8 Must-Have Items For Surviving Overnight Bus Rides

Traveling overnight can be an inexpensive way to get somewhere and is sometimes your only option for transportation. 

And if it's a long trip, you might as well get some rest without having to pay another night's accommodation.

We traveled by private coach bus at my job in Europe and would leave on Thursday evenings. While some trips were only a few hours each way, others took all night. Florence to Budapest, Hungary; Florence to Split, Croatia; and Florence to Prague, Czech Republic were a few trips in particular where we would be traveling for 10-12 hours straight. By the time we arrived, it would be morning of the next day and we'd be off to start the trip's activities.

Being comfortable and having at least a semi-decent night's sleep on the overnight bus or train is essential. If you're not somewhat well rested, then the next day will just drag on as you attempt to explore through weary eyes and a cranky attitude.

Whether you're on a bus, train, or even a long haul flight, there are essentials you must bring with to ensure the most comfortable night possible: 

Earbuds/Headphones

For entertanment, to keep out miscellaneous noise, or to help you wind down.  

Scarf  

Whether you're a guy or a girl, you'll benefit from having a scarf with you. As a fashion statement or as simply something to keep warm, a scarf is a must-have. I've used scarves for many reasons, but mostly to keep warm or as a pillow. 

Makeshift "bed" items: neck pillow and travel sized blanket 

 To get some real sleep, you'll need to be as comfortable as possible without sacrificing room in your luggage. A neck pillow will be worth it after traveling for hours on end, and if you forget a scarf (or don't have a scarf that's good enough for the occasion) then a travel blanket (compact, warm but thin, and enough to cover at least your legs) will do.   

Melatonin 

This is an over-the-counter sleep aid that makes you tired. It's nice to have on hand when you have a long journey and just want to sleep through it all.

Sunglasses and/or eye shades

Because there are windows, which means sun in your eyes during the day or headlights from oncoming traffic at night.

Water bottle and snacks

Overnight journeys tend to be long, and you don't want to go without water or food if you're not stopping along the way. 

Portable phone charger 

If you're like most people, you probably charge your phone while you're asleep. Having a portable battery pack is handy for overnight rides, since oftentimes you'll be without a power source to charge your phone for a night. This way you'll have your phone ready to use the next day when you're out exploring.

Pocket Coffee 

Some countries in Europe sell Pocket Coffee, which is a packet that includes bite-sized chocolates that are filled with a liquid shot of espresso. These are so nice to have on hand for the next morning when you need an extra jolt! Otherwise, definitely grab a coffee or fresh glass of water when you arrive to get energized for the day!

Travel Tips: Ways To Save Money While You Travel

This is the second part to Travel Tips: How To Save Money For Travel.Now that we've covered a few ways to budget and save before you travel, here are some ways to save while you travel.

Make Money While You Travel

Work abroad, freelance, or work remotely: Working abroad is how I funded going back to Europe twice after college. Whether it's a short term trip and your company pays for you to go there or you're living abroad and working overseas, working as you travel is one of the smartest ways to cut travel costs. Yes, your job is your priority, but even if you have less freedom in your day-to-day schedule, you still get to travel.

This article lists 11 ways to make money while you travel. Some of these are pretty awesome jobs, and if you love what you do, it won't even feel like "work."

Ways To Save Money While You Travel

1. Shop at street food, markets, and grocery stores for food

Eating out should definitely be on your itinerary when you travel! Though you don't necessarily need to go to restaurants for every meal. You can find street food in just about any city, as well as grocery stores (which are great for snacks and pre-made meals like sandwiches). Head to the town's local market for fresh fruit and vegetables and other quick bites.

2. Walk and use public transportation

Rental cars and taxis add up. Plus, you tend to see much more of the city when you walk and pick up on things you wouldn't see otherwise.

3. Bring a refillable water bottle

Another way to curb your costs is to use a refillable water bottle. (Get one with a built-in filter if you're wary about the water). It helps the environment and keeps you hydrated. You can fill it up at your hotel or at a drinking fountain instead of searching for a grocery store - and buying yet another one - when your bottles runs out.

4. Skimp on souvenirs and spend on experiences

Do you really need another magnet, shot glass, or souvenir t-shirt? Spend your money on experiences instead. Take photos and/or videos as a "souvenir" of your amazing time zip lining in Costa Rica or sky diving in Switzerland. Memories last a lifetime - unlike your shot glass that broke in your suitcase on the way back home.

5. Go during the shoulder season if possible

Airfare and hotels are notorious for having outrageous prices during the high season. Which makes sense, since most people can only travel at certain times of the year (like summer or holidays). Crowds are at their busiest and entry lines to attractions are at their longest during the high season. If you can go during the off season (or "shoulder season," which is a few weeks before/after high season), then you're likely to save more than a few bucks on your trip.

6. Carry on your luggage

Checking a bag time and time again can add up, especially if you're taking multiple flights. Excess luggage weight adds even more fees. Try to carry-on as much as possible to avoid this - and the possibility of having your luggage lost. Here's an article with tips on how to pack for 2 weeks with just a carry-on bag.

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Travel Tips: How To Save Money For Travel

Spending money on travel is by far the best thing I've spent money on to date. Growing up, I would always insert money from babysitting and birthdays into my savings account, but I didn't know what I would spend it on. When the time came to study abroad in college over sophomore summer, I went to the bank, took out almost the entirety of my savings, and paid my tuition.

Since then, I've been able to save money for travel in other ways - whether it's working abroad or working full time to save for a trip. Here are a few ways to travel without emptying out your savings account, and how to budget beforehand.

Oh, and don't worry, this isn't another list insisting you give up your daily Starbucks - I happily drink my tall iced coffees daily and still put aside money for travel!

Ways To Save Before a Trip

1. Get a second job ...but don't overwork yourself to the point past exhaustion. If you're already working full time, consider getting a side gig on the weekends.

I worked at a restaurant on the weekends for the past six months, which has brought in hundreds of extra dollars per month. If that seems like too much of a time commitment, you don't have to get a traditional part-time job on the side - consider odd jobs like babysitting or house sitting for more flexibility.

2. Separate your direct deposit paycheck

Put a certain percentage into each of your checking and savings accounts. Keep just your monthly budget in your one account, and don't spend more than that. Physically seeing that you only have $50 in your account till your next paycheck will make it much easier to not buy those new designer shoes.

When you're tempted to dip into your savings for something unnecessary, remind yourself that soon you'll be using it on a trip. Your future self will thank you.

3. Bring your lunch to work This is one thing I've been doing more often. I'm not a fan of cooking, preparing, or even eating food from home (I'm lazy when it comes to cooking) so this took a while for me to begin doing regularly.

When I compared my food spending to last month, I've saved about $300 by bringing my lunch. $300 can go pretty far in some countries.

4. Sell your clothes Do you have old clothes sitting in your closet that you know you'll never wear? (Or those clothes that you think you just might find a use for?)

If you haven't worn them in over a year, you won't even notice they're gone. Anything that's still in decent condition can be sold online. I use Tradesy, but eBay or similar sites work as well.

5. Watch TV online instead of paying for cable

Hulu, Netflix, and YouTube are your friends, allowing you free or inexpensive access to television. If you're going to be traveling anyways, you won't want to be paying for cable when you're abroad, right?

Traveling somewhere where the above sites aren't available? Try this handy trick.

Keep up the inspiration: Make a vision board, Pinterest board, or whatever you need for a visual reminder of why you're saving. It could even be your desktop wallpaper of a map or a photo of your number one destination. Something that serves as a visual reminder to keep you motivated!

Check out the second piece of this article on ways to save money while you're traveling.

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10 Tips For Visiting Italy

Bellagio Lake Como

Heading to Italy? If so, I'm jealous really excited for you. It's a beautiful country with so much to see, do, and explore. Read on for tips on how "grazie" is actually pronounced, what the bread on the table is really for, and how to drink coffee at an espresso bar.

10 Tips For Visiting Italy

10 tips italy

1. Go to the Amalfi Coast, despite the number of tourists. The beauty of the pastel houses built into the side of the cliffs, citrus scent in the air from the lemon groves, swimming in the Blue Grotto, and boating around the Mediterranean make it totally worth it.

2. Pack light. Those narrow sidewalks and cobblestone streets will not be friendly to heavy luggage.

Florence

3. Drinking coffee: go to the bar (sometimes called snack bar) and order espresso or whatever coffee you want. Stand at the bar while you have your espresso and then leave. If you decide to sit at a table, be prepared to pay a little extra for table service.

4. Look before you cross the street. If you're in the street at the wrong time - when cars and scooters are flying towards you - be prepared to get yelled/honked at and jump out of the way as quickly as possible.

5. Pronounce the E in "grazie." It's "grah-zee-eh." I have NO idea why there is some misconception in the US that it's grazi without the e. I've seen it misspelled a number of times in the US.

6. Go wine tasting in Tuscany. Wine tasting anywhere else is tough to beat.

Andiamo Bellevue Food

7. The bread on the table is to mop up your leftover pasta sauce; the olive oil is to add extra flavor to your food.

8. If you're in Florence, you must go to a secret bakery at 2am and order a nutella croissant. There is nothing better than to have chocolate- or lemon-filled pastries after a late night out.

9. Dress to impress. Italians know their fashion: think of every street like a runway. Being "dressed down" in sneakers and skinny jeans still means fabulous hair, Ray-Ban aviators, and designer extras - for women and men.

10. Wear comfortable shoes. The aforementioned cobblestone streets won't be nice to your feet, either. To save your soles, try sneakers (Converse, Nike, and New Balance are good brands to try), comfortable flats (break them in before you go), or boots (there are many shops in Italy that sell quality leather boots).

Book a Place to Stay in Italy

My all-time favorite booking website is the well-known Booking.com - I’ve used it for years all over the world.

It is the easiest way to search and find the best hotels (hostels too!), especially based on reviews. I always check the reviews on Booking, even if it’s a name-brand hotel. You never know!

10 Airport Travel Tips For The Holidays

98.6 million people are expected to travel 50 miles or more this year for Christmas, and just like every year, air travel is going to get busy. If you're flying home for the holidays, use these 10 airport travel tips to make your trip home smoother.

Tips For Packing Your Bags

1. Don't wrap your gifts

Airport security may look through your bags at any time of year, and there is no tolerance for suspicion. To save your packages from getting torn apart, leave your gifts unwrapped for the flight and wrap them once you arrive at your destination.

Already bought special wrapping paper for the occasion? Save time (and your paper!) by cutting out enough for what you need, folding it, and laying it flat. Keep it from getting wrinkled by sticking it in the middle of a magazine or book.

2. Fly Southwest

If you're flying domestic in the US and are bringing a number of gifts home with you, fly Southwest - they are the only US airline to allow two free checked bags. If you are expecting to receive a gift(s) of larger size, only use a carry-on or one checked bag on the way there and fold up a duffle in your suitcase to use on the way back.

3. Place shoes in separate compartment

Place your shoes in a separate compartment so the odor doesn't mix with your clothes (or any new clothing/fabric items that you're giving to loved ones as gifts). I like to use the zip compartment in my suitcase to prevent this.

4. Place a dryer sheet in your suitcase, too

Fabric softener makes your clothes smell great in the dryer and will also keep your clothes smelling fresh in the suitcase, too. Place it on the top of the pile before you zip the suitcase up. Now there will be no fear of stinky smelling clothes for holiday parties!

5. Bring small breakables in your carry-on

Bringing home breakables? Keep them in your carry-on to avoid them from cracking when your checked luggage gets tossed around by airport staff. Speaking from experience: last year I put a fragile, hand-painted ornament from Florence in my checked bag only to take it out of the suitcase in shattered pieces when I arrived.

For the Airport

6. Print your boarding pass ahead of time

This will save you time and one extra step. You never know how long the lines will be at check-in.

7. Use travel apps

For smooth travel days, get some assistance from an app like TripIt for your itinerary.

8. Allow extra time for security as airports are busier

As mentioned at the beginning 98.6 million people are traveling for the holidays this year. That means busier airports and longer lines. Allowing extra time to get to the airport (especially if the weather is bad) and get through security will save you stress.

9. Bring snacks and a water bottle

Airport food and water can get expensive, and shelling out cash for a bag of processed, unhealthy food that doesn't even taste that good is the worst. Plan ahead by picking up your desired snacks at the grocery store the day before you leave to save money and eat what you like. As for avoiding paying $4 for a disposable water bottle? Pack an empty one in your carry-on and fill it up at a drinking fountain after you get through security.

10. Communicate with whoever is picking you up

If a friend or family member is picking you up, make sure you communicate with them on what time your flight gets in - and keep in touch if your flight gets delayed. This will save your driver from sitting in the cell phone lot for an extra hour or two while they wait for a delayed flight!

Around The World On A Budget

Is traveling expensive? It can be, but it doesn't have to! Instead of getting discouraged immediately after checking the price of flights, start to think outside the box when it comes to planning your next trip. If your dream destination is somewhere warm on a beach, look into Southeast Asia - there are hoards of beaches there. If it's classic European architecture, check out the castles and cathedrals of old-world Eastern Europe. If it's something adventurous or outdoors-y, look into Central or South America. For somewhere totally exotic and different, head to Central Asia.

Below are a few destinations around the world on a budget that will still satisfy your desire to travel that won't drain your bank account. This list can help get you started when thinking about where to go!

Also read: Where To Find Cheap Flights

Asia

Southeast Asia: Cambodia, Thailand, Indonesia, etc.

Countries in Southeast Asia are extremely inexpensive to travel to. This region is often called a "backpacker's paradise" due to being safe, cheap, and with multiple countries that are easy to get to. Get started with a Full Moon party in Thailand, waterfalls in Laos, pristine beaches in Cambodia, delicious fusion food in Singapore, or bright green rice fields in Indonesia.

South Korea

For an Eastern Asian adventure without the Tokyo price tag, head to South Korea. Sing karaoke, eat Korean barbecue, and take trips through the lush countryside to see this stunning country.

Europe

Eastern Europe and The Balkans: Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegonia, Albania, Montenegro, Serbia, Romania

This region of Eastern Europe is far cheaper than its western counterpart. While London and Paris are amazing cities, you can find accommodation for days in parts of Eastern Europe that cost the same as one night in the former two. You'll get a more in-depth experience and set foot in parts of Europe that many travelers never get to. The castles and architecture are gorgeous, too!

DSC_0256

Turkey

Istanbul is one of the most interesting cities in Europe, partially due to its influences with both the West and East. It's really cheap, and the farther east you go, the cooler it gets. Hot air ballooning in the Cappadocia region is a popular activity these days, as is taking a cruise along the sparkling Mediterranean Coast.

Greece

Greece is a European country that many people assume is outrageously expensive but is far more affordable than you'd think. Read the Greece section on this post for more reasons why.

Africa

Morocco

Morocco tends to be more on the inexpensive side for tourists, especially if you're getting there from Western Europe (in which case, it will seem very inexpensive). Avoid tourist scams to save your money, and enjoy the beauty and exotic flavor of this country.

Madagascar

If you can get to Madagascar, you'll notice that prices are on the lower range for accommodation, transportation, etc. You never know, it could be worth it to see the Avenue of Baobabs in person, where baobab trees reach heights of about 100 feet.

The Americas

Peru

Peru has Machu Picchu which is already awesome, but you'll also find jungles and beaches in this South American country. Go to Lima or Cuzco for a city vibe, or head out to Lake Titicaca to marvel at this huge lake that sits over 12,000 feet above sea level.

USA

North America in general can get pretty pricey, but if you want to go to the US, shave down the cost of seeing big cities in different parts of this large country by driving instead of flying. This will significantly cut down your costs and allow you to stop at unexpected spots on the way! Popular routes include:

-Historic Route 66 (California-Arizona-New Mexico-Texas-Oklahoma-Missouri-Illinois)

-Deep South (Louisiana-Mississippi-Alabama-Georgia)

-Pacific Coast Highway (Washington-Oregon-California)

-California to New York

-Florida

-I-90 (East-West interstate highway along northern states)

-Southwest loop (Los Angeles-San Diego-Phoenix-Grand Canyon-Zion NP-Las Vegas)

Panama If you're craving Central American beaches but aren't digging the idea of Costa Rican prices, go a little further south to Panama. Rainforest, tropical birds, beaches, diving, and surfing are a few of many great things to see and do in Panama.

Oceania & The Pacific

Islands: Fiji, Northern Mariana Islands

Aside from Australia and New Zealand, which are both notorious for being pricey, look into islands in Oceania. Fiji is a great alternative to the Caribbean if you're looking for a beach getaway. Also check out some other islands, such as the Northern Mariana Islands - Saipan is on the US dollar and is relatively inexpensive (read more about Saipan here and here)!

How I've Paid For My Travels So Far

Spice Market and Grand Bazaar

I don't believe that money has to be a barrier to traveling the world. Money is definitely important and is a big factor toward travel, but it's more about changing the way you think about paying for things and prioritizing the things you spend money on.

Don't automatically dismiss that dream destination because of the cost. Do your research. And research some more. And get creative and come up with alternative ways to travel to that dream destination. Then comes the fun part - start planning and GO!

I haven't addressed exactly how I've paid for my travels so far on this website because money is a sensitive subject and is different for everyone.

I've also read blogs where the blogger explains how they fund their travels, and then a horde of criticism and whiny people troll their comments and inboxes saying life isn't fair, you suck, your lifestyle is unrealistic, wah wah wah.

Everyone is different. Everyone is in a different financial situation. If money is a barrier, think outside the box.

That said, here goes nothing...

Some facts about my financial situation:

Yes, I have bills to pay every month.

Yes, I still drink Starbucks every day.

Yes, I currently work both a full-time and part-time job.

No, I don't have a rich uncle who secretly funds my travels.

No, I don't have student loans (yay, scholarships).

---But I also don't think student loans should stop people from traveling (and have proof of friends with nasty loans that still find ways to travel).

No, I don't go shopping as much as I used to.

Croatian Islands

Here is a completely transparent overview of how I've funded my previous international trips to Europe.

1. I studied abroad in college.

After emptying out my savings account to pay for the summer tuition, I had finally convinced my parents that I was serious enough to study abroad in Italy. They reluctantly let me go, afraid for my safety "in scary Italy" (seriously, how ridiculous does that sound?). My parents paid for my flights and two weekend trips (London and Amalfi Coast), which I of course was extremely grateful for. Other than that, my spending money came from my personal remaining funds. Even though I came home with just $25 in my bank account, I was happy, smiling, and had no regrets. Luckily I had a summer babysitting job to come back to...

2. I worked as a tour guide based in Italy and traveled around Europe for my job.

After graduating college, I knew I wanted to go back to Europe, but since I couldn't afford a trip, I knew I had to get creative and find another way to do it. I found a job to work for a company that has trips around Europe for study abroad students, and part of my job was leading the trips (where travel and accommodation were covered).

I worked for the fall semester (August - January) and have no idea how I made my personal budget of $1,400 last that long, other than the fact that I ate vegetables, eggs, and bread every day and (sadly) didn't buy a dirndl at Oktoberfest. If you're going to work a similar job, I HIGHLY SUGGEST a more comfortable budget - at least $1,000/month. My parents paid for 2/3 of my flights as a birthday present, but other than that, I used the $1,400 I had left over from my summer job, plus the monthly stipend I got from the company I worked for.

I had only $30 in my bank account when I returned to the States...but planned ahead before I left - I got a job in February to work a leadership conference in DC for a month to build my money back up.

Note:While I don't regret spending all my money on these first two trips, I definitely recommend coming home with more than $25-30 in your bank account. I also recommend having some type of job or form of income set up for when you get back (unless you're using vacation days from a current job) so you don't go into debt.

3. I worked as a faculty advisor for an international leadership conference in Europe.

The same company I worked for in DC also has international conferences. I was shocked - and extremely excited - to find out I got one of the spots to work at the Europe conference for two weeks. The company covered all my expenses: flights, transportation, hotel, and food in exchange for work. I had very few minor expenses during the conference, and I stuck to a budget during my weekend in Paris beforehand. This time, I came home with a far more decent amount in my bank account than the previous two trips.

There you have it! I hope this information was helpful to you, and inspires you to get creative and see how you can make travel work for you, despite the price tag. Whether you can book a trip in the new year or formulate a plan to go somewhere five years from now, stay focused and be determined to make it happen!

Also read: 11 Ways To Make Money While You Travel

and Is Tour Guiding The Right Job For You?