We are going on a big family vacation, like we do every year with my husbands brothers families, and I wanted to share the things at the dells that we have on our to-do list.
I recently went to San Diego for vacation and here are the highlights of that trip! I've included restaurants, scenery places, and entertainment as part of this list
After spending a lot of money on backpacks that fell apart, zippers that failed, and accessories that didn't perform as promised, I finally found things that work. If it's on this list, I am currently using it. If I'm not using it or have replaced it, I'll make some notes for you.
If you're overwhelmed by the thought of packing for an international trip, don't be! I'm an over packer but after a week aboard, these are the items that were indispensable and essential to my trip!
I've lived in the City Beautiful for years so here's your guide to all things Orlando, in AND out of the theme parks! Good eats, sweet treat and plenty of things to do in every district of the city.
Having a Go Bag packed and prepped for any last minute plans is something that has helped me feel like I can be spontaneous without the fear of being completely unprepared! If you’re like me and can’t be caught dead without some essentials (lip balm, hand sanitizer, a snack and a face wipe at the very LEAST) here is some inspiration. Throw your top picks in a bag, keep it in your closet, and be ready when opportunity strikes.
Quick tip: I like to keep daytime necessities in one bag and overnight items in another so I can quickly grab one or both as needed when I leave!
I'm a travel agent that specializes in Disney and Universal Studios, and I'm an Annual Passholder for Disney World. I've been to Disney so much and I"m definitely pro. Learn from my mistakes and from the things that really worked for me. There are a lot of factors when it comes to going to a theme park all day - especially with kids, in the Orlando heat, or in the chilly weather of Disneyland in the winter. I'm your gal! Please feel free to share what works for you - we're all different and we all have preferences. Being unprepared can cause for a rough day in the parks, so let me help you avoid. My job is to help you have the most magical time!!
Want an easy, relaxed stay in North Point, Hong Kong? Think local markets, trams and everyday Hong Kong life. These hotels are comfy, simple to compare and great for short breaks or longer visits.
After dozens of Epcot days as Central Florida locals, we've cracked the code on skipping lines, saving money, and eating well around World Showcase. These are the tips, hacks, and gear we swear by - from the International Gateway trick to free soda at Club Cool.
What I loved about Admiralty, Hong Kong was how easily a harbour walk, a quiet garden, a wonderfully odd staircase and a comfortable stay could fit into the same trip. I chose these places for the little details that made the area feel memorable rather than merely convenient, from skyline views to Disney touches and peaceful green corners.
I have just as much fun planning a trip, as I do going on a trip! This is a list of things I think you actually need, mixed in with some extras that are just nice to have. I’m going to Disneyworld again next month and will be adding more I’m sure!
I put this together for a Le Havre trip that mixes striking postwar architecture, sea air, thoughtful history, and genuinely convenient places to stay. It is a deliberately balanced shortlist: a few quick stops, a couple of slower walks, and hotels that make a good base for exploring Normandy.
If I were planning another trip… I'd return to Sha Tin, Hong Kong for its peaceful riverside corners, easygoing family stops, rewarding hikes, and a wonderfully varied mix of places to stay. I especially enjoyed how this selection balances quiet local moments with playful attractions and comfortable bases, so it feels thoughtfully chosen rather than simply collected.
Planning a Guadalajara trip and wondering if Tlaquepaque is worth the detour? If you're the kind of traveler who skips resort gift shops but loses hours in artisan workshops, this village will wreck your luggage allowance. I spent three full days wandering every cobblestone street so you can zero in on what's actually worth your time and pesos.
Orlando's comedy scene is bigger than tourists realize - a legendary improv lab downtown, a national touring club on I-Drive, dinner shows in Kissimmee, and open mics where the next headliner is working out material for free. Here's where to laugh in Central Florida, whether you have twenty dollars or a big night out budget.
If you're going on vacation with your little ones, here are the things that have made MY life easier...Thank me later. *This list may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them—at no extra cost to you.*
Every Saturday morning used to look the same — scrolling through my phone for an hour, giving up, and ending up at the same brunch spot. If you're someone who wants to actually explore your own region but never knows where to start, these custom maps and planning tools finally broke me out of that rut. Took me way too long to figure this out, so here you go.
Albuquerque, NM is my hometown. I'm so lucky! When friends visit, these are the places I want them to see. Some are common knowledge, others are hidden gems. The annual Balloon Fiesta is amazing, but you need things to do the rest of the day so check out some of these spots.
Traveling full time has taught me a thing or two! These are some of the things I would recommend to anyone considering any long distance car traveling.
This is a list of my favorite travel destinations. It includes places I have stayed, and things I like to do while visiting those destinations. Budget friendly travel.
Hubby travels year round on the road and in the air while I travel several times a year to see him, family, and vacation. This list curates all of the items that help our trips feel more organized and filled with ease.
Passing through Amarillo? Whether you're stopping for a quick overnight stay or spending a day exploring, this list is packed with the best places to eat, must-see attractions, unique roadside stops, and travel essentials to make your trip unforgettable. From iconic Texas barbecue and legendary steakhouses to Route 66 gems, quirky photo ops, and family-friendly activities, these are the stops worth adding to your itinerary.
Perfect for:
Route 66 road trips
Texas travel itineraries
RV and camper travelers
Family vacations
Weekend getaways
Hidden gems in Amarillo
Foodie stops and local favorites
Cross-country road trips
✨ Whether you're just passing through or making Amarillo your destination, these are the places and products that will help you make the most of your West Texas adventure. 🤠🌵🚗
If you're visiting Fairhope with kids—or you just need somewhere to get everyone out of the house—I've got you covered. These are the places my family actually enjoys, not just the ones that look pretty on Instagram. Think playgrounds where kids can burn off enough energy to actually sleep that night, ice cream that's worth the sticky fingers, walks with gorgeous bay views, and little downtown shops that somehow convince your child they absolutely need one more stuffed animal. Basically... this is Fairhope through the eyes of a local mom who's learned that the best outings include snacks, bathrooms nearby, and somewhere to sit while the kids entertain themselves for a few minutes. Happy adventuring, 𝓐𝓷𝓭𝓻𝓮𝓪 🌿
Overstuffed suitcases, gate-check fees, and that moment where you sit on your bag praying the zipper holds. If you travel with way too much stuff and refuse to check a bag, this is the exact gear that got me down to one carry on for a full seven-day trip. Took me six trips and a lot of wasted money to figure this out so you don't have to.
If you're planning any particular trips, these books can help you plan your trip out, find things to do, keep you free from boredom and reflect on your travels afterwards.
Planning a Dades Gorge road trip and hike but drowning in packing lists that assume you're summiting Everest? I drove the hairpin switchbacks and hiked the gorge floor with a rental sedan and one carry-on. Here's exactly what I actually used, nothing I regretted hauling, so you can pack smarter before your Morocco trip.
It may seem boring here but that's because you don't know where the good stuff is 😉 If you're planning a trip to Southern Oregon this is the list to check. If you have a friend coming to visit and you live here, this is also the list for you (we have to prove we're way better than Portland)
ever since i got in south korea, i’ve been completely obsessed with the cafe scene in korea. there’s seriously one on every corner, and each one has its own vibe — some are cozy and quiet, others are super aesthetic and perfect for photos, and a few just have that feeling you can’t explain. i started this list to keep track of all the cafes i’ve either fallen in love with or can’t wait to visit. it’s for anyone who loves spending hours chatting with friends over iced lattes, trying out new desserts, or just sitting by the window watching the city go by. i wanted a little space to collect those “must go” spots that make you feel warm, inspired, and maybe a little romantic too. so if you’re cafe hopping around korea — welcome, you’re in the right place ☁️
If I were visiting again… I'd use Phrom Phong, Bangkok, Thailand as a base for peaceful parks, beautiful cultural escapes, lively evenings, and a comfortable place to sleep. I especially love this mix because it balances Bangkok's grand sights with smaller moments of calm, and includes stays suited to everything from a polished city break to a simple solo trip.
I love to travel, a passion of mine that came to life when I studied abroad in Glasgow, Scotland. I spent four months in Glasgow, visiting iconic landmarks, finding hidden gems, and discovering the best places to eat! These are all places I visited in Glasgow, often multiple times, and I can't recommend them enough. For more detailed information about my study abroad experience in Glasgow and the other places I've traveled to, subscribe to my Substack Thoughts Stained with Ink.
This 8‑night Greece guide takes you from the ancient streets of Athens to the sun‑drenched Cyclades, hopping through Santorini, Paros, and Milos. Inside, you’ll find fabulous restaurant recs, can’t‑miss activities, and hotel recommendations that balance Greek charm and comfort. Whether you’re planning your first island‑hopping adventure or refining the perfect itinerary, this guide brings together the best of Athens, island life, and everything in between.
I will be adventuring on my boat in the Gulf Islands in British Columbia and the San Juan Islands in Washington. These are some of the places I will be visiting, some of the items I need to journey safely and some of the highlights I expect along the way.
For my husband's 30th birthday, we took a big trip with all his siblings and their spouses to San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua for a week! It was such a fun trip and a really affordable way to get away!
I like keeping a trip flexible, and this list fits that idea nicely. It brings together coastal views, relaxing walks, and memorable local spots and hotel options for enjoying the destination at your own pace.
Everything I pack, love, and recommend for travel - plus a small tip with each one so you know why it’s worth the space in your carry-on. Tried, tested, and TSA-approved.
Curated picks to pair with Maui Revealed: The Ultimate Guidebook for a richer, better-organized Hawaii adventure. These guidebooks, maps, and journals help you navigate multiple islands, track snorkel spots, and preserve memories from your trip.
I’d keep this list saved for the trip. It brings together art, culture, and interesting places to explore, with hotel options that make it easy to relax between exploring, sightseeing, and enjoying the local atmosphere.
Nobody tells you that showing up to a Budapest bathhouse with the wrong swimsuit, no flip-flops, and zero clue about etiquette is a fast track to embarrassment. If you're planning your first thermal bath experience in Hungary and don't want to spend the first hour confused, cold, or underdressed — here's everything I figured out the hard way so you can skip the awkward learning curve.
As our economy inflates here in Hawai'i, it is getting harder and harder to enjoy simple pleasures without having to sell your kidneys. Okay, that last part might not be extremely accurate, but you get my point. This list says cute date ideas, but you can totally do these as a single person, too. I'll be adding to this list as I find more practically free activities and if you have suggestions, please feel free to share them in the comments.
Planning a Luxor trip and wondering if those alabaster factory visits on the West Bank are worth your time or just tourist traps? I spent three days wandering workshops between the Valley of the Kings and Medinet Habu, talking to artisans and buying way too much. This is everything I learned, bought, and wish I had known before I went.
My go-to travel essentials for every trip. From extra comfort, to all the must-have gadgets, to things to keep the kids entertained, I never leave home without these items. I pack everything I might need (and then some) to ensure I'm fully prepared for any adventure!
Even though it’s almost every park in SF, check out my favorite parks to enjoy in the city. I usually use my parks to soak in some sun, but we have some hefty spaces with good trails as well.
Cruise packing is its own special kind of Tetris! This list is packed with travel gear, cabin must-haves, gadgets, and little comforts that help make life onboard easier. Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, let's make packing one less thing to stress about!
Road trips, camping weekends, van life, tailgates. If you've ever opened a cooler to find your food floating in warm water and melted ice, you already know the frustration. This list is for anyone who lives out of their vehicle part-time or full-time and wants actual refrigeration, not a glorified bucket of ice. Took me two summers and three returned coolers to land on gear that actually works.
I like keeping a trip flexible, and this list fits that idea nicely. It brings together green spaces, scenic views, and beautiful places to wander and hotel options for enjoying the destination at your own pace.
You should go to Kona, Hawaii for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and laid-back island vibe. It's perfect for snorkeling, coffee tours, volcano hikes, and unforgettable sunsets. Kona blends natural beauty with rich Hawaiian culture—ideal for both adventure and relaxation.
It was the kind of place where… grand landmarks, peaceful green spaces, lively streets, and welcoming stays all come together in one memorable corner of Bangkok. I put this list together around the places I'd genuinely want close at hand for a mix of wonder, local atmosphere, and an easy night's rest.
Your essential packing list for a stress-free Disney trip! Whether you're flying solo or with friends and family, these are my go-to items for a perfect visit.
(Heads up: Affiliate links may be included, and I appreciate your support if you use them!)
Tested, loved and things I highly recommend to friends and family when traveling! This list is curated for the girls/guys who say “my bag is an organized mess” and “keep me looking fresh and beautiful”. All these products have me traveling smoothly through TSA and I use some of these items on a daily!
Looking for elevated travel gifts and high-utility transit essentials that make long-haul flights and frequent travel effortless? Navigating security lines, cramped airplane seats, dead device batteries, and lost luggage can make transit draining. This curated gift guide features high-impact, problem-solving travel tech, ergonomic in-flight comfort upgrades, TSA-ready organizers, and luxury packing solutions. Discover how to streamline airport navigation, maximize carry-on space, and pick memorable presents for every frequent flyer.
If I were planning my first trip to Arizona, these are the places I'd consider staying. I chose destinations that offer everything from breathtaking desert landscapes and iconic red rock formations to relaxing lakes, luxury resorts, and charming mountain towns. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, scenic drives, or a peaceful getaway, these are the Arizona destinations I'd start with when searching for the perfect VRBO.
I went for a trip to europe with my parents and these are the places I went to. There's history, architecture and landscape beauty and not so great food haha
Buckle up and join as I drive from LA to San Francisco and back! My family is doing a roadtrip up the Pacific coast and back down in July 2025 and here are the places we stopped and enjoyed!
I love coffee and I love supporting the local coffee shops that I find on my travels even more. These are my top recommendations from where I've traveled! I've included links to order their coffee if they have that option available
I LOVE travel accessories but especially so if they're purple. If you're a fellow purple lover, this is for you! This is a round up of purple suitcases and purple travel bags and accessories.
I’d keep this list saved for the trip. It brings together coastal views, relaxing walks, and memorable local spots, with hotel options that make it easy to relax between exploring, sightseeing, and enjoying the local atmosphere.
Planning a trip to Reserva Nacional Salinas y Aguada Blanca near Arequipa? The altitude hits hard, the sun is relentless, and flamingos don't wait around for you to find your binoculars. I did this walk with the wrong shoes, no sun protection, and a dead phone battery. Here's everything I'd pack if I could rewind and do it right.
There are nice American national parks to see and then there are awesome must see parks. The difference is in the WOW factor, that intangible, breathtaking, never get tired of, feeling. It has THAT thing you never get tired of! Here is my list.
Shared bathrooms are a whole different beast. You're juggling shampoo bottles, dodging mystery puddles, and praying your stuff doesn't touch that shelf everyone uses. I spent two semesters fumbling before I locked down a setup that actually works. If you're heading to college, a hostel, or any situation with communal showers, save yourself the learning curve.
A collection of my go-to places along the Alabama Gulf Coast. Perfect for the whole fam, beach lovers, day-trippers, and anyone who loves a good view, amazing eats, or a good deal.
As someone who's little is 5 and has been on more plane rides than most of my colleagues, I have become a pro at traveling with littles. Traveling with kids is never easy, I always say it's not a vacation, it's just parenting in a different state or country. These are the things I have found to be must haves when traveling with littles.
Cruises out of New Orleans usually head to some mix of Cozumel, Costa Maya, Progreso, Belize, and Roatán. Cozumel and Roatán already have their own sections on my Caribbean shore excursions list (linked below), so this one covers the rest, plus the best ways to spend a day in New Orleans before you board. Fly in a day early, baby. Watching your ship sail off while you're stuck at the airport is not the vacation you paid for. And since booking on your own isn't the same as booking through the ship, check each tour's end time against your all-aboard time and leave yourself a cushion. I may earn a commission if you book through these links.
If you are looking for something to do for Mother's Day in Southern California then this list is for you. I will let you know that this is the second part, so if you are looking for more, look for part 1 for the other options in the area. All the events listed are either happening on the 10th or 11th so please make sure it is happening on the day you are wanting it to happen. Also make sure to read the event descriptions to see if there are any rules or regulations.
As a professional photographer - it is always fun to scout out some of the best locations for photo sessions. I often see people looking for beautiful locations in the area that they can take photos themselves. These would be some of my recommendations for public locations that won't dissapoint.
As a Californian, I love spending my free time at the beach tanning as much as I can. Here are some of my staples that I always have to have on me on those days & that I know you’ll love to!
After New York, Nashville is my second favourite city in the world. I've visited three times now, and it gets better and better each time. If I could live here for a small amount of time, I definitely would. With live music 24/7, a fun atmosphere and incredible people, it really is one of the best places on earth. Below are my favourite bars to see live music in the city!
These are the exact pre‑cruise hotels I’ve personally stayed in across Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Seattle, Boston, Athens, and Rome — many booked entirely on points. If you’re flying in the day before your cruise (which I always recommend), these hotels keep embarkation morning calm, easy, and stress‑free. I’ve included what I loved, who each hotel is best for, and why they work so well for cruisers. Every pick is a real stay, not a guess — Lazy Girl approved. Want full reviews check out →https://www.nopointleftbehind.net/best-precruise-hotels
I have indicated in the products what trip I used this on. Trips: -8 day trip to Barcelona and other parts of Spain. Traveled in late April -7 day trip to Costa Rica (Late April)
Central Florida is a launchpad for amazing RV trips — from the springs and state parks to the Gulf and Atlantic coasts, all within a few hours of Kissimmee. After plenty of weekends on the road, these are the RV and camper gear essentials I rely on to stay safe, comfortable, and hooked up without hassle. Everything links straight to Amazon and ships fast to your Poinciana, Kissimmee, or Orlando home before your next trip.
Everything in this storefront is inspired by what I actually used on my Disney trip 🏰 From park day essentials to outfits and little things that made the experience easier and more magical, these are my personal must-haves. If you're planning a trip or just love Disney, this is what I recommend bringing with you.
As a beach and tropical girl who loves to learn about local culture, Puerto Rico is one of my favorite destinations in the world. After visiting the island many times, I rounded up a list of my favorite free and cheap things to do around San Juan and the rest of the island. Have the best trip!
Struggle with overpacking? This list features my must-have travel items and expert tips for packing light. Perfect for travelers who want to breeze through airports, skip baggage fees, and avoid lost luggage. Plus, check out my article on how to pack efficiently with just a carry-on!
Cartagena, Colombia has become a common travel destination in the recent years and after spending a few weeks here I can understand why! Here is your guide to everything Cartagena - where to stay & what to do :)
Must-have travel gear for surviving long flights in comfort — perfect for frequent flyers and vacationers. Links may earn me a small commission — thanks for supporting my lists!
I pulled together the Las Vegas spots I'd actually send to a friend, plus a few spacious stays for different kinds of trips. There's plenty of classic Vegas energy here, but I also included quieter, characterful options and a few Chicago standouts worth knowing about.
Got a smaller car? - I do. Our Crosstrek is awesome - great milage, goes almost anywhere, but space is certainly at a premium.These are some of my picks to help pack efficiently.