aviation Administration, to suggest the most efficient route. The A.I. takes in “an amount of information no human brain could process,” said Pasha Saleh, the corporate development director and a pilot for Alaska.

In 2023, about 25 percent of Alaska flights used this system to shave a few minutes off flight times. Those efficiencies added up to about 41,000 minutes of flying time and half a million gallons of fuel saved, Mr. Baskaran said.

On the ground, American Airlines and others are working on an A.I.-powered system American calls Smart Gating — sending arriving aircraft to the nearest available gate with the shortest taxiing time, and if the scheduled arrival gate is in use, quickly determining the best alternate gate. All this could mean fewer frustrating minutes spent waiting on the tarmac.

American introduced Smart Gating at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport in 2021 and now employs it at six airports, including Chicago O’Hare and Miami International. The airline estimates it saves 17 hours a day in taxi time and 1.4 million gallons of jet fuel a year.

Mr. Mohan said that using A.I. as a virtual parking attendant could save up to 20 percent of taxiing time, with the highest benefits seen at the largest airports.

Faster and better customer service

Rapidly evolving generative A.I. — think ChatGPT — is helping airlines communicate with passengers better. At United, a companywide challenge last year yielded a plan to make texts sent to fliers more specific about what’s causing delays. Passengers can get frustrated when flights are delayed with no explanation, said Jason Birnbaum, United’s chief information officer.

But tracking the details required, composing an appropriate message and sending it to the right people for 5,000 flights a day would be too much for the staff to handle, Mr. Birnbaum said. Generative A.I. can process all that data and create messages tailored to conditions. For example, passengers booked on a January United flight from San Francisco to Tucson received this text message, along with a new departure time and an apology: “Your inbound aircraft is arriving late due to airport runway construction in San Francisco that limited the number of arrivals and departures for all airlines earlier.”

Having a more detailed explanation can calm travelers’ nerves. Jamie Larounis, a travel industry analyst who flies about 150,000 miles a year, recalled receiving text messages last summer explaining that a storm and a related crew-scheduling problem had delayed his flight from Chicago. “Getting a specific reason for the delay made me feel like the airline had things under control,” he said.

Generative A.I. is also good at summarizing text, making it a powerful tool for wading through emails. Last year, Alaska was among the carriers that began using A.I. to handle customer messages more efficiently. The airline’s system “reads” each email and summarizes the issues raised.

“We used to read first in first out, handling the requests as they came in,” said Mr. Baskaran, but now the system helps prioritize emails. For example, an urgent request involving an upcoming flight may take precedence over a complaint about a past one.

The system also helps a human agent decide how to respond, such as offering the customer a voucher, and it may draft an initial written response. “The person makes the decision, but it’s streamlined,” Mr. Baskaran said.

For all the benefits A.I. promises to airlines and passengers, the technology still has some shortcomings. For one, it doesn’t always deliver accurate information. In 2022, an Air Canada chatbot incorrectly promised a traveler that if he booked a full-fare flight to a relative’s funeral, he could receive a bereavement fare after the fact. When he filed a small-claims case, Air Canada tried to argue that the bot was its own separate entity, “responsible for its own actions,” but a tribunal found Air Canada responsible and ordered it to pay about $800 in damages and fees.

Still, as A.I. develops and airlines race to find more uses for it, passengers could see even more benefits. “As a customer and a business person, this is one of the biggest technology disruptions in the last five to eight years,” Mr. Mohan said.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article, in a quotation from Vikram Baskaran, vice president for information technology services at Alaska Airlines, misstated the number of gallons of fuel an artificial-intelligence-powered planning system saved the airline in 2023. It was half a million, not half a billion.

How we handle corrections

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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5 Ways To Make Money — Maybe Even Become Rich — If You Love Traveling the World

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20 Years Helping You Live Richer

Reviewed by Experts

Trusted by Millions of Readers

Living the dream isn’t necessarily about owning a big house and fancy new car — sometimes it’s about being able to travel the world without worrying about breaking the bank. 

And for some it’s about traveling the world and padding your bank account as you go. According to experts, it’s more than possible to build a successful career around your love of traveling — all it takes is some strategic planning.

Echo Wang, CEO and founder of Cool Travel Vibes , recommends investing in ventures you can manage remotely. 

“This could be anything from creating and selling online courses to building a blog that earns revenue through advertising,” she said. “The key is to choose something you’re passionate about and can develop before you hit the road.

“This way, you’ll have a portable income stream that fuels your adventures.”

Below are some more recommended ways to become rich if you love traveling the world .

Gain Local Experience To Start Your Own Business

“I believe that one of the best ways to make money is to learn from others, and the best thing is to learn from different cultures every time we travel,” said Mariana Mendoza, certified translator and interpreter at Vibe Adventures .

“For example, there is a lot of tourism focused on eco-friendly travel on the beaches of Mexico — specifically on the beaches of Oaxaca such as Zipolite, Mazunte, Zicatela and Puerto Escondido.” 

Mendoza continued: “What I have been able to do is to learn from the artisans in the area and get involved in workshops to create bracelets, necklaces, etc. All with unique instruments that the locals provide or agree to share. In this way, you can gain experience and start your own business with the knowledge of a local.

“The best thing about this is that this type of activity, tours and workshops with locals can be done anywhere in the world.”

Become a Travel Content Creator

“Leverage your travels to create helpful content as a travel creator,” said Danielle Desir Corbett, personal finance expert and creator of The Thought Card . “Whether you sell your photos on stock platforms, craft insightful articles as a freelance writer or travel blogger, or produce captivating videos or a binge-worthy podcast, you have the power to earn an income while sharing your unique travel perspective with others online.

Corbett continued: “As a full-time travel podcaster, my favorite income streams include affiliate income, where I recommend products and services I genuinely use and earn a commission on each sale. I also enjoy partnering with tourism boards, hotels, and attractions on sponsored content and ambassadorship work.”

Samantha Firth, CEO and founder at Travelling King , has equally found travel content to be a great way to build wealth while abroad.

“As someone who has been a travel blogger for the past 12 years,” she said, “I’ve discovered firsthand that blogging is a fantastic way to earn money while traveling.”

By finding a unique angle or niche within the travel space, she said, you can create valuable content that attracts readers and generates passive income.

“Additionally, becoming an influencer on platforms like Instagram or TikTok can be incredibly lucrative,” she added. “These platforms allow you to share your travel experiences with a wide audience, engaging followers through visual and interactive content, which in turn can open up numerous monetization opportunities.”

Create Businesses That Sponsor the Travel Lifestyle

Will Hatton, founder of the travel site The Broke Backpacker , said becoming a small business owner and entrepreneur for companies that sponsor the travel lifestyle is one of the best ways to make money while living abroad. 

“As the owner of a travel site and an international hostel, I have seen great success advising and hosting travelers who come from all over the globe,” Hatton said. “I started on my own adventures over 15 years ago and quickly realized that I wanted to be my own boss, make money to continue traveling, and interact with like-minded people.

“I started my travel site before I opened my hostel in Bali, where I currently live most of the time, so I gained quite a following, and that paid off when I had people to fill the beds as I first started.”

Hatton continued: “When my travel site started, we were making around $20,000 per year as a company; but, as it blossomed, we quickly reached the six-figure mark before the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, we remain there in revenue between the site and the hostel, which gives all of us more money to pursue better travels and share our findings with our followers.”

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Android Police

How to use google gemini to plan your vacation.

Use Gemini for a stress-free trip-planning experience

Planning a vacation can be as overwhelming as it is exciting, given everything you need to do, from booking flights and accommodations to finding activities that match your interests. To simplify this process, take advantage of Gemini's (formerly known as Google Bard) new set of capabilities. The best part is that you can access the platform through your laptop or Chromebook or use it while you're on the go using your flagship or budget Android phone or iPhone.

How does Gemini make traveling easier?

Gemini, an artificial intelligence platform similar to ChatGPT, is now integrated with various Google services, like Gmail, Google Maps, and Google Flights. Here's how to best use Gemini's capabilities to make trip planning easier.

Check the weather

Gemini's integration with Google Search allows the tool to provide you with real-time information. You can check the weather conditions at your destination and pack appropriately.

Ask for a suggested packing list based on the weather

Not sure what to wear this time of year or want to blend in with the locals? If you're traveling to a new destination and are unfamiliar with the dressing norms of the locals, ask Gemini to generate a list of outfit ideas and other accessories you should pack.

Look up real-time flights for your preferred dates

While you're at it, you can quickly look up flights to your destination and back. This simplifies the process of searching for flights and comparing the prices and durations.

Get a list of hotels for your stay

If you're unsure where to stay during your trip, ask Gemini to create a list of hotels in the area. Gemini's suggestions include names and photos of several hotels, along with each hotel's star rating, a brief description of what you can expect, and the price per night. Use this as a starting point to compare your options and make an informed decision.

Ask for suggested activities in the area

You can ask Gemini to suggest activities you might enjoy during your stay. Gemini tailors its recommendations to your preferences, if any, and suggests events that align with your travel dates.

Request a list of relevant YouTube videos about the destination

If you're traveling to an unfamiliar place and want to know more about things to do in the area, local customs, and not-so-popular attractions, ask Gemini to curate a list of relevant YouTube videos about the destination.

Look up currency conversion rates

If you're traveling abroad, budgeting before you leave is crucial. Gemini can make estimating your expenses and how much money to bring along with you easier by providing real-time currency conversion rates and listing potential expenses you might incur while traveling.

Check out local dining options

Want to enjoy the local fare while you're traveling? Gemini can help you discover the best dining options in the area. You can even specify the type of cuisine you'd like to try to get more relevant results.

Get directions to places

When you have a tentative idea of the places you'd like to visit, Gemini can help you plan your vacation better by giving directions to various places. This can help you map out the most efficient route for your outings and maximize your vacation days.

Here's how to prompt Gemini, according to Google

Be sure to double-check gemini's responses.

Gemini is a powerful AI tool that generates fairly accurate results due to its integration with other Google services. Still, it's best to verify the information it provides, particularly regarding things like local customs, potential expenses, and health advisories.

Make the switch to Gemini

While Gemini has limitations compared to Google Assistant, and you should wait to switch from the latter , using the AI platform with Assistant can make travel planning easier and more straightforward.

Human-sounding AI can plan, help book your travel. But can you trust it?

It wasn’t so long ago that travelers planned trips without the internet.

“Back in the day, our parents used to go to these travel agents and really kind of express what they were looking for and what kind of vacation they wanted,” said Saad Saeed, co-founder and CEO of Layla, an AI travel planner whose website launched this year. “Slowly, we kind of acclimatized ourselves to start using these search boxes, clicks, these forms and filters.”

Artificial intelligence-driven tools like Layla can now turn back the clock on that experience, engaging with users almost like humans to customize travel plans with lightning speed plus all the resources of the web. But does AI actually make travel planning easier and can it compare to human expertise? 

Yes and no. Here’s why.

Can AI actually understand us?

It can try. 

“What are you personally looking for in this trip and what do you want out of it?” asked Saeed. “Do you want to reconnect with your partner, for example, or do you want to just feel some adventure and thrill?” 

A human travel agent may ask a series of questions to understand a client’s needs. So can generative AI , which picks up on keywords. Mindtrip, an AI planner launched publicly on May 1, has an actual travel quiz that asks users to rank priorities like “Is your ideal vacation day an exhilarating adventure or a relaxing break?” using sliding scales.

“What we get at the end of that quiz, using the AI, is a really customized description,” explained  Mindtrip Founder and CEO Andy Moss. That then informs what the AI suggests to the traveler. 

Informed suggestions can save users time in narrowing down destinations and experiences, as well as  introduce places users may never have discovered on their own.

AI travel planning is here: How to use it to plan your next vacation and what you should know first

Can AI fully replace humans?

No. Layla may sound human, using conversational phrases like “I've got three cozy nests that won't make your wallet cry.”

“She has a personality. We try to make her funny and so on, where it's really that friend that can get to know you and then recommend you the perfect stuff,” Saeed said.

But part of Layla’s expertise comes from the real-life experiences of some 1,600 travel content creators  the Berlin-based platform has partnered with. Their videos and insights can give users a richer picture of what to expect.

Mindtrip also leans on human expertise, having tapped a limited group of travel influencers for curated content with plans to eventually open it up so anyone can share their travel itineraries and experiences with the public.

Story continues below.

Is AI a threat to privacy?

With all the rapid advancements in AI in just the past year, some users are wary of its safety .

“Data privacy is definitely one of our biggest concerns, and we ensure that none of the personal identifiable information ever reaches basically the model providers. That will all stay with us,” Layla’s Saeed said. “None of their personally identifiable data can ever be basically used to profile them or basically go into any of these systems, which are training these different models.”

Booz Allen Hamilton, the nation’s largest provider of AI to the federal government , focuses heavily on ethical and  secure AI, as well as adhering to the government’s policies on data collection. 

“We collect as little information as we can in order to provide a secure transaction,” said Booz Allen Hamilton Senior Vice President Will Healy, who heads up their recreation work, including Recreaton.gov , the government’s central travel planning site for public lands like national parks. “We don't save your searches. We don't save your credit card data. We're very careful about the data that we store.”

Yoon Kim, an assistant professor in MIT’s Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Department and Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory , isn’t too worried about security in the initial brainstorming stages of travel planning with AI.

“I don't see, at this point, how AI-generated advice is spiritually different from travel guide articles that you might read on certain websites,” he said. “Travel planning is one really nice use case of these models, as narrow as it is, because it's a scenario in which you want to be given ideas but you don't actually need to commit to them.” 

What’s next for AI? 

Things could be different, though, if AI is used beyond trip planning. Deloitte sees AI being woven into all parts of travel.

“There is an opportunity for a real engine – I'm going to just use a generic term, engine – that allows you to search and pull it all together and to sort based off of your personal reasons for prioritization and then not stopping at ‘hey give me a list’ or ‘here's what to do,’ but ‘OK, now go create my itinerary, help me book it, track it all the way through that travel process,” said Matt Soderberg, principal, U.S. airlines leader for Deloitte. 

Deloitte’s Facing travel’s future report, released in early April, identifies seven stages where AI can intersect with a trip, from personalized recommendations based on past travel, online purchases and tendencies to day-of issues to a post-travel pulse, where travelers may be asked about their experience and start thinking about future trips. 

“When you solve across all of those, that's going to be the Holy Grail,” Soderberg said. “The difficulty is that doesn't all sit in one place. And so how do you get the right information and the right data to bring all of that together for a single experience for the consumer? And who's going to own that?”

Layla and Mindtrip, among others, already offer booking through partners like Booking.com. “It's all about making things actionable,” Moss said.

But for now, if issues come up mid-trip, AI tools can’t fix them like humans can. Humans still have to get involved.