The Most Visited Countries in the World (and Where to Go Instead)Is your dream destination overcrowded? A study by safari travel company Go2Africa identified the top five most-visited countries by international tourists, revealing tourist crowds numbering in the hundreds of millions.While these countries are undeniably bucket list destinations, there are plenty of alternate destinations that are equally worth the trip. These destinations share similar features that entice large crowds, but also offer a unique culture and character all their own. These are the Nov 06 25November 06, 2025Article at smartertravel.com
The Most Effective Money Saving Travel TipsBudgeting for a trip is no easy task. Flights and hotels add up fast, not to mention expenses like restaurants, last-minute tickets, and sneaky souvenir shopping that pile up during the trip itself. Put a little money back in your pocket for your next trip with these money-saving travel tips. Oct 31 25October 31, 2025Article at smartertravel.com
Use Your Phone Abroad Cheaply With eSIMsStaying connected while traveling has historically come at a cost. High daily fees for international roaming and charges by the minute for long-distance calls can leave a hefty bill waiting for you when you return home. An old-school solution would be to swap your SIM card for a local number, a time-consuming hassle that still doesn’t solve the issue of international calls. However, the rise of eSIMs in recent years makes it easier than ever to stay connected— without the high phone bill. Oct 22 25October 22, 2025Article at smartertravel.com
How to Sleep Better While TravelingVacations are a time to rest and recharge from daily life — in theory. In reality, a packed trip may leave you more tired than before departure. Whether you're having trouble adjusting to a new routine or skipping sleep to see the sights, here are some of the reasons your trip is leaving you exhausted and how to address them. Sep 16 25September 16, 2025Article at smartertravel.com
Two Prices, One Landmark: Tiered Pricing ExplainedBefore you head out for a day of sightseeing, you may want to throw a few extra dollars in your wallet. At popular attractions around the world, travelers may be greeted with two sets of entry fees: one for locals and one for tourists. Confused? Here’s what you need to know about tiered pricing before your next trip. Sep 11 25September 11, 2025Article at smartertravel.com
This Rental Company’s New AI Damage Detector Could Cost You BigYou’ve just returned from a long vacation and dropped off your rental car without a scratch — or so you thought. With new AI inspection technology, you could find yourself billed for damage the human eye failed to notice. This is what happened to one unfortunate traveler last month who found themselves slammed with a $440 bill just minutes after dropping off the keys. The bill—which included $190 worth of processing and administrative fees—was for a one-inch tire scuff uncovered by Hertz's new A Jul 24 25July 24, 2025Article at smartertravel.com
How to Survive a Road Trip With Your PetHitting the open road with your pet can be the adventure of a lifetime. However, everything from the logistics of on-the-road bathroom breaks to unexpected paperwork can make the experience less than enjoyable. Here's what you need to know to ensure a smooth, stress-free road trip with your four-legged friend. Jul 07 25July 07, 2025Article at smartertravel.com
The Ultimate Guide to Traveling With Your PetTaking your pet along for an extended trip can ease some of that homesickness. However, the logistics can be intimidating. Read on to learn all you need to know about traveling with your furry friend. Jun 20 25June 20, 2025Article at smartertravel.com
How I Packed for a Multi-Country Trip in Just a Backpack_Click, click, enter._That was how easy it was for me to book a last-minute trip to Canada and New York City less than a month before departure. Some creative booking got me significant discounts, but at a cost—my flight touched down at Toronto-Pearson (you can read about_that_bumpy ride in my flight review ) in the early morning while my rental wouldn't be ready for check-in until 4 pm. The solution to avoid lugging around a wheeled suitcase while I explored the city? Pack for my five-day inter Jun 12 25June 12, 2025Article at smartertravel.com
What They Don’t Tell You About River CruisingWhat would you do if you were suddenly asked to disembark your luxurious river cruise for the bumpy upholstered seats of a motorcoach? It may sound like a travel nightmare, but it's a reality for some unlucky cruisers. Read on to find out what could cause your river cruise to turn into a bus tour and what to expect if it happens to you. Jun 02 25June 02, 2025Article at smartertravel.com
The Hidden Costs of RV RentalsThe sun is shining, flowers are blooming, and hitting the open road has never looked more appealing. Hopping in an RV is a great way to travel without getting bogged down in hotel reservations or high nightly rates. However, a few hidden costs can sneak up on unsuspecting renters new to the RV life. Watch out for these extra expenses when planning an RV vacation this summer. May 20 25May 20, 2025Article at smartertravel.com
Secret Perks You Can Ask for on CruisesSetting sail on a cruise ship without a care in the world is already a pretty sweet deal. But savvy travelers know there are still ways to level up the onboard experience. Take note of these hidden perks and benefits to guarantee smooth sailing on your next cruise. May 14 25May 14, 2025Article at smartertravel.com
Where to Stay in Paris: 5 Non-Touristy NeighborhoodsEvery year, the City of Lights draws millions of starry-eyed travelers with its romantic atmosphere, iconic landmarks, and rich history. In fact, Paris consistently ranks in the top five most visited cities in the world. With its particular_je ne sais quois_beckoning crowds year-round, it's unsurprising that the areas hosting the most popular attractions have shifted focus to more touristy pursuits. Whether you want to get a better picture of everyday Paris or want to stay somewhere you can avoi Mar 27 25March 27, 2025Article at Oyster
Do You Need an International Driver's License to Rent a Car Abroad?Find out which destinations require an international driver’s license and how to apply for one before your next trip. Mar 14 25March 14, 2025Article at smartertravel.com
The Best Ways to Kill Time at the AirportIt can be a drag to kick off a much-awaited vacation with more waiting. If you have hours to spare before boarding, keep yourself occupied with these tricks to kill time at the airport. Mar 07 25March 07, 2025Article at smartertravel.com
How to Avoid the Most Expensive Mistakes Most Travelers MakeAvoid these common booking, payment, and planning travel mistakes to save your vacation budget. Mar 06 25March 06, 2025Article at smartertravel.com
What is Home Exchange? | SmarterTravelEverything you need to know about swapping homes with a stranger, from setting up an account to preparing for your first guest. Dec 13 24December 13, 2024Article at smartertravel.com
How to Beat the Airport Rush This Holiday Season | SmarterTravelThe top five need-to-know tips to avoid getting stuck in traffic on your way to catch your flight home for the holidays. Dec 11 24December 11, 2024Article at smartertravel.com
How to Effectively Layer for Any Kind of Fall TripTraveling is hard enough. Don’t make it worse by wearing the wrong thing and being uncomfortable throughout your trip. You want to be dry, comfortable, and at a good temperature from the minute you leave your hotel in the morning until you crash at… Oct 10 24October 10, 2024Article at smartertravel.com
7 Easy Tips to Plan Your Perfect StaycationWith flight prices on the rise, there’s something appealing about becoming a tourist in your own city. Here are a few ways to have a vacation without ever leaving home. What is a Staycation? A portmanteau of the words “stay” and “vacation,” a… Jul 29 24July 29, 2024Article at smartertravel.com