Navigating the large pool of travel websites to plot and plan our long-anticipated getaways can end up taking more time than the actual holiday. From unearthing flight deals and deciding which reputable company to rent a car from to lodging that fits your needs and excursions that'll create unforgettable moments, there's a website for seemingly everything. We need search engines that are efficient, informative, inspiring, and will save us the most money, of course. So, we're taking out the guess work with this narrowed-down round-up of the top 10 travel websites to tap into this year when researching your trip. Bon voyage!
For searching and comparing flights without the limit of having to provide an exact destination, Skyscanner is a top contender for flight hunting. The search tool allows you to type in a region, or even "everywhere," showing the best deals for travellers with some flexibility and open to flying in or out of various spots. The map option adds a more visual way to explore destinations as well as some inspiration to help make your holiday decision.
One of the top sites for lodging options, Airbnb offers the hotel alternative for travellers looking for more of a home-like feel where they slumber. Whether you're looking for a weekend stint or a more long term rental, the large database of properties run by locals all over the world is a popular choice. From large homes in the countryside to city centre apartments to unique lodgings like house boats and tree houses, Airbnb has something for every traveller's need . . . including the "experiences" section for locally guided activities.
For a one-stop-shop search engine, Kayak does a solid job. Other than comparing flight prices, travellers can also search hotels, car rentals, travel packages deals, and even cruises. The ability to put in flexible dates (plus or minus up to three days of your chosen date), is a great tool to view price differences based on day of travel. Holding out for the best possible deal? Set an alert and they'll let you know when your preferred option is in your price range.
For travellers craving a local experience, WithLocals is a fantastic resource for booking activities and excursions with, well, locals. With over 2000 experiences in over 88 destinations, the site has a plethora of authentic tours to choose from, run by verified hosts. Private and personalized, the listings are tailored to every type of traveller; adventure, family, foodie, etc. From strolling through Paris with a photographer to sampling street food in Thailand, we dare you not to find something appealing.
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5. Glamping Hub
Not just glamping, the unique lodging website Glampinghub presents numerous sleeping options for travellers interested in staying closer to nature. Looking for a remote cabin? No problem. Luxury camping? Done. Sleepover in a tipi? Well, sure. The "travel trends" section of the site provides inspiration for explorers contemplating their next getaway. With search options for pet-friendly accommodations and glamping with hot tubs, there really is something for everyone.
Another top site for flight seeking and comparing, Google Flights makes it easy to scour for deals and set fare alerts to snag the best one. Exploring destinations via the site's map is a welcome option for travellers that are flexible with their holiday. You may go into it thinking Spain but Greece happens to be cheaper, so, opa!
For adventures looking to hit the road to explore their own backyard or far away locations, Roadtrippers is a great resource for trip planning from point A to point B, and all the fun detours in between. Going the extra mile (pun intended), the site also provides a selection of trip guides for some major inspiration. If you're looking for a classic American holiday, jazz up your road trip with ease by searching the site for off the beaten path suggestions along your way. Bonus: the new "plus" upgrade lets users download offline maps for access even in remote locations.
A flight search engine that specialises in stopovers, Airwander is newer to the game and helps travellers add in free stopovers (over 24 hours) in locations based on their destinations and days of travel. This new(ish)-fangled method allows you to explore an extra city on your way to the main meal of your holiday – like two getaways in one! And for the best deal, to boot.
The notion of sleeping in a room of bunk beds in close proximity to seven (give or take) snoring strangers on your holiday might not seem like the most appealing option for lodging. However, Hostelworld isn't just that classic idea of hostel-ing. Hostels are known for being budget-friendly, and a great way to meet like-minded travellers, especially for solo explorers. They're becoming even cooler, encourageing travellers to be social in some amazing common spaces. Many offer private rooms and even private bathrooms, amping up the hostel game for those who aren't into re-living their college days. Still not your thing? The site also has hotels and bed & breakfast options.
With the ability to search everything-under-the-sun travel-wise, Tripadvisor also offers a community of helpful forums for travellers to ask and answer questions for others, helping with research and planning for destinations worldwide. From flights and lodging (including holiday rentals) to where to find dinner and even cruising, they seem to do it all.