The Sober Globetrotter

Travel With a Like-Minded Companion

Are you a planner or a free spirit? Museum lover or foodie? Chill reader or nonstop explorer? Traveling with someone who vibes with your style can make or break a trip. Match up for smoother, happier adventures.

Embrace the Freedom of Solo Travel

Solo travel is a different kind of joy. Without someone to chat with every moment, you become more present, confident, and open to new experiences. Traveling alone helps you learn more about yourself and the world around you.

Start With Direct Flights

Not sure where to go? Search your home airport code plus “direct flights” online. You’ll find all the destinations you can reach nonstop—which makes planning easier and saves travel time. That’s how I discovered direct flights from the Twin Cities to Tokyo and planned my trip. For complicated routes, this trick can seriously cut down travel time.

Maximize One Day with a Private Guide

Only have a day to explore? Hiring a private guide—often available through Airbnb Experiences or similar platforms—can transform your trip. They show you major sights with insider tips, handle transportation, and tailor the day to your interests. I’ve had unforgettable days like this in Santorini and the Azores!

Don’t Skip the Local Tourism Office

Whether before your trip or once you arrive, check in with the local tourism office. Their job is to gather, organize, and promote the coolest spots and events—so you get insider info and make the most of your time (and budget)!

Travel Smart: Choose Slow Days

Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be the slowest days for tourism—many restaurants and museums close, but those that stay open are less crowded and easier to book. For flights, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays usually have the best deals because they’re less popular travel days.

For flights, the best days to travel are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays – they’re the least popular, so you’re likely to get the best deals.

Follow the 1-2-3-4 Layover Rule

I refuse to risk tight layovers. Over the years, I’ve developed a 1-2-3-4 rule to minimize missed connections and stress:

• Never less than 1 hour for any layover.
• 2 hours minimum for big hubs, unfamiliar airports, or airline changes.
• 3 hours ideal for international airports without customs.
• 4 hours minimum for first/last US layovers or important transatlantic flights.

It might add time, but I haven’t missed a connection, sprinted through the airport, or been one of those half-crazed people trying to rush off the plane in ages. And that peace of mind is priceless.

Read a Travel Guidebook

I love travel guidebooks — they’re packed with info and insider tips that help you plan smart and discover hidden gems. Plus, digital versions and websites from favorites like Fodor’s and Lonely Planet make it easy to access on the go.

Who Says You Can’t Learn a Language?

Your 9th grade French teacher might’ve doubted you, but I don’t. Learning a new language is totally possible—and so worth it! I started small, with Paul Noble’s audiobooks (highly recommend), and now I’ve got travel-ready basics in French and Japanese. You don’t need fluency—just enough to connect.

Seek Out Quirky Stops

I love planning, but I also live for those weird, off-the-beaten-path gems—thank you, Atlas Obscura! You can browse by map, pinpoint quirky stops near your route, and save favorites for when you have a few spare minutes. It’s the perfect way to sprinkle in serendipity.

Organize Your Travel Ideas

Don’t rely on memory alone to recall all the amazing spots you find in guidebooks, blogs, or social media. I’m a spreadsheet nerd (organized by neighborhood, obviously), but you can also use a note in your phone, a Pinterest board, an album of screenshots, saved links, or grouped browser tabs. The goal? Easy access to awesome ideas before the FOMO sets in.

Embrace Shoulder Season Travel

Lower prices, smaller crowds, and great weather? Yes please. Traveling during the “shoulder season”—between peak and off-season—means you get most of the perks without the chaos. Just double-check local schedules, especially in super seasonal spots, to avoid closures.

Prep your sleep schedule to minimize jetlag

If you’re heading somewhere 6–9 hours ahead, start shifting your sleep schedule a week or two before your trip—just a few hours earlier can make a big difference. Headed all the way to Asia? I don’t even try to adjust beforehand—I just dive into the new routine once I land and ride it out like a champ.

Airport Transfers Aren’t Just for the Fancy People

You’ve made it off the plane, through immigration, and collected your bags… now what? Uber, taxi, or local public transport are the usual go-tos, but don’t overlook these lesser-known gems:

1. Private Airport Transfers
Yes, I mean the folks holding name signs just past baggage claim. They’re not just for the rich and famous! You can absolutely book one of these in advance, and they’re sometimes the best option—especially if you’re exhausted, traveling with lots of bags, or juggling a crew. Prices vary, but in many destinations, they’re comparable to taxis (and often less stressful).

2. Airport Limousine Buses
Despite the name, these aren’t luxury cars—they’re comfy, large shuttle buses with preset routes and drop-off points at major hotels. In Tokyo, my ride into the city on the Limo Bus was just $12—and I intentionally booked a hotel that was one of the designated stops. It made my arrival super smooth and totally stress-free.

Moral of the story: airport transfers can be surprisingly affordable, and make your first (or last) day of travel a whole lot easier.

The Last Things I Do Before Leaving the House

Right before I walk out the door, I always: take out the trash, turn down the HVAC and water heater, and run the dishwasher — even if there are only a few things in it. There’s something incredibly grounding about returning to a clean, quiet house with no funky smells or chores waiting.

Charge Your Phone from Power Banks in Countries with Less Reliable Grids

In countries with less stable electricity (hello, power surges!), plug your devices into your power bank, not the wall. If the surge fries anything, better your $30 charger than your $1,000 phone. When I went to Thailand, I used this charging block — it kept my phone and other devices charged for days without issue!

plan travel intentionally to enjoy the ride

Sometimes travel is just about getting from point A to point B, as fast or cheap as possible. But when you can make the journey itself part of the adventure — do it.

Take the train between cities in Europe and soak in the scenery. Ride a ferry between Greek islands and watch the sun sparkle on the Aegean. Drive instead of fly if it means stopping at quirky roadside attractions or discovering that perfect diner in the middle of nowhere.

Creative, scenic, or nostalgic ways of getting around add a little whimsy and deepen the magic of travel. Not every leg of your trip has to be an ordeal — some can be a highlight in their own right.

You Don’t Have to Do the Top Sights

If something doesn’t appeal to you — skip it.
Not into heights? You don’t have to go up the Eiffel Tower to “complete” Paris (and it’s hard to enjoy the view with your eyes clamped shut anyway). Boats make you queasy? Don’t force yourself onto a sunset cruise just because it’s popular.

There are no shoulds in travel. You are under zero obligation to check off every “must-see” if it doesn’t genuinely excite you. Travel should feel like freedom, not a chore. Give yourself permission to skip what doesn’t serve you — and make space for the things that light you up instead.

Go Chase Waterfalls!

Don’t just stick to the rivers and the lakes that you’re used to — adventure lives in the unknown.

Sure, taking a detour doesn’t always lead to a magical moment. But sometimes, when you’re willing to follow curiosity off the beaten path, you stumble into something unforgettable — your own personal Niagara Falls.

Take the chance. Wander. Say yes to the scenic route. Not every turn will be a winner, but some might become the highlight of your whole trip.

travel clothes should be comfy

You’ll enjoy your travel days so much more if you’re not wasting energy being uncomfortable — physically or emotionally. Planes, trains, buses… they’re all more tolerable when your waistband isn’t digging in and your shoes aren’t plotting against you.

And listen: no one on that airplane is paying attention to what you’re wearing. Seriously. Think back to your last trip — do you remember what any stranger was wearing? Nope. Me neither.

So skip the tight jeans, ditch the cute-but-painful shoes, and wear what makes you feel good. Comfort is confidence.

Want to see my favorite comfy-but-cute travel outfits? Check out this list!

Don’t Be Afraid to Rent a Car for Just a Day

For the longest time, I thought trips fell into two neat categories: car trips or no car trips. Either you drove everywhere, or you didn’t rent a car at all. But here’s the truth: it doesn’t have to be all or nothing.

Take Montreal, for instance — it’s wonderfully walkable, with no need for a car in the city. But just outside? Gorgeous hiking trails, serene lakes, and Nordic spas that feel like heaven… and no train lines to get you there.

Once I realized I could rent a car just for a day, my travel style shifted. Turo (or traditional rentals, but Turo is like AirBnB for cars) makes it easy to grab a vehicle for 24 hours and chase a little adventure, then return to the city without the hassle of long-term parking or high costs.

So if you’re craving a hike, a hot spring, or a cute small town an hour away — go get that car. Freedom is just a set of keys away.

Go See the Most Popular Sights Right When They Open

If it’s a must-see attraction — the Acropolis in Athens, the Louvre in Paris, the cherry blossoms in Tokyo — here’s my golden rule: get there before it opens.

Like, 30 to 60 minutes early. Yes, really.

It might feel silly at first, standing around waiting, but once the gates open and you walk into a quiet, nearly empty space that will be shoulder-to-shoulder an hour later? You’ll be glad you did. You’ll have room to breathe, take in the magic, and get better photos too.

Bonus: In some spots, arriving near closing time can also help you avoid the crowds. Just know it’s a little riskier — you might feel rushed, and the light for photos may not be ideal.

So set your alarm. Pick up that early coffee. Enjoy your peace.

Find the best food, almost anywhere

Forget the tourist traps and lukewarm Yelp reviews — if you want to eat like a local who really cares about food, head to Eater.

Their city-specific sites (just Google “Eater + [City Name]”) are packed with curated guides to the best food in town — from Michelin-starred tasting menus to life-changing noodle joints down an alley. Their Eater 38 lists highlight standout restaurants that define the local food scene and have stood the test of time.

Bonus: You can browse these picks on a map, which makes it super easy to find a great bite while you’re out exploring.

Seriously, this is how I’ve eaten some of the best meals of my life — in cities I didn’t know at all.

Find a Travel Hobby

Even if you’re a total wanderlust junkie, it’s still nice to have a purpose while you explore. For me, that’s photography — capturing a feeling, a moment, a memory. But your “thing” could be anything.

Maybe you collect shells, rocks, or fridge magnets. Maybe you’re chasing the world’s tallest buildings, oldest libraries, or quirkiest cathedrals. You could hunt down every UNESCO World Heritage Site, try a local version of the same dish in every country, or visit all the National Parks.

It doesn’t have to be serious — it just has to light you up. Make a list. Check it off. Add something new. Check that off too. A travel hobby turns random wandering into a fun little quest — and makes even quiet days feel like part of the adventure.

Make time for rest

Travel can be exhilarating — new sights, sounds, flavors, and experiences around every corner. But if you’re go-go-going from dawn to dusk, you might find yourself too fried to actually enjoy it.

If you’re tired, take the nap. Lounge at the pool. Sit on that sunny café patio for an hour longer than you “should.” Rest isn’t wasted time — it’s essential travel fuel.

You’re not there to conquer a checklist. You’re there to feel the moment, and that only happens when your brain and body are rested enough to receive it.

Practice Presence, Not Performance

In a world where “pics or it didn’t happen” feels like the norm, it’s easy to slip into performing your trip instead of livingit. But here’s the truth: the most meaningful travel moments often aren’t photogenic — they’re messy, quiet, or personal. Let yourself be there fully, even if you don’t capture it on camera. Travel is not content — it’s connection.

Leave Space for Serendipity

Overplanning can be just as limiting as underplanning. If your itinerary is jam-packed from morning to night, there’s no room for those magic moments — the unexpected café, the street musician, the hidden garden, the conversation with a stranger. Build wiggle room into your plans, and trust that some of the best parts of travel aren’t on the itinerary.

Honor the Place You’re In

Whether you’re walking through a centuries-old cathedral, hiking on sacred land, or wandering through a bustling market, pause to remember: this place has a story. Someone lives here, someone built this, someone calls it home. Slow down. Read the plaque. Lower your voice. Say thank you. Treat each space with the same reverence you’d hope someone would show your own.

Mindful travel isn’t just about how you feel — it’s about how you show up in the world.

Dine Fancy at Lunch to Save Big

Food is one of my favorite parts of travel—and yes, I love a splurge-worthy fine dining experience. But let’s be real: five-star dinners can crush your budget fast. That’s why I book the fancy spot for lunch! Even Michelin-starred restaurants often serve similar dishes mid-day at a fraction of the price. Same chefs, same kitchen, same culinary magic—just less $$$. A delicious hack for eating well and spending smart.

Self-Guided Audio Tours: Explore Like a Local, at Your Own Pace

One of my favorite ways to explore a destination is with a self-guided audio tour. You can pause when something catches your eye, skip what doesn’t interest you, and move entirely on your own schedule. Many are free, and some are narrated by locals for extra cultural flavor! Rick Steves has a fantastic collection for European spots. I’m excited to try out VoiceMap (great offline options) and Travel Stories, which features curated tales told by locals.

Unlimited Metro Passes: Smart Saver or Sneaky Trap?

Unlimited transit passes can save you serious cash—if you’ll actually use them. Before you buy, ask yourself:

• How often will I use public transport vs. walking or rideshares?
• Are most of my destinations near transit stops?
• Does the pass cover all the lines I’ll need?

For example, Tokyo offers a Metro pass that only works on one of the city’s several subway systems—so it might not get you where you want to go. Do your research ahead of time to decide if it’s a deal or a dud.

Find Free Fun in Local Event Guides

Before or during your trip, check out local publications like Time Out, alternative weeklies, or city-specific blogs. These free resources are goldmines for affordable activities, local events, and food guides that reflect what locals actually love. Best of all? They often highlight free or low-cost experiences that you’d never find in a traditional travel guide.

Skip the Minibar—Stock Up at Grocery & Convenience Stores Instead

Airport shops and hotel minibars are highway robbery—and worse, they’re boring. Same chips. Same sad water bottles. Same “meh.”

Instead, hit up local grocery stores or convenience stores at your destination. They’re often cheaper and way more fun. In Japan, for example, convenience stores are an art form—Anthony Bourdain was obsessed with the egg salad “sandos” from Lawson’s, and honestly, same.

• Grab a few drinks, a couple of snacks (both familiar and strange), and maybe a treat or two for the road.
• Add in a couple reusable snack bags or ziplocks, and you’ve basically unlocked snack-based freedom for the whole trip—the world is your oyster now, baby!
• Bonus tip: maybe don’t bring oysters on the plane. TSA would be very confused. And also… ew.

Travel Vaccines for Less

Getting vaccinated for international travel can be shockingly expensive—especially if you go through travel clinics like Passport Health. Don’t get me wrong: they’re amazing for personalized consultations and advice on what’s needed for your destination. But for the actual shots? You can often do better.

Here’s the trick: once you know which vaccines or prescriptions you need, look them up on GoodRx or SingleCare. These sites will tell you where to get each shot or medication for the lowest price in your area. If you find a better deal at a pharmacy, ask your primary care doctor to call in the prescription—no need to pay top dollar at the clinic.

I’m prepping for an African safari this fall, and Passport Health recommended a whole suite of vaccines and meds. Their quote? Over $3000. With some savvy shopping and a few calls to my PCP? I’m shaving that number down dramatically.

Book Flights Directly with the Airline

Use sites like Google Flights or Expedia to compare prices and plan your route—but when it’s time to actually book, go straight to the airline’s website. The price is usually the same (or close), but the peace of mind is priceless.

If your flight gets canceled, delayed, or rescheduled, airline staff are often unable to help if your ticket was booked through a third-party site. You’ll get sent in a maddening loop of “talk to your booking agent” while you’re stuck at the gate. Booking directly gives you better customer service, easier itinerary changes, and a lot more flexibility if travel chaos hits—which, let’s be honest, happens more than we’d like.

Airline Loyalty + Travel Credit Cards = Freebies, Upgrades, and Peace of Mind

If you live near a major airline hub (like Delta in Atlanta or Minneapolis), it’s worth aligning your flying habits with that airline’s frequent flyer program. Even without a credit card, those points build up fast.

But if you do spring for a travel rewards credit card, the perks can be next-level. Some examples:

• Free checked bags and priority boarding
• Lounge access (hello, snacks, comfy seats, and clean bathrooms!)
• No foreign transaction fees
• Travel insurance coverage for things like trip delays, lost luggage, and emergency medical needs
• Bonus miles on travel purchases, sometimes enough for a free flight right out of the gate

Just be sure to read the benefits list—many people don’t even realize they already have travel insurance through their card!

And finally, sign up for the frequent flyer program every time you fly, even with niche airlines like Turkish or Icelandair. Points are points—and they can be the key to your next upgrade, freebie, or future flight.

Hack the Sign-Up Bonus (Without Paying the Annual Fee)

Most airline credit cards offer huge mile bonuses when you sign up—sometimes enough for a round-trip to Europe in economy. All you usually need to do is hit a spending threshold within the first few months (like $2,000 in 3 months). But here’s the trick:
💡 That spending can be on anything, not just with the airline. Groceries, gas, bills, Amazon—it all counts.

Even better? The annual fee is usually waived for the first year. So once you get your bonus miles and redeem them, you can cancel the card before that fee kicks in. Some people even calendar the exact amount of time they need to wait before they can repeat the process and collect the bonus all over again.

If you’re more of a casual traveler, this is a great one-time boost. If you’re serious about free flights? Welcome to churner culture.

Hotel Booking Sites vs. Direct—Loyalty Pays Either Way

You might find a better rate booking direct with a hotel—but don’t skip checking the major booking sites. Sites like Expedia, Hotels.com, and Booking.com often offer special members-only deals, and if you travel regularly, their loyalty programs can unlock major perks.

For example, I almost always use Expedia. Thanks to my Gold status, I now get access to VIP hotels, deeper discounts, and awesome extras. I just booked a premium hotel room in Istanbul for three nights, saved over $1300, and scored 25% off tours, spa treatments, and dining during my stay—all because I book consistently through one platform.

Book the Balcony for the Best View & Value

Want great seats without draining your travel budget? Skip the pricey orchestra section and aim for the front row of the balcony. Especially for shows with big dance numbers or elaborate staging, the elevated view gives you the full picture—often at half the price. It’s one of my favorite hacks for theater nights that feel fancy and frugal.

Save Big with City & Museum Passes

Many major cities offer discount passes that bundle entry to top sights and museums—sometimes with added perks like fast-track entry. If enough attractions match your wish list, these passes can save you serious money. I compare the pass price to how many regular admissions I’d pay for anyway. If it’s close? I grab it! Even if I don’t use every option, it often pays for itself—and encourages a little extra exploring I might not have planned.

Stay Close to the Subway (Your Feet Will Thank You)

In cities with good public transit, choosing a hotel or Airbnb near a major subway or train station is a game-changer. It saves money, cuts down travel time, and keeps you from defaulting to a cab when your feet are screaming. A short walk to transit = a whole lot more energy for fun.

Google This Before Every Trip: “Free Things to Do + [Destination]”

Every city has its own set of amazing freebies—you just have to know how to find them. In St. Louis, the world-class zoo and museums are totally free. In Japan, you can book a free private guide if you plan ahead. Start with a quick Google search (“free things to do in [city]”), and you’ll almost always discover hidden gems and unexpected delights that won’t cost you a dime.

Book Activities Direct from the Source

Booking through third-party platforms like Viator or GetYourGuide is super convenient—but you’ll often pay more than you would booking directly. Once you find a tour or experience you’re interested in, try Googling the company name or finding them on social media. You can often book directly, saving 10–30%, and sometimes you’ll even get extra perks or better communication straight from the source.

This goes double for cruise excursions—I’ve seen the exact same tour listed through the cruise line for twice the price! Many local tour companies will even help you arrange transportation to and from the port. You do lose the cruise line’s automatic refund if something changes (like an emergency detour), but many operators will work with you or offer their own guarantees if you ask when booking. It never hurts to inquire!

Use a SIM/eSIM, or Mobile Hotspot for Cheap, Reliable Data Abroad

International roaming? Overpriced. Spotty Wi-Fi? Frustrating. The smart traveler’s move is to skip the roaming fees and stay connected on your terms.

Option 1: SIM or eSIM
In most countries, you can easily buy a local SIM card at the airport or nearby convenience stores for affordable data packages. If your phone is eSIM-compatible, you can even set it up before you land using apps like Airalo or Holafly.

Option 2: Mobile Hotspot
If you’re traveling with others or want to keep your main SIM intact, consider renting or buying a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot.

• In places like Japan, you can reserve one in advance, pick it up at the airport when you arrive, and return it on your way out—super smooth.
• Or go the long-game route with something like the Solis hotspot, which gives you 1GB/month for life and lets you pay by day, gig, or month for extra data. (Bonus: it works in over 130 countries.)

Whether you’re posting selfies, navigating transit, or checking out local gems on the fly, reliable data = freedom to explore without the stress.

Use Local Ride-Share Apps to Save Money—And Avoid Scams

Uber isn’t the only game in town. In many countries, local ride-share apps like Grab (Southeast Asia), Ola (India), or 99(Brazil) offer lower prices, better coverage, or local payment integration. But even more importantly—they offer protection.

In places where language barriers, unfamiliar customs, or inconsistent pricing are common, using any ride-share app is safer and more reliable than flagging a cab. In Greece, for example, if you don’t agree on a taxi fare before getting in, you could end up with a wildly inflated price—and legally, you’ll have to pay it. Ride-share apps give you upfront pricing, maps, and receipts, reducing your risk of being taken for a literal and financial ride.

Use Local Ride-Share Apps to Save Money—And Avoid Scams

Uber isn’t the only game in town. In many countries, local ride-share apps like Grab (Southeast Asia), Ola (India), or 99(Brazil) offer lower prices, better coverage, or local payment integration. But even more importantly—they offer protection.

In places where language barriers, unfamiliar customs, or inconsistent pricing are common, using any ride-share app is safer and more reliable than flagging a cab. In Greece, for example, if you don’t agree on a taxi fare before getting in, you could end up with a wildly inflated price—and legally, you’ll have to pay it. Ride-share apps give you upfront pricing, maps, and receipts, reducing your risk of being taken for a literal and financial ride.

Get Foreign Cash the Smart Way

You’ll probably want some cash in local currency, even if just for tips, snacks, or small vendors. Here’s how to do it without getting gouged:

Order foreign currency from your bank before you leave home. It usually takes a few business days and gets you a way better rate than the airport kiosk.
Need more while abroad? Use an ATM—but make sure it’s one that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. Many U.S. banks and credit unions partner with global networks that waive those extra charges, so check before you go.

Use Your Card Wisely Abroad

Credit cards are usually the best way to pay while traveling—but there’s a trick to using them right:

Always pay in the local currency.
If you’re asked whether to charge your card in U.S. dollars or the local currency, pick local. It feels counterintuitive, but choosing dollars usually means a worse exchange rate and hidden fees (thanks, dynamic currency conversion 😑).

Use a card with no foreign transaction fees.
Many travel credit cards offer this perk—it can save you 2–3% on every purchase abroad and give you added protections and rewards to boot.