Travel Tips – MLE Travel Diary

How to Find a Good Hostel: 8 Tips Every Solo Traveler Should Know

MLE Travel Diary — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 14:00:00 +0000

Thinking of staying in a hostel on your next solo trip, but not sure what to look for to find a good hostel? I wanted to share my top 6 tips that I’ve learned from my experience traveling and staying in hostels all around the world!

These tips will help you narrow down your options and find a good hostel to stay at, regardless of what you’re looking for.

Hostels are a great option to save money when traveling solo, but I also love them for when I’m traveling with other people since you can make so many friends by staying in a hostel!

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1. Get a good hostel recommendation

One of the first things I do when trying to find a good hostel is check to see if I have any friends or trusted travel bloggers that have visited the place I want to visit. And if so, checking to see where they stayed and if they liked it.

This way you can get an honest review of the hostel vibe and decide if it would be a good fit for you!

When finding a travel blogger you trust, I recommend looking for someone who has a similar travel style to you. For example, you like the locations they visit, the types of activities they do, or their overall vacation vibe.

2. Read hostel reviews

I always make sure to read the hostel reviews on Hostelworld and Google to get a sense of other people’s experiences and mostly what the negative reviews are complaining about.

You’ll want to keep a specific eye out for things like cleanliness issues, bed bugs, noise, quiet hours, atmosphere, air-conditioning, security and safety concerns – both in terms of location and personal belongings.

I usually try to find a good hostel that has at least 200 reviews and is rated at least an 8, ideally a 9, out of 10 on Hostelworld.

Keep in mind that every place is going to have at least one negative review – the goal isn’t to find a hostel with only positive reviews. The goal is to find a good hostel that you have reasonable assurance is doing the best job they can and will take responsibility to fix any issues that may arise.

3. Look at photos

Look at the photos provided by the hostel, as well as the ones posted in reviews. This can give you a sense of the hostel’s cleanliness and sleeping arrangements.

I highly recommend checking to see if you’ll have a curtain for sleeping. Even if you’re not sensitive to light when you sleep, it’s nice for privacy reasons.

4. Prioritize location

Above anything else, I would prioritize location of the hostel. Even if something is slightly more expensive, you want to make sure of the following:

1. Neighborhood safety: The hostel is located in a good, safe area that meets your safety standards.
2. Proximity: The hostel is close to the attractions you want to visit.
3. Public transit: The hostel is easily accessible or close to public transit like the bus/metro.

The location can really make or break your trip; the first time I visited Paris I didn’t like the arrondissement I was staying in. Which honestly caused me to dislike the entire city – since I’ve been back I’ve had way better experiences staying in nicer locations!

5. Pick a hostel that has the vibe you're looking for

Different hostels have really different atmospheres and vibes, which can totally alter your experience depending on what you’re looking for.

If you want a social hostel, look to see if they host events like trivia or bar crawls. Also, if they have a bar in the hostel, this is a pretty good indicator that the hostel will be more social.

This is great if you’re wanting to make friends and party in the city you’re visiting! I stayed in more social hostels in my 20’s and loved them; there was also something going on and I met so many people this way.

If you want a quieter hostel, avoid hostels with these types of things.

6. Look for free breakfast

While free breakfast is not a necessity, this is a really nice perk and another great way to meet people staying in your hostel. Also, who doesn’t love free food?!

When I visited Portugal, I stayed in a hostel that had unlimited crêpes for breakfast every morning and OMG. They were amazing, I still think about those crêpes!!

Remember to check reviews to see if the food is actually good or not.

7. Make sure there's stable wifi

When you’re trying to find a good hostel, especially if you’re a digital nomad or using an eSIM, make sure that the hostel will have a good wifi connection. You don’t want to burn through all of your data or run into issues trying to work.

Also, think about whether or not you’ll need a VPN for security, especially if you’re using a public Wi-Fi network.

8. Most hostels have private rooms

One thing I didn’t realize when I first stayed in a hostel is that a lot of them actually have private rooms if you have a more flexible budget or aren’t totally comfortable sleeping in a room with strangers!

This is also a great option if you are traveling with someone else. With your own room, you will have privacy, but still get that social aspect with hostel activities or common areas.

Have you ever stayed in a hostel? Let me know if you have any other questions on how to find a good hostel in the comments!

And be sure to follow along on Instagram for more travel content and tips.

mariss

The post How to Find a Good Hostel: 8 Tips Every Solo Traveler Should Know first appeared on MLE Travel Diary.

Ultimate Hiking Packing List: 20+ Essentials You’ll Actually Use

MLE Travel Diary — Thu, 24 Jul 2025 14:00:00 +0000

Every year since 2020, my sister and I have gone on an annual “sister trip” to explore a new national park (or two!). This year we visited Olympic National Park and I wanted to share everything I brought along with me!

Now let me be clear: we are not expert-level hikers, going on multi-day treks and camping overnight. However, we do love hikes that take us to scenic overlooks, or waterfalls, or glacial lakes, and of course the occasional 14 mile hike (looking at you, Grinnell Glacier Trail).

This ultimate hiking packing list is full of essentials for the beginner/average hiker that I think everyone should pack for a hiking trip.

Packing for a hiking trip can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure what you’ll actually use out on the trail. So many times I have brought a giant backpack full of things I didn’t use, but just weighed me down.

Whether you’re tackling a half-day trek or a full weekend adventure, I’ve rounded up my go-to essentials that strike the perfect balance between being prepared and staying lightweight.

Quick List of My Must-Haves

If you’ve ever overpacked, this hiking packing list is going to help you pare it down to just the things that matter most, starting with the quick list of must-haves you should never forget.

1. Lightweight Hiking Boots

I swear by my Vessi Stormburst; they are super supportive and waterproof, but not bulky.

BEST SELLER

Vessi Women’s Stormburst Frost White

Lightweight, waterproof sneakers designed for comfort and style. Perfect for everyday wear, these shoes keep your feet dry and cozy without sacrificing fashion.

Buy Now at Vessi from $150

2. Moisture-wicking base layers

Sharing all of my favorites in the “What to Wear” section, but definitely recommend having at least 2-3 layers you can easily put on or take off depending on the weather.

3. Anti-blister crew socks

These SHEZZA socks have saved my life on long hikes – I used to get the worst blisters. but hiked 14 miles in these with no pain.

SHEZZA Socks Anti-Blister Cushioned Breathable

Comfortable, breathable socks with cushioned padding to prevent blisters and enhance foot comfort during any activity. Perfect for everyday wear or workouts.

Buy on Amazon from $20

4. Water bottle

I usually bring my Wondery 50 States Bucketlist Bottle, or love a CAMELBAK hydration vest to stay hands-free.

FAVORITE WATER BOTTLE

Original National Bucket Printed Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Durable and stylish stainless steel water bottle featuring a 50 states design. Keeps drinks cold or hot for hours—perfect for hydration on the go.

Buy on Amazon from $35

STAY HANDS-FREE

CamelBak Dart Pack Hydration Vest

Lightweight and comfortable hydration vest designed for runners and outdoor enthusiasts. Features multiple storage compartments and adjustable fit for all-day comfort.

Buy Now at Free People from $80

5. Sunscreen and a mini first-aid kit

You never know what can happen out on the trails, so you want to make sure you’re prepared for any little sunburns, cuts or bruises you might get while hiking!

Best Seller

Mini First Aid Kit

A compact and lightweight first aid kit that’s TSA-friendly and perfect for travel. Comes stocked with 100 pieces to cover basic medical needs on the go.

Buy on Amazon from $15

I swear by this Blue Lizard sunscreen – it kept me protected while I was in the Philippines, out in the sun all day long. (Not to brag, but I was the only person on my 20+ person boat that didn’t get sunburnt!)

Top Pick

Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen

Gentle and effective sun protection, ideal for sensitive skin. Mineral-based formula with broad-spectrum SPF for beach days and hikes alike.

Buy on Amazon from $14

Essential Gear to Pack for a Hiking Trip

1. Hiking backpack (12–20L)

To carry all of your belongings while keeping your hands free, you’re going to need a hiking backpack. Now, if you are on a super tight budget you could get away with using a backpack you already own.

However, those tend to be pretty heavy on their own, so I would recommend getting a lighter backpack that’s made for this exact purpose. Both of these options have a ton of pockets and compartments to help you stay organized.

TOP PICK

Osprey Daylite Commuter Backpack Night

Lightweight and versatile commuter backpack designed for daily use. Features durable materials, comfortable straps, and organized compartments to keep essentials handy.

Buy on Amazon from $50

BEST DAYPACK

TETON Sports Hydration Backpack

Durable hydration backpack ideal for hiking and outdoor adventures. Features ample storage, comfortable fit, and a built-in hydration reservoir to keep you refreshed.

Buy on Amazon from $45

2. Hiking shoes/boots

Like I mentioned before, having a good pair of hiking shoes will make or break your trip. The second your feet get tired or hurt or injured, it’s game over.

I love the Vessi Stormburst as an occasional day hiker; these are the most fashionable hiking shoes I could find and they keep me feet feeling good throughout the entire trip.

However, if you’re more of a serious or more frequent hiker, I would recommend either the Merrell Moab 3 or Salomon X Ultra 4.

Merrell Moab 3 Sneakers

Supportive, grippy, and trail-ready sneakers that are perfect for hiking or traveling light. The cushioning makes long days on your feet feel a little easier.

Buy on Free People from $140

Buy on Amazon from $79

Salomon Women’s X Ultra Pioneer Hiking Shoes

Lightweight hiking shoes designed for trail performance and all-day comfort. Great grip and support for rugged terrain.

Buy on Amazon from $155

Buy on Free People from $185

3. Trekking poles

If you’re looking to do some more challenging or steep hikes, then you’ll want to invest in trekking poles. These help you stay balanced, especially on uneven terrain, and can help reduce strain on your joints, particularly knees and ankles, by distributing weight more evenly

Top Pick

Black Diamond Trail Back Trekking Poles

Lightweight, collapsible hiking poles with FlickLock adjustability. Great for stability and comfort on tough trails.

Buy on Amazon from $65

Stay Hands-Free

Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles

Durable aluminum trekking poles with quick-lock mechanisms and cork grips—perfect for hikes that require stability and support.

Buy on Amazon from $40

4. Portable charger

Bringing along a powerbank for your phone is a must! You want to make sure your phone has a charge in case you get lost and need to use your phone to get back on the trail.

I actually usually bring along two of these, just in case one isn’t fully charged or randomly stops working.

I Have 2 Of These

INIU High-Speed Flashlight Powerbank

A versatile flashlight and powerbank combo designed for reliable lighting and convenient charging on the go.

Buy on Amazon

5. Offline map app or GPS device

Along that same note, a lot of national parks don’t have great cell coverage, especially once you’re way up in the mountains. I always recommend bringing a paper map and/or downloading the area you’ll be in on Offline Google Maps.

You can also access offline trail maps with an AllTrails Pro subscription, or by bringing along a GPS device like the Garmin inReach Mini.

Top Pick

Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator

A lightweight and compact satellite communicator that lets you stay connected anywhere, even when you're off the grid.

Buy on Amazon from $350

What to Wear on a Hiking Trip (by Season)

Warm weather (spring/summer)

1. Moisture-wicking base layer

Start with a lightweight base layer that will keep you cool and protected from the sun! Look for something made out of synthetic materials like polyester and nylon, or natural options like merino wool.

Your favorite cotton t-shirt is generally not recommended, because it can retain moisture and then become uncomfortable in the warmer weather.

Best Long Sleeve

Lululemon Swiftly Tech Long Sleeve

A lightweight, sweat-wicking long sleeve that's perfect for layering during morning hikes or cooler days. Seamless and breathable with a flattering fit.

Buy at Lululemon from $50

Best Short Sleeve

Lululemon Hiking Short Sleeve Shirt

Designed for movement and breathability, this short sleeve tee is a go-to for outdoor adventures. Lightweight, quick-drying, and super soft.

Buy at Lululemon from $50

2. Quick-dry hiking shorts or leggings

Choose bottoms that are comfortable, flexible, and also made from quick-drying materials – especially if there’s any chance of rain or even just sweating (aka every hike ever).

Shorts are great for warmer weather, while leggings are a good option for cooler temps or to prevent mosquito and tick bites. Again, look for moisture-wicking fabrics like nylon, spandex, or polyester blends to keep you dry and chafe-free.

Favorite Shorts

Lululemon Shake It Out High-Rise Running Shorts

Lightweight, high-rise shorts designed for running and hiking. These are breathable, flattering, and stay in place while moving.

Buy at Lululemon from $50

Best Pants

Women’s Hiking Lightweight Pants

Durable, lightweight hiking pants designed with multiple pockets and quick-dry fabric—perfect for camping, trekking, and outdoor adventures.

Buy on Amazon from $35

3. Hiking hat

Protect your face (and scalp!) from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat or a breathable cap. This makes such a difference when you’re being exposed to direct sunlight for hours, and I find it keeps me feeling cooler.

Has Ponytail Hole

FURTALK Foldable Hiking Hat

Lightweight, foldable sun protection hat designed with a convenient ponytail hole for comfort and style on the trail.

Buy on Amazon from $14

4. Sunglasses with UV protection

A good pair of sunglasses is key, especially on high-elevation trails or exposed ridgelines where the sun can be extra intense.

Choose lenses with 100% UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays, and go for something lightweight and durable so they stay comfy and don’t slide off mid-sweat.

Goodr is stylish and affordable

Affordable and Stylish

goodr Translucent Polarized Sunglasses

Lightweight and polarized sunglasses that combine affordability with trendy style, perfect for outdoor activities and everyday wear.

Buy on Amazon from $25

5. Breathable hiking socks

Trust me, you’ll want to invest in a few solid pairs of hiking socks! Look for breathable, moisture-wicking options (merino wool is a fave!) to prevent blisters and keep your feet dry.

Skip the cotton here too – it traps moisture and can lead to rubbing and blisters.

Get 20% OFF at Fox River

Fox River Lightweight Crew Socks (2-Pack)

Breathable, lightweight, and made for all-day comfort — these crew socks are ideal for travel, hikes, or everyday wear.

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6. Water shoes

This might seem random, but if the weather is nice out and you’re hot, you’ll probably want to go for a quick dip in a lake or ocean or wherever you’ve hiked to!

I’d recommend bringing along a lightweight pair of water shoes that you can slip on to protect your feet – we don’t want any cuts here!

My Favorite Pair

VIFUUR Water Sports Barefoot Quick-Dry Shoes

Lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying water shoes perfect for swimming, beach, and other water activities.

Buy on Amazon from $6

Cool weather (fall/winter)

1. Thermal base layers

When planning to hike in colder weather, you’ll definitely want to start with a good thermal base layer. This will help trap your body heat while wicking away sweat to keep you dry.

Look for materials like merino wool or synthetic blends that offer warmth without the bulk. This is one layer you’ll never regret packing when the temps drop!

Best Affordable Pick

Uniqlo Heattech Ultra Warm Turtleneck

This affordable base layer adds surprising warmth without bulk. A great value for layering during chilly travel days or under sweaters.

Buy on Uniqlo from $19

Warmest Base Layer

Merino.tech Heavyweight Merino Wool Thermal Top

A super warm and breathable merino wool base layer, perfect for freezing temps, mountain adventures, or layering under ski gear.

Buy on Amazon from $35

2. Insulating mid-layer

Your mid-layer is all about warmth – think fleece pullovers, down jackets, or synthetic puffers. You want this layer to be easy to take off or put back on as temps change throughout the day.

Fleece is great for breathability, while down or synthetic insulation gives you that cozy warmth that’s perfect for chilly mornings or higher elevations.

I personally also love my heated fleece jacket – as someone who is “always cold” this helps me retain heat throughout the day!

Best Heated Jacket

ORORO Women's Heated Jacket

Stay warm during chilly hikes or outdoor adventures with this heated jacket that features a detachable hood and battery-powered warmth.

Buy on Amazon from $130

Best Affordable Option

Amazon Essentials Packable Puffer Jacket

A water-resistant, lightweight, and packable jacket that’s perfect for travel and layering—an affordable alternative to pricier brands.

Buy on Amazon from $23

3. Water-resistant outer shell

A lightweight, water-resistant (or waterproof!) jacket is a must for unpredictable weather. Whether there’s a light drizzle in the morning or you’re hiking through mountain mist, this outer layer helps block wind and keep you dry.

Bonus points if it has pit zips or ventilation to keep things breathable. Look for something that packs down small so it’s easy to stash in your daypack.

Top Pick

REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket - Women's

Waterproof and breathable rain jacket designed to keep you dry and comfortable during outdoor adventures, with a stylish fit tailored for women.

Buy on REI from $67

4. Wool hiking socks

Wool socks aren’t just for winter, they’re a year-round hiking essential. Merino wool is naturally moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, and temperature-regulating, making it ideal for everything.

I recommend picking a pair that has a little bit of cushioning to keep your feet comfy, supported, and blister-free. There’s literally nothing worse than getting a blister and having to slow down your pace or stop completely.

Top Pick

Smartwool Women's Hike Full Cushion Socks

High-performance hiking socks with full cushioning for extra comfort and durability on long treks.

Buy on Amazon from $20

Food, Water & Trail Snacks

1. Water filter

Staying hydrated on the trail is non-negotiable, and having a reliable water filter or a water bottle with a built-in filter makes it easy to refill safely from streams or lakes.

Instead of lugging tons of water (which is like surprisingly super heavy), you can top off whenever you find fresh water. It’s a game-changer for longer hikes or backcountry adventures.

Top Pick

LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle

BPA-free water bottle with integrated LifeStraw filter, removing parasites and microplastics for safe drinking anywhere.

Buy on Amazon from $35

2. Electrolyte tablets

Sweating, especially on a hot or strenuous hike, means you lose important minerals like sodium and potassium. Electrolyte tablets are a super convenient way to keep your body balanced and energy up without carrying heavy sports drinks.

Just drop a tablet in your water bottle for a quick hydration boost, or bring along these Zaca chewables for an easier way to rehydrate.

My favorite hydration product

Zaca Hydration & Recovery Chewables

Chewable supplement with electrolytes, antioxidants, and herbs to support hydration, stamina, and recovery—perfect for travel or post-hike fatigue.

Buy on Amazon from $9

3. Bear-safe food container

If you’ll be hiking through bear country, you’ll definitely want to bring along a bear-safe food container. If you do snack along the trail, make sure to not drop any crumbs or trash that could attract a bear.

I recommend getting a canister over a bag to really keep bears out, if you have the space for it.

Top Pick

BearVault BV500 Bear-Proof Food Canister

A must-have for backpackers heading into bear country. Lightweight, durable, and approved for use in most national parks.

Buy on Amazon from $75

4. Protein Bars

These are so important to have no matter where you’re hiking or how long your hike is. I usually bring a couple different protein bars for easy on-the-go snacking.

TOP PICK

GoMacro MacroBar Organic Vegan Protein Bars - Variety Pack

Organic, plant-based protein bars made with clean ingredients. Vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, and non-GMO. This variety pack includes a mix of best-selling flavors—perfect for on-the-go snacking or pre/post workout fuel.

Buy on Amazon from $21

ALOHA Organic Plant-Based Protein Bars - Variety Pack

Delicious organic plant-based protein bars made with clean ingredients. Vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, and non-GMO. Perfect for on-the-go energy and nutrition with a variety of flavors.

Buy on Amazon from $21

5. Trail mix, dried fruit or beef jerky

Trail mix, dried fruit and beef jerky are classic hiking snacks for a reason; they’re lightweight, packed with energy, and easy to munch on the move. Aim for a good mix of nuts, seeds, dried fruit, jerky, and maybe a few chocolate chips for a tasty combo to keep your energy up as you go.

Best Beef Jerky

Country Archer Teriyaki Beef Jerky

This protein-packed snack is perfect for long hikes and road trips. Made with 100% grass-fed beef, it's flavorful, gluten-free, and easy to stash in your backpack.

Buy on Amazon from $20

Top Snack Mix

Nature’s Garden Healthy Trail Mix Snack Packs

These individually packed trail mix snacks are the perfect grab-and-go energy boost for hikes, road trips, or plane rides.

Buy on Amazon from $20

6. Mini utensil set

If you plan to eat a meal or snack that requires a little more than just hands, a mini utensil set is clutch. Look for lightweight, compact options, like foldable sporks or reusable bamboo sets, that you can pack with you!

Bestseller

Portable Hiking Utensil Set

A compact, durable stainless steel utensil set that’s perfect for hiking, camping, or road trips. Comes with a case so everything stays clean and organized on the go.

Buy on Amazon from $8

Let me know your favorite hiking products in the comments below! And be sure to follow me on Instagram for more travel content.

mariss

The post Ultimate Hiking Packing List: 20+ Essentials You’ll Actually Use first appeared on MLE Travel Diary.

How To Create A Travel Budget You Actually Stick To: 6 Easy Steps

MLE Travel Diary — Thu, 15 May 2025 14:00:00 +0000

Everyone likes to talk about traveling, but no one likes to talk about budgeting and numbers…right?

WRONG! I’m Marissa and I’m a CPA (accountant) who loves anything to do with numbers and math. And that especially includes creating a realistic travel budget that will get you excited for your trip, instead of dreading coming back home to a negative balance in your savings account.

This blog post will cover my 6 step process for figuring out and creating a travel budget for each of your trips – and how to actually stick to it!

To download my FREE travel budget template, drop your email below and I’ll send it straight to your inbox 💌

1. Determine your travel budget for the entire year

First things first, I set a budget for my entire year dedicated just to travel. This helps me really prioritize the trips that matter most to me, and make sure I can afford everywhere I want to go.

When I do this step, I also pencil in where I want to go, and the dates or months for each trip.

For example, this year I knew I really wanted to go to Amsterdam in the spring to see the tulip gardens. When I made the travel budget, I didn’t have exact dates for when I was going to go, but having this general idea helped me estimate what the trip would cost.

It’s totally okay if you aren’t sure when OR where you want to go! You can totally tailor the travel budget however you want.

If you know you want to take two big trips, one in the summer and one in the winter, write that down! If you know you want to visit Thailand, but aren’t sure when you want to go, write that down!

Here’s the travel schedule I drafted last winter:

Seeing it all written out visually will help you determine too if your travel plans are realistic, or if maybe you need to push a couple trips to the following year. Or, best case, maybe you can do even more trips this year!

Once you start to know where you want to go, you can also keep an eye out for any flight deals. Which brings us to our next step.

2. Estimate how much flights will cost

Once I have written down all of the trips I want to go on, I estimate how much flights will cost for each trip. In this blog post, I’m going to use my Thailand trip as an example and walk through each of the steps for that trip.

I estimate flight prices by using Google’s Explore feature. Here you can see I input my parameters, a 2-week trip in October to anywhere in Thailand flying out of Los Angeles.

You can get even more specific with filters, like if you want a nonstop flight or a total flight duration under 20 hours, for example.

Based on my knowledge of researching similar flights to Thailand previously, I know that around the $700-800 range is a really great price for a roundtrip flight.

However, if flight prices are looking higher than I’d like, I also use this to see if there’s a month or two where flights are MUCH lower than usual.

I do this by searching in Google Flights, then going into the date section. Google has this really great feature where you can scroll through all travel dates and it will color the cheapest flights in this green color:

You can see there are some really great deals in August for under $700, which is amazing! If my trip is flexible, I will usually change my plans to travel a different month.

For purposes of my travel budget, I like to overestimate my costs a bit so I save up more than I will need. So, I will budget $800 for flights for my Thailand trip.

3. Estimate how much lodging will cost

Next, i do the same thing for hotels by using Google Maps to search for hotels in the place I want to visit. This gives me a sense of how much the average nightly cost is during that time frame.

I make sure to include filters like a minimum 4.5 guest rating, a fitness center, and free cancellation. Here are the results I got for Bangkok in October:

Scrolling through the options quickly, I see that a hotel with my search parameters will cost me about $100 per night, on average. I will take that average cost and multiply it by the number of nights I’m planning to go.

For my Thailand example, I’m going to use 10 nights for my calculation in my travel budget:

Now, if this number is way more or less than you were expecting, you can play around with the search parameters to get more precise results.

For example, if you want to stay in a hostel, you can filter for that and that should cost you much less – closer to $30 / night. Alternatively, if you want to ball out since the dollar goes a lot farther in Thailand, you could up your budget to $200 / night and stay in some super luxurious hotels or Airbnbs.

You can also come back to this step once you have an idea of all of your costs to see what you can cut out, or what you can splurge on.

4. Budget for food, activities and transit

My budget for food usually ranges from $20-$100 a day, depending on where I am headed.

For a place like Thailand in Southeast Asia, this number will be on the lower end. For most European cities, this number will be higher since the dollar doesn’t go as far there.

If you want to get really precise about it, you can find a few restaurants in the city you want to visit, scan their menu for what you’d order and calculate your costs that way.

For this trip, I’m going to estimate $15 /meal, or $45 / day, and add that to my travel budget.

Moving onto activities. My budget for activities usually ranges from $25-$100 a day, depending on where i’m going.

Again, I would think through a few things you’d like to do on your trip and search up what that will cost.

When I solo travel, I like to do more tours and excursions, and usually end up spending a bit more on activities so that I can be out meeting people and doing things with other people.

For my Thailand trip, I would love to check out temples and visit the floating markets. I haven’t thought too much about my entire itinerary, but also know that activities will cost me less in Bangkok.

The average cost to visit temples is around 100 – 200 baht, or $3-6. Therefore, I will budget $25 / day for all of my activities, since I know some days will be more costly than others.

Lastly, transit. This includes everything from airport taxis, to car rentals, to metro fares, to daily Uber rides, etc.

I suggest going through your itinerary and thinking about what you plan to do each day, and what kind of transit you’ll be needing.

For my Thailand trip, I googled “average taxi cost in bangkok.” Google told me that short trips usually cost around 50 baht, whereas longer trips might be around 200 – 300 baht.

I estimate that I’ll need to take at least 2 airport rides (one there, and one back), and then maybe 1-2 short rides each day. This would total about 1,200 baht, or $4 / day.

5. Repeat this for each of your destinations

Going through this process for each of the trips will give me a sense of the best time to travel to each place, and how many trips I can actually afford this year.

Here is my entire travel budget filled out for the year:

You can see that the total is quite high, and personally is more than I am comfortable spending in one year on travel. Therefore, I will start to go through the travel budget and see either where I can save money, or where I can push a trip to the following year.

Once I have a sense of everywhere I want to go, I can watch flight prices for the best time to book using things like Google Flights or Thrifty Traveler.

Google Flights lets you set alerts for when flight prices drop for a specific search. This is great if you have certain dates you need to travel somewhere, like for a wedding. Here’s an email alert I got recently for some Mallorca flights this summer:

Email subscription services like Thrifty Traveler (you can use code MLE for $10 off your premium subscription!) or Going will notify you when great flight deals pop up.

You usually have a few days to book these deals, so these services are great if you have the flexibility in your schedule to hop on flight deals!

6. Keep track of your actual spending

Lastly, as i start booking things for each of my trips, I keep track of what i’m spending to see how it compares to my travel budget and adjust accordingly.

Like I said before, I usually like to over-budget so that I can save money and splurge on more experiences once i’m there!

Here’s what my travel budget is currently looking like, after having gone on a few of these trips already this year:

As you can see, I was waaay over budgeting for a lot of these big trips, so have some extra spending room for my trips later this year!

If you want to download this exact template I use for my travel budget, drop your email below and I’ll send it straight to your inbox (it’s free!)💌

Let me know if this is helpful and if you want me to go into more detail on any of the steps in the comments below! And be sure to follow me on Instagram for more travel content.

mariss

The post How To Create A Travel Budget You Actually Stick To: 6 Easy Steps first appeared on MLE Travel Diary.

28 Essential Travel Tips You Need To Know In 2025

MLE Travel Diary — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 15:00:00 +0000

Having gone on over 100 flights in the last 5 years to visit 18 countries and 30 US States, I’ve learned a thing or two about traveling! I’ll be sharing my best travel tips and tricks to help you save time and money, and avoid the big mistakes I’ve made.

Travel doesn’t have to be overwhelming or super expensive! There are so many ways to simplify your itinerary, and go on your bucket list vacations without breaking the bank.

These travel tips are organized into 5 categories: Flights & Airlines, Money & Discounts, Packing & Essentials, Safety & Travel Smarts, and Lodging & Accommodation.

Even if you’re a seasoned traveler, I bet there are some travel tips in here you’ve never heard of! I still learn something new every week, and especially every time I go on another trip.

Flight & Airline Travel Tips

1. Take the first flight of the day to avoid delays.

Yes, waking up at the crack of dawn to rush to the airport is quite irritating. However, not only will this save you money, it’s been shown that this will help you avoid cancellations and flight delays.

According to Expedia’s 2025 Air Hacks report, flights that take off after 9 p.m. have a 57% higher chance of being cancelled compared to those that leave earlier in the day.

2. Sunday is the cheapest day to book your flight.

Tuesday is no longer the cheapest day of the week to book your flight. That day is now Sunday, which is great because it gives you all weekend to plan your trip and then you can solidify your flights on Sunday!

The cheapest days to fly are Saturday (domestic) and Thursday (international).

3. Wait to book your flight to snag the cheapest flights.

Personally, I like to book my flights ahead of time so I can get to planning the rest of my trip. However, flight prices tend to drop closer to departure than you think.

For US domestic flights, it’s recommended to book your flight 1 – 3 months in advance, with the lowest price being 38 days before departure.

For international flights, it’s recommended to book your flight as early as you can to get the best flight. Alternatively, you can wait until 18 – 29 days before departure to score a great deal.

However, this “deal” may include a very long layover, or less-than-ideal departure or arrival times.

I would recommend booking a refundable ticket as far out as you can, then keeping an eye on the flight prices to get a fare adjustment when the price drops.

4. Use a tool like Google Explore to find the cheapest flights to anywhere.

This is perfect for when your trip is flexible, whether that be your destination or timing. I like to use Google Explore, and have also heard good things about Skyscanner.

These tools allow you to set your departure airport and search for the cheapest flights all around the world. For example, here I can search for a 1-week trip in the next 6 months to anywhere in the world:

5. Always check prices at nearby airports.

Sometimes you can find a really great flight deal in/out of an airport that’s nearby that you wouldn’t normally consider!

For example in Los Angeles, instead of flying out of LAX, you can look at nearby airports like Burbank (BUR), Long Beach (LGB), and Orange County (SNA), to name a few.

I’ve also used these airports to reroute my trips in cases where my original flight to LAX got delayed or outright canceled. Always know your options!

6. Look into stopover programs for free flights through major cities.

A lot of major airlines that are based out of a single hub have stopover programs as a way to incentivize you to stay longer and explore that hub city.

Some programs will even give you free tours and/or hotels so you can really explore the city! Some of my bucket list cities you can explore for free are Abu Dhabi (Etihad), Istanbul (Turkish Airlines), and Lisbon (TAP Air Portugal).

Money & Discounts Travel Tips

7. Exchange money at your local bank before your trip for the best exchange rate.

And whatever you do, don’t exchange your money at the airport! Those little airport kiosk shops will give you the worst exchange rate.

You can usually just walk in without calling ahead for more mainstream currencies, like the Euro or Australia dollar. I would suggest calling your bank ahead of time to confirm.

8. Get a credit card that earns points / miles on every purchase.

This is a huge hack to getting to travel more for a lot less, and even for FREE! I have the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card and was able to use the sign up bonus for $2,000+ worth of free travel this year.

Unless you’re flying every other day for work throughout the year, it’s unlikely that you’ll ever accumulate enough points for status. I reached American Airlines Gold Status this year by putting a lot of big purchases on my credit card.

9. If given the choice, always pay in foreign currency.

This travel tip is referring to when you check out at a store in a foreign country, and the little machine asks you if you want to pay in their local currency or in USD.

Always pay in foreign currency, your credit card/bank will give a better rate than the little machine will.

10. Request a VAT refund form for big purchases.

When you’re shopping in European countries, make sure to request a VAT refund form while you’re IN the shop for any big purchases, usually over $50-100.

Check the VAT refund threshold ahead of time, depending on the country you’re visiting.

And then make sure to actually process that VAT refund form at the airport before you leave the European Union and head back home! Depending on how big your refund is, you may want to give yourself extra time at the airport in case of long lines.

11. You don’t need to be 50+ to sign up for AARP.

I learned this little fact recently; there is actually no age minimum for AARP. Which means that you can sign up today and start taking advantage of their discounted rates and programs!

12. Use airline shopping portals to earn extra miles on your everyday purchases.

Airline shopping portals are another way you can quickly earn status with your favorite airline, without constantly being a plane.

Read more about how to take advantage of these portals and other ways to earn free miles here.

13. Many airlines offer student discounts.

If you are a student, there are so many programs you can be using to travel for less! Many of the big airlines, including Delta, American and United, have student discount programs that let you save money on your flights.

Packing & Apps Travel Tips

14. Bring power bars to avoid spending money on snacks.

I always do this on all of my trips – also because I hate being hungry while I’m out and about exploring a new place! Bring a power bar for each day of your trip to save money on snacks.

My favorite is the Aloha Peanut Butter Cup bar – I got hooked on these years ago and haven’t looked back since. This is a small plug, but if you like this brand or want to try them out, you can use code MLE to save 25% on your order.

15. Pack old clothes you’re willing to leave behind.

This is one of my favorite underrated travel tips. I do this for two reasons.

Firstly, I like to have an outfit or two that I “don’t care” about in case my clothes got stolen or lost. And secondly, in the event I go shopping and run out of space in my suitcase, I like to have items that I’m willing to part with or donate to free up space!

16. Always pack an extra outfit and toiletries in your carry-on.

If you’re checking a bag, make sure to always pack toiletries and a change of clothes in your carry-on in case your luggage gets lost.

Even if your suitcase got delayed for a day or two, you’ll be so thankful that you have that spare outfit in the meantime! And definitely always keep your most important valuables on you in your carry-on.

17. Get a Kindle to save space.

This one makes me so sad because I LOVE reading an actual physical book. However, if you are low on space, I definitely recommend getting a Kindle or other e-reader.

18. Use the Timeshifter app to avoid jet lag.

The Timeshifter app is free to download, and will help you plan ahead so you can reduce jet lag! It will tell you when to drink caffeine and avoid sleeping, or vice versa, so you are best equipped to handle the time change when traveling.

19. Use the Calculator app to convert currency.

The iPhone’s built-in Calculator app now has a currency converter feature that you can use while you travel to easily figure out the price of something!

20. Download offline Google Maps to save data.

Before you leave for your trip, download the offline Google Maps area of where you’ll be visiting. This way you can walk around and get directions to where you want to go, without using your precious data.

This is also really great for trips to places like national parks, where cell service may be limited or even unavailable in certain parts.

21. Download Netflix shows before your flight.

You can do this with pretty much any streaming service you use; just use their app before you depart to download your favorite shows and movies.

You can even download YouTube videos and TikToks for viewing while you’re in airplane mode!

Safety & Smart Travel Tips

22. Always check visa requirements before traveling.

This one seems like it would be easy to remember, but entry requirements are always changing. In some cases, I would even suggest waiting until you get approved before booking your flights.

In fact, as of 2025 the UK now requires an ETA, and it is likely that by mid-2025, the EU will also require a travel authorization.

23. Make photo copies of your passport & important documents.

Before you leave, make sure you take photos of your passport and other important documents. I suggest sending these to yourself via email, as well as to a trusted friend/family member.

In case your passport ever gets lost or stolen, you will have a much easier time at the Embassy getting a temporary passport to get back into the United States.

24. Never eat at restaurants right next to major tourist attractions.

Always try to walk a few blocks away from major tourist attractions for cheaper and better food.

Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule. But as a rule of thumb, these spots tend to target tourists and will charge a premium.

Oh and another travel tip I heard – if there are photos on the restaurant’s menu, skip it.

25. Go grocery shopping while traveling.

This is a great way to save money while you travel! It’s really easy for meals to quickly add up while you’re constantly on the go.

I recommend heading to a grocery store right when you arrive to your destination to stock up on your favorite snacks and easy meals you can make at your hotel. For example, getting a loaf of bread and some peanut butter or sliced deli meat.

This is also a great way to check out the local snacks and food options! It’s actually one of my favorite activities when I travel – to see what their grocery stores have to offer, and how it’s different than the options in the US.

Lodging & Accommodation Travel Tips

26. Use clip hangers to keep hotel curtains fully closed.

This is one of the travel tips I learned from a fellow travel blogger – if you’re sensitive to light in your hotel room, use one of those clippy hangers to keep the curtains fully shut.

27. If you think you’re “too old” for a hostel, look into a co-living space.

If you think you’re “too old” for a hostel, try a co-living space instead. These are similar to hostels with shared amenities like bathrooms, kitchen, and lounge area, except you will usually get your own room.

These tend to draw in a lot of digital nomads, and is a great way to meet people with less of the “party” vibe that hostels can have.

28. Book hotels with a flexible cancellation policy.

I like to book my hotels as far in advance as I possible can with a 100% free cancellation policy. Keep checking prices before your trip, and rebook your hotel if prices drop.

This has helped me save so much money on my hotels, while also ensuring I get to stay where I want to!

I’ve also found that a lot of hotels won’t charge your credit card anyway until a few days before check-in, so there’s no harm in booking earlier.

Let me know your favorite travel tips in the comments below! And be sure to follow me on Instagram for more travel content.

mariss

The post 28 Essential Travel Tips You Need To Know In 2025 first appeared on MLE Travel Diary.

The Best Gifts For Travel Lovers This Holiday Season

MLE Travel Diary — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 19:33:40 +0000

Looking for the best gifts for travel lovers in your life this year? Whether you are shopping for a luxury solo traveler, or a budget foodie traveler, I’ve got you covered! Shopping during the holidays can be stressful and tiring; this guide is here to help.

As an avid traveler myself, I’ve personally tried the majority of these products to make sure they are as great as they claim to be! I’ll let you know when a gift idea is one of my tried and true favorites, and I bet there’s some gift ideas you haven’t thought of!

These gifts for travel lovers are organized by price point so you can easily search for the right gifts for the travel lovers in your life. I’ve kept it short and simple to hopefully inspire you this holiday season, without overwhelming you further!

Gifts Under $25

Apple AirTag

This is a must have when it comes to gifts for travel lovers! I have a bunch of these and use them to track my checked bags when I’m flying. It can easily be attached to any item, and it uses Apple’s Find My network to help you locate your items.

Travel Journal

This is especially great for the solo travelers in your life, so they can keep a record of all of their memories. I always bring a journal with me whenever I travel, and it is truly one of the best things to be able to look back on!

Octobuddy

If you’ve never heard of this, you’ll definitely want to be getting this for every solo traveler! This sticks onto the back of your phone and has 24 suction cups that grip mirrors, windows, and any smooth surface for steady, hands-free video and selfies.

Portable Charger

I use my portable charger even when I’m not traveling, but this has come in handy so many times during my travels. It allows you to charge your devices on the go, including in airports when outlets can be hard to find!

Gifts Under $50

Packing Cubes

These are ideal for maximizing space with packing your carry-on, so that you don’t have to pay for a checked bag! I got these as a gift last year and love them – it also helps to keep my things organized which can be tough when I’m traveling to a bunch of different spots in one trip.

Bucket List Travel Water Bottle

I have the 50 States Bucket List Water Bottle and am obsessed! This is such a fun way to keep track of everywhere you’ve been and what is still left to cross off your list!

Plus, it’s very functional and keeps your drink insulated for 24 hours.

Manta Sleep Mask

This is the BEST sleep mask – almost everyone in my family has one now haha I have this one and also their silk sleep mask. It totally blocks out the light, and I love that the eye cups are adjustable so you can position the mask to fit your face perfectly.

AllTrails+ Subscription

For the avid hiker you’re shopping for, an AllTrails+ subscription is sure to be a hit! The subscription improves hikers’ safety – it gives you the ability to download offline maps (most hiking trails have pretty bad cell reception), get alerts for wrong turns, know conditions before you go, and more!

Gifts Under $100

Aesop Chicago City 9-Piece Travel Kit

This travel kit is perfect for city travel, and something I’ve personally used! It smells great and makes travel so easy. It comes with Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Cleanser, Facial Cleanser Toothpaste, Mouthwash and more.

AirFly Pro Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter

The AirFly Pro allows you to connect your wireless headphones to be able to watch movies on the plane! I recently tried this out for the first time and it was game-changing (I usually just watched the movies with the subtitles and no audio haha so this was much better).

Portable Monitor

A portable monitor is a must for all digital nomad travelers. It allows you to easily work on the go, from wherever you are!

I have personally used this one and can confirm it’s great! Lightweight, easy to put in your backpack, and at a great price.

Free People T-Shirt & Joggers Set

Having a cute, comfortable set to wear on long travel days is key to surviving those long flights! I love this one from Free People – it’s super cute and soft, and is high quality so it will last a long time.

Gifts Under $200

DJI Neo Mini Drone

This is a great gift for solo travelers, as it is super easy to use, can take off right out of your palm, and has subject tracking! I just bought one of these for myself for my upcoming solo trips – no more asking people to take videos of you! I find that it’s a really great beginner drone.

Paper Shoot Camera

The Paper Shoot Camera is the modern version of a disposable camera. It is super thin and light (so the perfect travel companion) and removes the cost and time of developing film! It’s great for casual and amateur photographers, much like myself.

Kindle Paperwhite

A Kindle is perfect for any travelers who love to read! It’s tough to bring books when you travel, since they take up so much space – a Kindle helps reduce the amount of space needed and they can read as many books as they want on vacation!

Tinggly Experience Gift Box

Tinggly lets you gift an experience to your travel lover, rather than struggling to choose a gift for them. They have gift boxes at all price points, and this will let them choose their own activity from Tinggly’s vast library of experiences!

There is also no expiration date on these experiences.

Send this to someone who needs a hint on the best gifts for travel lovers! 😉 For more content like this, follow along on Instagram!

mariss

The post The Best Gifts For Travel Lovers This Holiday Season first appeared on MLE Travel Diary.

4 Simple Ways To Find Insta-Worthy Spots For Your Next Trip

MLE Travel Diary — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Want to find all the insta-worthy spots before your next trip to help map out your itinerary? I’ve got all the best tips for you!

Today I’ll be sharing 4 of my favorite ways to find those perfect backdrops for your Instagram content, including some cool apps you likely haven’t heard of yet!

And if Instagram isn’t necessarily your “thing” – don’t worry! These resources will also be useful just in general to help plan your trip.

Sometimes I’ve stumbled upon the COOLEST hidden gems inadvertently while exploring a popular tourist destination. Plus making the best memories from just getting out and exploring!

1. Instagram

First and foremost, and perhaps the most obvious, is Instagram! Whenever I’m headed to a new destination, I always search for big accounts that focus on that city.

You can search for keywords like “Visit __” and “Explore ___” and “___ Bucket List” – fill in the blank with the city you’re visiting. What I like about these accounts is they’re usually the first to post about new and unique events happening in their city!

I feel like too Instagram *knows* when you’re interested in a certain location, and will show you content in that area. Like this hidden gem Church with a stunning painted ceiling I found on Instagram:

2. NoFilter App

NoFilter is a free app you can download and use to find cool photo locations anywhere in the world! I like this app because there’s a map tab, which you can use to find nearby photo spots!

You can also add your own photos if you’ve found a hidden gem and want to share it with the world.

What’s nice is that while anyone can post a photo, not all photos automatically get approved and added. So it’s not cluttered with tons of the same locations or fake photo spots – they’re all vetted and legitimate!

3. Thatch Guides

Thatch is a website where travel creators can post guides and itineraries to places they’ve visited, or also offer their planning services. It’s very user-friendly, and there are new guides getting added each day.

Plus creators can add their own notes for each of the spots they include in their guides! This makes it super personal and also gives you more insight into each location.

Each guide contains locations on a map, so you can get a sense of where the spots are located. You can also create your own guides on the site and import locations from Google Maps! H er e’s a link to some of my guides, or you can explore all destinations!

4. Explorest Photo Locations

Explorest is another app you can download to find photo locations all around the world! It’s pretty cool since it gives you the exact coordinates of each spot, which really helps because sometimes they can be hard to find.

The photo locations have been added by professional photographers and travel experts, so you know these are gonna be great picks.

I really like that they give you tips as well on how easy to is to access, if there are any fees, and what to pack!

What’s your favorite way to find insta-worthy spots on your trips? For more content like this, follow along on Instagram!

mariss

The post 4 Simple Ways To Find Insta-Worthy Spots For Your Next Trip first appeared on MLE Travel Diary.

I Got A Refund With Google Flights Price Guarantee

MLE Travel Diary — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 14:00:00 +0000

This past summer I booked a flight using Google Flights price guarantee, and actually got a refund! It was less than $30 so not crazy but hey, enough to buy us a meal on our trip!

To be honest, I wasn’t exactly sure if and how this would actually work. So I am very pleased to confirm the entire process was legitimate and very easy. I am overall very happy with the new feature and excited for what’s to come!

What is Google Flights Price Guarantee?

Google Flights Price Guarantee is a new pilot program they are testing on eligible flights originating in the United States. The simple premise is that Google will monitor your flights for you and refund you if the price drops before you take off.

The Guarantee is essentially saying “we believe this flight cost will not get any lower.” This is super helpful too to get a sense of when you should book your trip, as it’s signaling that the flight is a good price.

This is incredible because although many airlines will refund you if the price drops, it requires you to be tracking the price of your flight and reach out or rebook when it drops. Which oftentimes is just not worth the time or effort required to actually get your money back.

As of right now, you can earn up to $500 USD back per calendar year on up to 3 Price guarantee bookings.

How do I know if my flight is eligible?

If you want to book a flight with the price guarantee, you’ll have to book through google.com/travel/flights. Then, look for this rainbow shield icon with the $ sign in the middle!

From there, just continue booking as normal on Google Flights.

Disclaimer: this is currently only available on flights originating in the US (as of October 2023 when this was posted). Hopefully it expands to other countries soon!

How will I know if I get a refund?

The best part about this is that, after you’ve booked the flight, you literally need to do nothing else. Google will be tracking the price of the flight you booked, and alert you if it drops. You can see the email I received when my flight price dropped:

Google keeps monitoring literally until the first flight in your itinerary takes off! Then, they’ll email you after your flight with the total amount you are getting back.

How do I get my money?

After your flight, Google Flights will send you another email that will look similar to the one above, but with your total amount back. There will be instructions and a link to the Google Pay app, where you are able to cash out.

You will need to download the Google Pay app to access your money. From there, you have a few options to use that money. For example, you can use it to pay for things using Google Pay or transfer it to your bank account.

I transferred it to my bank account, and it arrived within 2-3 days.

P.S. you have 90 days to claim your refund amount! So make sure you go in there ASAP to get your well deserved money back!

This feature was amazing and I would definitely book a flight with Google Flights Price Guarantee again! If you have any additional questions, feel free to leave a comment below or send me a message on Instagram!

mariss

The post I Got A Refund With Google Flights Price Guarantee first appeared on MLE Travel Diary.

4 Unique Ways To Workout While Traveling

MLE Travel Diary — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 14:00:00 +0000

If you’re anything like me, you probably want to keep up your routine and workout while traveling! Which can mean getting creative with it, depending on what is available around you!

When I’m searching for hotels to stay in, one of the things I look for is whether or not they have a gym. This isn’t the ultimate deciding factor, but is definitely a big factor for me.

There is, of course, the fact that you’ll likely be walking a TON while you’re out exploring. However, I’ve compiled this list in case you’re looking for ways to get in a more official workout! #4 is my favorite.🙌🏼

1. Get a day pass to a local gym

If your hotel doesn’t have a gym, your next best option is to find one in the area. I suggest just googling some near you, or searching around on Google Maps. A popular site and app to locate some is TrainAway – I haven’t personally used this but have heard good things.

When I was in Barcelona, I just googled gyms near me and a bunch of them had day and week passes! I called ahead to check the prices and availability. It was super easy to just walk in and do my workout for the day!

2. Go for a run around your new city

If you don’t want to pay for gym access, there are lots of other options for you! One of my favorite ways to check out a new city I’m in, is to go for a run! You get to see what’s around you and earmark spots to check out later.

I’ll caveat this one by saying definitely use your judgement in terms of safety when just running around, especially if you’re alone. I like to do this with another person, or in a city where I feel very safe. For example, when I moved to Boston for 3 months last summer I ran around the neighborhood and areas I knew to be safe to familiarize myself.

3. Try a suitcase workout

If you don’t have access to weights or a proper gym, the suitcase workout could be perfect for you. Basically, you can fill your bag or suitcase with however much weight (using your clothes, shoes, etc) you want and then use it to workout!

This concept is so funny to me, but you can actually get such a good workout in! There’s a lot of different exercises you can do; here is a list for some examples.

4. On-demand classes

My gym membership includes a ton of on-demand classes through the app, which have come in SO handy when I travel. I usually like to take the Pilates classes, as they can be done anywhere! You can also find a ton of on-demand workout classes on YouTube!

These are great because you can literally just do them on your hotel room floor.😂 Ideally there will be a hotel gym where you can go and use a mat there, but totally don’t need it!

Comment your favorite workout below! If you have any questions or are looking for more tips, send me a message on Instagram!

mariss

The post 4 Unique Ways To Workout While Traveling first appeared on MLE Travel Diary.

How To Save Money To Travel? 5 Things I Do

MLE Travel Diary — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Wondering how to save money to travel more? A common misconception is that you need a lot of money to travel; this prevented me from traveling for years! I’m here to tell you that isn’t true. BUT I do think if you’re looking to prioritize travel, getting your finances under control is essential.

I’ll be sharing 5 things I do to help save money for travel, including tips to earn extra money and tips to cut back on your expenses! I promise, it is possible and SO worth it!

1. Set an annual travel budget (and stick to it!)

First thing I do at the start of each year (or honestly usually before then) is set my travel budget. I usually start with the total amount I’m comfortable spending throughout the entire year.

Then, I’ll list out the big and small trips I want to take. From here, I’ll do a bit of research (googling flights, hotels, activities, etc) to get an estimate of total costs per trip. In terms of food + activities, I use an average between $20 – $100 per day, depending on where I’m visiting.

As I start booking the travel and finalizing the costs, I update my spreadsheet to see where I land overall. I also use this to gauge how much extra money I can spend on my trip.

For example, if my flights were less than I anticipated, I’ll give myself a little extra spending money each day. Or if my flights were more than budgeted, I’ll look for slightly cheaper hotels to balance out the costs.

2. Start to track your spending

In addition to my travel budget, I also have a super detailed monthly budget. Every few months I sit down and make sure my budget is aligned with my values, and also that it’s realistic.

Go through your spending and make a column of “Needs” and a column of “Wants.” From there, determine your major categories – food, car, clothing, household, etc – and then break down your categories even further. For example, in my “Car” category, I have monthly payment, gas, parking and maintenance.

Every time I make a purchase, I add it to my spreadsheet. I think this is so important so you can see where every single dollar is coming and going.

This can definitely be scary, especially if it’s the first time you’re really looking at your finances. But I promise you, knowing is so much better than not knowing. And you don’t even have to change anything right away! Just being aware of your spending is a great start.

3. Examine your recurring expenses

Look for small ways to reduce your monthly expenses! Especially in categories that are not your top 3 priorities. My top 3 priorities are travel (of course haha), health and my cat. So anything not in those categories I look to reduce as much as possible.

If you have multiple streaming services (Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, etc), can you reduce it to just your one favorite? If you have an expensive gym membership you never use, can you switch to a less expensive gym or use ClassPass?

I used to have a pretty bad online shopping addiction and can honestly say I no longer randomly buy a ton of stuff online to make myself feel better. It took many, many iterations of these budgeting exercises though haha so not to worry if you aren’t there yet!

4. Find a side hustle that you enjoy

Nowadays with technology, you literally have so many opportunities at your fingertips to make money. What do you enjoy doing that someone would be willing to pay you for?

Do you love animals? Definitely check out Rover! You can house pets in your own home, or just stop by for visits! Many of my friends have had a lot of success with this app.

Do you have handy skills or the ability to do physical labor? Check out TaskRabbit! You can see what other people are offering, and set your own tasks and rates.

Do you have extra clothes laying around collecting dusk? Check out Mercari or Poshmark to start selling your old clothes for cash!

Do you like to create video content in your spare time for fun? Check out Billo where you can make videos for brands! If you want a $10 bonus, use the referral code 3HO7Y when signing up.

I feel like this section just turned into a big sales pitch for all these apps haha but seriously – so many ways to make a few extra bucks for spending money on your next vacation! You’ll also get a little extra bonus if you sign up with any of those links.☺️

5. Proactively limit your spending

What is your worst money habit? Whatever it is, figure out a way to proactively limit your ability to spend money that way. I read this tip in one of my favorite books, “Your Money or Your Life” and it totally changed my outlook.

Do you online shop so much that your card information is stored on your laptop/phone? Delete out your saved information so you need to type out your card number each time. Or do you have your credit card number memorized? Get a new card!

Whatever you need to do to add an additional step and force yourself to have a second thought about your purchase. It’s crazy how many things we buy “without thinking about it,” and it can really add up!

For example, I realized that I was spending a lot of extra money when I would go for walks because it was so easy to purchase things with Apple Pay! So, I literally just removed Apple Pay from my phone, making it harder for me to spend money unnecessarily.

Comment your best money-saving tip below! If you have any questions or are looking for more tips, send me a message on Instagram!

mariss

The post How To Save Money To Travel? 5 Things I Do first appeared on MLE Travel Diary.

Carry-On Vs. Checked Bag: How To Decide Which Is Better

MLE Travel Diary — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Trying to decide if you should travel with a carry-on only or check a bag on your next trip? I’ve put together some guidelines I use to determine whether or not a checked bag is necessary! As well as tips when it comes to choosing your airline, and their baggage policies.

When it comes to travel, there is always the risk of the airline losing your bag, which is why I try to go carry-on only! If you are bringing a checked bag, I highly recommend throwing an Apple AirTag in there. For less than $30, you can have that peace of mind on every trip that you will know where your bag is at all times!

When A Carry-On Is Better

Let me start off by saying that I am a big advocate of taking a carry-on only! Situations where I believe just taking a carry-on bag is better:

You are going away for 3 days or less (aka a short weekend trip).
You will be hopping around to multiple locations, not spending more than 3 days in each (ie a multi-stop Europe trip. Last thing you want is your bag getting lost on one of the many legs!)
You are going to visit a close friend. I say this because that usually means their closet = your closet when you’re there (and vice versa) so you should not need to pack as many clothes!

I’ll splurge on a nice hotel room, but when it comes to flights, I am so stubborn and never want to pay for anything extra.

I highly recommend getting yourself some packing cubes; these have changed the game for me! My brother got them for me for my birthday, and they made such a difference when I was packing for my most recent trip. Not to mention, my suitcase was a lot more organized.😂

When A Checked Bag Is Better

Although I would love to always be able to travel with just a carry-on, this is not always possible! Situations where I believe taking a checked bag is better:

You are planning to work remotely for an extended period of time (2+ weeks), and need to bring an external monitor.
You are going away for 5+ days to one location only.
You are going to a special event and need to take a lot of shoes and outfits (ie, a wedding – just make sure you put your first two nights of outfits in your carry-on!)
You have large liquids you need to bring.

It can also be very inconvenient to separate out all of your liquids, electronics, etc when going through security. Since you drop off your checked bag before security, that makes it a more appealing option if you have a lot of things you’d need to pull out to get through TSA.

Make Sure To Check Airline Policies

Now that most airlines have their own “budget” economy option, it is extra important to check the airline’s policies! Most of the budget economy options don’t even include a carry-on item, but only allow you to have a personal item. AKA a bag or backpack that fits underneath the seat in front of you. I have done this before when going to Hawaii, because everything I was packing was small!

Make sure to also check weight limits for carry-on bags and personal items. Many airlines, especially in Europe I’ve noticed, have weight maximums for carry-on bags, and will require you to pay to check your bag if it’s over the limit. All of these restrictions will be listed on the website; if you can’t find it, just google “[airline name] + baggage policy.”

I exclusively flew Southwest Airlines when I was working remotely and traveling around. Why? Because their fares include two FREE checked bags on every flight for every passenger. This is an unreal policy and can save you so much money if you need to check bags.

How do you usually prefer to travel? Comment below! And be sure to follow along on Instagram for more travel tips and content!

mariss

The post Carry-On Vs. Checked Bag: How To Decide Which Is Better first appeared on MLE Travel Diary.