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26 Best Travel Affiliate Programs for 2024 (Based on Data)

This year my travel blog has generated over $50,000 in revenue from affiliate marketing alone. And it's only August!

Here's a peek at what it's looked like so far this year:

What's more, this travel blog earns twice as much through affiliate marketing than it does from display ads with Mediavine.

So in case you're wondering, YES, you can still do great as a travel affiliate today. It all comes down to writing the right type of content that fits into the "buying phase" of the trip-planning process.

Want to learn more? In this post I'm going to share:

The most profitable affiliate programs for travel bloggers
Tips for promoting different types of travel products and services
Common mistakes travel bloggers make when monetizing their websites

But first, a quick note how I created this list (so you know it's legit).

How we compiled this list of programs

We compiled a list of roughly 50 top travel blogs . This include mainstays like Nomadic Matt , Santorini Dave , and Expert Vagabond . Plus, smaller and niche sites focusing on specific destinations, geographies, and activities to add in some variety.

Then, we ran each site through our Affiliate Link Scanner to discover which affiliate programs and merchants they linked to the most.

(Because after all, if someone creates 10 articles about a single product, there's a very good chance it's converting for them.)

Finally, we grouped together the programs by common categories, like accommodation, tours, and insurance, so it'd be easier for you to navigate.

The result is a list of the best travel affiliate programs for bloggers — all based on what the world's best travel blogs are promoting today. So, here it is.

Travel Affiliate Programs

These travel affiliate programs fall into a couple of main categories: hotel affiliate programs , travel tours affiliate programs, outdoor gear affiliate programs , luxury travel affiliate programs, rental car affiliate programs , train and airline affiliate programs , and travel insurance affiliate programs.

A mouthful, I know — but exactly which products you choose will depend on the kind of content you like to write and who your audience is.

Here are the best travel affiliate programs to promote in 2024:

Booking.com affiliate program
Viator affiliate program
FareHarbor affiliate program
GetYourGuide affiliate program
RentalCars.com affiliate program
Discover Cars affiliate program
Klook affiliate program
Plum Guide affiliate program
Outdoorsy affiliate program
RVShare affiliate program
Skyscanner affiliate program
Momondo affiliate program
KAYAK affiliate program
HostelWorld affiliate program
Interrail Pass / Eurail Pass affiliate program
REI affiliate program
TripAdvisor affiliate program
G Adventures affiliate program
Intrepid Travel affiliate program
CityPASS affiliate program
Priority Pass affiliate program
World Nomads affiliate program
SafetyWing affiliate program
Wise (formerly Transferwise) affiliate program
Omio affiliate program
Ferryhopper affiliate program

Booking.com

Program name: Booking.com Affiliate Program
Commission: 25-34% of Booking.com's cut (Booking.com), 4% of gross sale amount (CJ Affiliate)
Cookie duration: 0 days
Markets: Global

Booking.com is the single most popular travel affiliate program from all our research across dozens of top travel blogs.

And for good reason: hotels are extremely profitable. First off, they're expensive at around $100 per night in a lot of destination. And then, people tend to book multiple nights in a single session.

The result is great commissions, so long as you're writing content that captures people right before they book.

What you'll notice as a hotel affiliate is a high cancelation rate, sometimes as high as 30-40%. It's hard to avoid, as free cancelation policies virtually encourage this. Even so, the profits to be made are still exceptional.

One unusual aspect of Booking.com is that it doesn't use an actual cookie. You only get credit for Bookings that happen "in-session". So you'll want to target people who are minutes away from booking accommodation to secure a sale.

Despite the drawbacks, Booking.com has such name recognition and converts well enough to make it one of the best travel affiliate programs you can promote.

Hotel affiliate tips: Here are a few of my top tips for recommending hotels and accommodation to your travel blog readers as an affiliate:

Make your recommendation early. Don't make the mistake of putting your recommended hotel links at the bottom of your posts. Summarize your recommended place to stay at the top in a "Trip Summary" with scannable bullet points.
Make your recommendation clear. If you loved somewhere you stayed, make it clear. 1-2 sentences are enough to earn the click if your recommendation is genuine.
Test your link text. Try calls-to-action like "check availability" and "see more images". These demand less commitment from the reader than "book now". But no matter what, you should be tracking and testing these to see which converts best for your audience.

One important note for new affiliates is that Booking.com does require you reach a minimum of 100€ in commissions before they pay you out. Given the average commission though, most travel affiliates will be able to reach this in a reasonable amount of time.

You also only earn a commission after a booking is completed and the host or hotel has reported a successful stay. That means your commissions are often only paid many months after the booking happens.

While the money with Booking.com isn't quick, the payouts are dependable and the revenue from a high season's worth of bookings can set you up for a good part of the year.

Program name: Viator Affiliate Program
Commission: 8% (Viator), 4% (ShareASale)
Cookie duration: 30 days
Alternatives: GetYourGuide at 8% and up (GetYourGuide), 5% (Skimlinks), 7% base (Awin), 7% (CJ Affiliate) , or Klook at 2-5%

Viator is an online platform for booking travel tours, experiences, and activities. While GetYourGuide could be seen as more present in Europe, Viator has an excellent selection of activities in the United States and Canada.

So if your focus is on domestic tourism within North America, this could be a great affiliate program for your travel blog.

Viator's direct program offers an 8% base commission rate. Paired with the 30-day cookie period, and your reader has a lot of time after clicking your link to go through with booking their travel experience.

To make the most from Viator, make sure that tours you promote have great reviews, ratings, and photos. If you can add your own into the article itself and share a personal experience, that's a recipe for a strong conversion rate.

Program name: FareHarbor Affiliate Program
Network / Software: FareHarbor Distribution Network
Commission: 15% on the ticket price, 75% of FareHarbor's cut
Cookie duration: Not listed
Markets: US, CA, EU

FareHarbor, a Booking Holdings company, is the leading booking platform for tour and activity operators worldwide, with its largest presence in North America and Europe.

FareHarbor has its own affiliate network — the FareHarbor Distribution Network (FHDN). It directly connects 30,000 guided tours, outdoor activities, and other experience providers with affiliates like you - with no middleman to share commission with.

You can earn a commission rate as high as 15% (one of the highest in the industry!) for an average basket value of $100-$150.

Commissions are paid for bookings made "in-session"; so there is no cookie window, but research has shown that most activity bookings happen while bookers are already in-destination.

Within its affiliate network, FareHarbor also offers the possibility to connect with account managers who provide insights and suggestions of the best tours to feature on your website, answer questions, and automates the invoicing and payment process.

GetYourGuide

Program name: GetYourGuide Affiliate Program
Commission: 8% and up (GetYourGuide), 5% (Skimlinks), 7% base (Awin), 7% (CJ Affiliate)
Cookie duration: 31 days (GetYourGuide), Not listed (Skimlinks), 30 days (Awin, CJ Affiliate)
Markets: Global (GetYourGuide), Global (Skimlinks), US (Awin), US, FR, DE, UK (CJ Affiliate)
Alternatives: Viator at 8% (Viator), 4% (ShareASale) , or Klook at 2-5%

GetYourGuide is a place to book travel experiences and activities online. Think guided tours, boat rides, skip-the-line tickets, city guides, and group tours large and small.

In addition to working with local tour operators, GetYourGuide also has their own Originals series of tours they run themselves. These tours are based the massive amount of data they have about the kinds of activities people like best.

GetYourGuide offers an 8% base commission rate through their direct program, though successful affiliates can negotiate for rates as high as 10 and 12%.

Paired with a 30-day cookie period, the rates are favorable for landing commissions. Especially if you cover Europe on your travel blog, since the selection on GetYourGuide is great.

The key is to promote these activities in the right kind of content, at the moment when people are most likely to book. Here are some tips on that.

Tips for promoting travel tours as an affiliate: Link to tours on articles about things to do in a city, itineraries, day trips from a city, how to reach a place, food tours, or guides to a location-specific activities or bucketlist experiences.

One thing to consider is that people browsing "things to do" posts tend to fall into two camps: people who are dreaming of a destination and people who are already there.

As such, these kind of posts can result in good revenue for affiliates, but have a lower affiliate RPM because the traffic intent is split between far future planning and immediate booking.

RentalCars.com

Program name: RentalCars.com Affiliate Program
Commission: 40% of RentalCar.com's cut (RentalCars.com), 6% of sales (CJ Affiliate)
Cookie duration: 0 days (RentalCars.com), 30 days (CJ Affiliate)
Alternatives: Discover Cars at 70% of rental car profit, 30% on Full Coverage insurance revenue (Post Affiliate Pro), 54% of rental car profit, 23% on Full Coverage insurance revenue (ShareASale)

RentalCars.com is a great example of how much of an opportunity transportation is a big opportunity for travel blogger affiliates.

As one of the biggest rental car comparison websites online, RentalCars.com has got great brand recognition and overall does prove to have some solid deals.

If you tend to do road trips or just prefer to socially distance from your fellow travelers, rental car affiliate programs are a great addition to your travel content.

The two main rental car affiliate programs we found in our analysis were RentalCars.com and Discover Cars (also in this guide). Depending on your audience, one or the other might convert better, so it's worth testing each.

Tips for promoting rental cars: Obviously, it works best to promote rental cars for places where you might like to have a car to get around, and parking isn't too terrible. Think road trips, regional trips, and destinations where people are likely to visit multiple towns or cities in a single trip.

The longer the person's trip is, the more commission you earn. So thinking about destinations where people tend to spend a longer amount of time driving around is helpful.

Discover Cars

Program name: Discover Cars Affiliate Program
Commission: 70% of rental car profit, 30% on Full Coverage insurance revenue (Post Affiliate Pro), 54% of rental car profit, 23% on Full Coverage insurance revenue (ShareASale)
Cookie duration: 365 days
Alternatives: RentalCars.com at 40% of RentalCar.com's cut (RentalCars.com), 6% of sales (CJ Affiliate)

Discover Cars is a brand I wasn't familiar with until compiling the data for this article. But then I saw it everywhere.

Their merchant page on ShareASale got my attention:

"We partner with some of the top webmasters in the travel vertical who are earning on average $2,500 USD per month with a traffic of 100K."

This means average commissions vary from $20-$50 per sale, and with a super generous 1-year cookie. With affiliate commissions like that, it's easy to imagine that adding some car rental links to your existing content could be pretty profitable.

You may find it interesting to try out both RentalCars.com and Discover Cars and see which one converts better for your readers.

Program name: Klook Affiliate Program
Commission: 2-5%
Alternatives: GetYourGuide at 8% and up (GetYourGuide), 5% (Skimlinks), 7% base (Awin), 7% (CJ Affiliate) , or Viator at 8% (Viator), 4% (ShareASale)

Klook is a Hong Kong-based travel tours and experience platform. As such, we found Klook promoted most on blogs that focus on Asian countries like Japan, Korea, Singapore, China, Taiwan, and Vietnam.

With that said, since the pandemic and the turndown of international tourism in Asia, Klook has doubled down on Europe and North America as target markets. So you'll want to test promoting similar activities between Klook, Viator, and GetYourGuide to see which resonates most with your audience.

Right on the bottom of their homepage, you can see a pretty clear list of their top performing activities and tours.

Let this inspire you on the type of content to create as a travel affiliate:

Apart from tours and activities, Klook is also a reseller of train tickets, WiFi rentals, and Sim cards. Especially if your readers are traveling to a country in Asia for the first time, there are probably a number of products and conveniences you can help them discover through Klook.

Program name: Plum Guide Affiliate Program
Commission: 7-10%
Cookie duration: 90 days
Markets: AU, CA, ES, UK, US

Plum Guide is like a fancier version of Airbnb, where stays start at 139€ and go up from there. They select the top 1% of properties in a few of the most popular vacation destinations, like London, Paris, New York, Los Angeles, Rome, Milan, Copenhagen, Madrid, Barcelona, Lisbon, Berlin and Tel Aviv.

So while the properties on Plum Guide might be too expensive for the average traveler, the bookings you can make through this program tend to be on the higher end if they go through.

On top of that, the generous 90-day cookie period means you have a lot of time for the guest to actually book their stay after they start their research process on your website.

If you cater to luxury travellers, Plum Guide could be a good addition to the hotel affiliate programs you're already promoting.

Program name: Outdoorsy Affiliate Program
Commission: $60.00 or more per booking
Markets: US, CA (AvantLink), US, CA (CJ Affiliate), US, CA (Tune (HasOffers))
Alternatives: RVShare at 5% for each stay, $7.00 for each new RV listed (CJ Affiliate), 6.4% for each stay, $7.00 for each new RV listed (FlexOffers) , or Camping World at 4% commission

Who wants to take bets that RVing, renting camper vans, and hitting the road is going to be the most popular travel activities next Summer?

While hotels are some of the most lucrative affiliate programs for travel bloggers , RVs and camper vans take their place when it comes to destinations popular for their natural beauty.

Think about national parks and places famous for their camping and wildlife.

Apart from the solid commissions at $60+ per booking, Outdoorsy is available in both the US and Canada. So if you're outdoors activities in North America, there's a good chance you'll be covered.

Look no further than the Outdoorsy homepage for a roadmap (ha!) to their most popular places to rent an RV:

The great commissions and cookie period make this an excellent affiliate program for both travel and outdoors-focused websites.

You will need to reach $100 in earnings to trigger a payout from AvantLink, CJ, or Tune (formerly HasOffers). But with these commissions, that shouldn't be an issue.

Program name: RVShare Affiliate Program
Commission: 5% for each stay, $7.00 for each new RV listed (CJ Affiliate), 6.4% for each stay, $7.00 for each new RV listed (FlexOffers)
Cookie duration: 30 days (CJ Affiliate), 45 days (FlexOffers)
Markets: US
Alternatives: Outdoorsy at $60.00 or more per booking , or Camping World at 4% commission

RVShare is an RV marketplace where both RV owners and those looking to rent can connect. It includes a range of vehicles from pop-ups to luxury motor homes.

With an average order value of $699, according to the program landing page, that means an average commission of about $34.95. Not bad at all, but not nearly as good as Outdoorsy , assuming a comparable conversion rate.

Still an extremely solid option if you need to promote RV or van rentals in places Outdoorsy doesn't cover. At least, as the homepage claims, it is the largest RV rental marketplace.

Similar to Outdoorsy, popular destinations are plastered right on the homepage:

Take any of these for inspiration on the types of destinations that people tend to visit by RV, and you'll be ahead of the curve.

Program name: Skyscanner Affiliate Program
Commission: 20% Direct and booking

Skyscanner is a metasearch engine and travel agency based out of Scotland with average site visits of over 100 million people per month. The site specializes in helping travelers search, choose, and book from a wide variety of flight, hotel, and car hire deals from over 1,200 travel providers. The website is also available in 35 languages across 60 countries.

Skyscanner is an easy sell, given its brand recognition and how trusted it is among regular travelers. The company’s airline affiliate program currently provides commissions on sales of flights and hotel bookings. The pay-outs are a share of the commissions offered to Skyscanner by their travel partners. Expect to earn in the region of 20% commissions for bookings.

You have three different ways to sell Skyscanner’s products:

Embed widgets on your website.
Use the company’s text links or banners or generate your own unique referral link.
Create an innovative travel website or app by connecting to Skyscanner’s Flights API.

Overall, Skyscanner is a reliable choice for travel deals and a superior inventory of travel products.

Program name: Momondo Affiliate Program
Commission: $0.06-$0.60 per sale depending on the types of product and clickout (desktop, mobile) (CJ Affiliate), $0.09-$0.87 per sale depending on the types of product and clickout (desktop, mobile) (CJ Affiliate), $0.45 per click out for desktop and tablet, $0.65 per click out for mobile (Webgains), 0.05-0.46% per sale depending on the types of product and clickout (desktop, mobile) (FlexOffers), $0.07-$0.66 per sale depending on the types of product and clickout (desktop, mobile) (FlexOffers), A$0.38-A$0.83 (Skimlinks), (Skimlinks), (Sovrn)
Markets: CA (CJ Affiliate), US (CJ Affiliate), Global (Webgains), CA (FlexOffers), US (FlexOffers), AU (Skimlinks), Global (Skimlinks), Global (Sovrn)

Momondo is a travel fare metasearch engine and aggregator owned by KAYAK. Similar to KAYAK, Momondo searches and displays cheap fares for tickets, stays, car rentals, and experiences.

The good news about Momondo’s affiliate program is that they’re open to even smaller blogs. So, if you’re just starting out as an affiliate, this might be a great opportunity. They’re open to content sites, established travel sites, and even email as long as the email content has been pre-approved by the company.

All you need to do is sign up on any of the associate affiliate network partners, receive your link and embed it to your website. You have the potential to earn US$0.65 per click on desktops and tablets and US$0.45 per click on mobile searches. Right now, the affiliate product is available for flights only. Also, reach out to the brand directly for additional support and exclusive deals if you have more than 200,000 unique site visitors a month.

Program name: KAYAK Affiliate Program
Commission: 0-50% (KAYAK), $0.08-$1.90 per sale depending on the types of product and clickout (desktop, mobile) (CJ Affiliate), £0.11-£0.33 per sale depending on the types of product and clickout (desktop, mobile) (CJ Affiliate), $0.08-$0.66 per sale depending on the types of product and clickout (desktop, mobile) (CJ Affiliate), $0.07-$0.61 per sale depending on the types of product and clickout (desktop, mobile) (FlexOffers), 0.06-0.83% per sale depending on the types of product and clickout (desktop, mobile) (FlexOffers), £0.28 per click on flights, hotel and car searches (TradeTracker)
Cookie duration: Not listed (KAYAK, CJ Affiliate, FlexOffers, TradeTracker), 30 days (CJ Affiliate, FlexOffers)
Markets: Global (KAYAK), US (CJ Affiliate), UK (CJ Affiliate), CA (CJ Affiliate), CA (FlexOffers), US (FlexOffers), CH, DE, ES, FR, IT, NL, PL, UK (TradeTracker)

KAYAK is a popular metasearch engine and online travel agency from the United States. The company offers a wide range of travel products, including flights, stays, car rentals, and experiences. From a branding perspective, the KAYAK website accounts for more than 6 million searches annually, and affiliates have already earned over US$76 million in sales.

KAYAK also has one of the most advanced and rewarding airline affiliate programs:

Earn 50% commissions from clicks, bookings, and ad revenue for flights, hotels, cars, and packages.
Easily customize your website for marketing with deep links, widgets, search boxes, white labeling, and API. You can even customize the solution to your needs.
Dedicated affiliate support includes technical setup and assistance for scaling up.
Track your earnings and performance on your very own affiliate portal.

Sign up to the KAYAK affiliate network directly on their website. Alternatively, you’ll also find the affiliate program listed on CJ Affiliate, FlexOffers, and TradeTracker.

HostelWorld

Program name: HostelWorld Affiliate Program
Commission: 18-22%
Alternatives: Booking.com at 25-34% of Booking.com's cut (Booking.com), 4% of gross sale amount (CJ Affiliate)

Got a budget-conscious audience? HostelWorld is a great alternative to Booking.com if your readers are college students, young people, or generally looking to travel long-term on a shoestring budget.

It's been a pretty long time since I stayed in a hostel, so I don't promote hostels myself. However, in our research we found tons of links to HostelWorld on top travel blogs and websites.

And even if you're not into hostels, HostelWorld seems to be branching out into the suddenly crowded market for travel experiences.

Tips for promoting hostels: Most people staying in hostels are doing it for budget-conscious reasons. So promote hostels in content targeting a younger demographic (such as college students).

Interrail Pass / Eurail Pass

Program name: Interrail Pass / Eurail Pass Affiliate Program
Commission: 3%
Alternatives: Omio at 2-8% depending on customer country

Eurail is a rail pass which permits travel through 33 European countries by train. It gives travelers unrivaled flexibility. If you miss a train, in most cases you can simply hop on board the next one.

You also save the hassle of booking train tickets in advance, though in most cases you still have to make a reservation with a small 10-20€ surcharge for high-speed and night trains.

Eurail have both multi-day and multi-country passes that travelers can tailor to their journey. Travelers can also choose a single-country pass, in case they want to just travel one country extensively by train.

Interrail is basically the same thing but designed for European residents.

Either way, you can earn a 3% commission. And with an average order value of £298.27 ($408.85), this could mean an average commission around $12.

Program name: REI Affiliate Program
Commission: 5%
Cookie duration: 15 days
Brands: Arc'teryx, Black Diamond, Columbia, Merrel, Mountain Hardwear, Osprey, Outdoor Research, Patagonia, prAna, REI Co-op, Salomon, Shimano, and Smartwool.
Alternatives: Patagonia at 8% , or Osprey at 8%

REI is the most promoted affiliate program for outdoor gear after Amazon, according to our analysis.

It's not exactly a surprise, as REI is a trusted name with a lot of brand loyalty behind it. They offer a wide range of products from camping and hiking gear to gear for climbing, cycling, kayaking, running, snow sports, and more.

REI is a perfect brand to promote whether your website is focused on travel, nature, outdoors, or sports.

The tricky part is that AvantLink and REI are particular about who they accept into their program. So you'll need to apply with an established website for a chance to get accepted.

REI offers over 200 articles from popular brands like Arc'teryx, Black Diamond, Columbia, and Patagonia.

So if you're able to get in, those brand pages are a great place to start for insights into REI's most popular and high-converting products and product categories.

TripAdvisor

Program name: TripAdvisor Affiliate Program
Commission: 50% of click out (CJ Affiliate), 16% of the revenue generated when users click on commerce links and/or ads throughout the TripAdvisor site (FlexOffers)
Cookie duration: 14 days (CJ Affiliate), 1 days (FlexOffers)

TripAdvisor is one of the most popular trip-planning websites online. On TripAdvisor, you can link to restaurants, attractions, and accommodation.

Basically, the TripAdvisor affiliate program shares revenue with affiliates based on leads, rather than sales. That means you'll generate many more, smaller commissions (think, $0.20 - $0.50 in most cases) than you would if you linked directly to the accommodation providers that TripAdvisor partners with.

But it's important to know that you'll only generate affiliate revenue if the click you send to TripAdvisor results in a click out to a hotel property. No other type of click out generates a commission for you.

Whether or not this is a good strategy for you heavily depends on the type of content you're writing. For content that's early in the trip-planning journey, this could make sense. But there you're still hoping to get lucky, as opposed to being intentional about the kind of content and links you're promoting.

If you're writing guides designed for people who are actively booking their stay, promoting hotels through Booking.com, Agoda, or Hotels.com will likely prove more profitable.

G Adventures

Program name: G Adventures Affiliate Program

Whereas GetYourGuide, Klook, and Voyagin are all tour companies, G Adventures focused on multi-day, small-group tours that rack up a big price tag — and resulting commission.

According to their FAQs, G Adventures' average order value is $2,600. At a 6% commission, that's $156 per sale on average.

Naturally, buying a tour like this is a much longer decision-making process. Luckily G Adventures also gives its affiliates a generous 90-day cookie window.

This makes it a great option if you're able to capture a reader's email address and send them a travel guide on the location, and following up with a couple emails about this tour. Sometimes these tours also have sales, too.

Tips for promoting small group, multi-day tours: Focus on destinations that may be more difficult to reach individually, or organized cross-country tours for Americans visiting Europe.

You'll notice their website features destinations like Machu Pichu, which can be complicated to reach on your own. Same story for places where travelers may not feel confident driving themselves.

In our research, we noticed both G Adventures and Intrepid Travel being promoted most heavily on South and Central America-focused travel websites.

Intrepid Travel

Program name: Intrepid Travel Affiliate Program
Commission: 4% on sales, $0.50 per lead
Markets: US, CA, EU, UK
Alternatives: G Adventures at 5%

Intrepid Travel is an alternative to consider for a lot of the same destinations as G Adventures. They cater primarily to North American and European travelers going to places in South and Central America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Here are some examples of the types of trips you'll find on Intrepid Travel:

Similar to G Adventures, they also sometimes have sales, which you can share with your email list or promote on relevant pages on your travel blog.

Again, focus on destinations that can be complicated or difficult to reach without a tour. Or locations where people might feel more safe or comfortable traveling in a small group, like the ones Intrepid Travel offers.

Program name: CityPASS Affiliate Program
Commission: 6%

Are you promoting large US or Canadian cities on your travel blog as an affiliate? CityPASS could be a great addition to help your audience access deals and attractions with a single purchase.

CityPASS tickets tend to include attractions like SeaWorld, Legoland, zoos, museums, cruises and more. We found them promoted most often on family travel websites, probably because dealing with tickets can be a pain if you've got kids in tow.

The top destinations mentioned on the CityPASS homepage include Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Houston, New York City, Orlando, Philadelphia, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Southern California, Tampa Bay, and Toronto.

You can easily include CityPASS links near any of the attractions in "things to do" guides that you're recommending anyway.

Of note, other online travel agencies like GetYourGuide, Klook, and Viator also often have passes to these types of attractions. So it's worth testing out which leads to a higher affiliate RPM for your article.

Priority Pass

Program name: Priority Pass Affiliate Program
Commission: 10% (ShareASale), 10% (Pepperjam)

Got an audience of luxury, business, or just frequent travelers? Priority Pass is membership that gives pass-owners access to over 1300 comfortable airport lounges around the world.

Most memberships are offered on an annual basis, and range from $89-$359 per year when discounted. At a 10% commission rate, that's $8.90-$35.90 per conversion which is definitely respectable on the upper end.

Note: On ShareASale they'll give you a 15% commission for the first month, but in all liklihood it'll take you long enough to figure out the best ways to promote the PriorityPass that you won't earn a ton during that time period.

World Nomads

Program name: World Nomads Affiliate Program
Network / Software: Direct
Commission: 10%
Cookie duration: 60 days
Alternatives: SafetyWing at 10%

One of the big benefits of travel insurance affiliate programs is you can include them in a wide range of existing content.

The downside is, trying to rank for most terms including the word "insurance" is probably not going to be easy.

While collecting our data, we noticed that a fair number of big name travel blogs include links out to travel insurance on almost 100% of their long-form content. If you've got a common footer at the end of your articles, this might be a good spot to include a link to World Nomads.

Think about destinations where safety is a concern, and share any personal experiences you may have with claiming insurance.

Including an "Is [City Name] Safe" section in existing travel guides and itineraries is a good way to start.

Program name: SafetyWing Affiliate Program
Alternatives: World Nomads at 10%

One of the most popular alternatives to World Nomads is SafetyWing. As opposed to being just focused on travel insurance, SafetyWing also offers insurance for full-time nomads and is among the first companies to do so.

As an "Ambassador", you can promote both the Nomad Insurance and the Remote Health insurance at a rate of 10%.

The difference is, Remote Health is a 12-month policy that gets paid out in installments. So you can actually continue to earn for each month that the person you referred remains insured (which they're obligated to do by contract).

Here's an example from the website:

A pretty excellent payout for just 10 referrals per year.

Wise (formerly Transferwise)

Program name: Wise (formerly Transferwise) Affiliate Program
Commission: £10.00 for personal users, £50.00 for business users
Cookie duration: Forever

Wise (formerly Transferwise) is a bank account that makes it cheap and fast to transfer money between countries. They offer a so-called "Borderless" account, which is bank account that allows you to hold balances in different currencies.

Fun fact, I'm a Wise user myself and have found it really useful to be able to accept affiliate payouts in various currencies, and then pay bills in the currency they're owed in, instead of losing money to currency conversion in between!

Wise is a handy product for anyone who travels internationally. Digital nomads, frequent travelers, and people doing international business are all great candidates to refer to Wise.

Commissions are a flat rate and will vary a bit depending on what your payout currency is. For the UK program, it's £10 for personal users, and £50 for business users.

Note that you only get paid for funded accounts, not just signups. But thanks to the "forever" cookie, you'll get credit for any account you refer that gets funded no matter how long it takes them to do it.

Program name: Omio Affiliate Program
Commission: 2-8% depending on customer country
Alternatives: Interrail Pass / Eurail Pass at 3%

Omio is a one-stop-shop for booking transportation. Trains, busses, flights, and ferries can all be found on Omio's website.

So if you're explaining to readers how to reach a specific location on your travel blog (for example, "Paris to Versailles"), the Omio affiliate program could be an easy plug when it comes to trains, busses, and flights.

Just be aware that there are transportation affiliate programs which may perform better. For example, car rentals and travel tours both tend to offer higher percentage commissions on a similar order value.

But for good measure, offering several options and then measuring which ones drive clicks and conversions is always your best bet.

Ferryhopper

Program name: Ferryhopper Affiliate Program
Commission: 1% gross booking value

Ferryhopper is a service that lets you book ferry transportation between the Greek Islands. Unlike a lot of other providers, they don't put an extra service charge on top, so you know your readers are genuinely getting the best deal.

That said, the base commission rate of 1% isn't super high. Considering most ferries are pretty affordable when booked in advance, this isn't likely to be the backbone of your travel blog's affiliate income.

But we did see this heavily promoted on a number of Greece-focused travel websites. So if that's a region you're covering, consider adding some content about ferries to the mix.

Monica Lent

Monica is the co-founder of Affilimate. Here to share data-driven tips and strategies for earning more from your website as a content publisher.

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14 Best Travel Affiliate Programs

Written by Backlinko Team In collaboration with Semrush

With travel booming in 2024, now is the perfect time for you to become a travel affiliate marketer and earn commissions while indulging your passion for exploration.

Curating this list of the top 14 travel affiliate programs took epic research, but we emerged confident that this represents the cream of the crop.

The stats speak for themselves: the travel industry generates trillions in global economic impact. Making up a 7.6 percent share of the total global GDP.

Top affiliates in this space average over $5,000 per month thanks to high transaction values and tempting commission rates.

And since people have traveled for adventure since ancient times, this niche will remain evergreen.

So grab your affiliate bags, check out the most lucrative programs in this post, and start inspiring wanderlust along the way!

How Backlinko Can Help You

To truly succeed as a travel affiliate marketer, you’ll need to master some key digital marketing skills – especially search engine optimization (SEO).

That’s why we’ve created in-depth guides to help you, including:

The Ultimate Guide to Affiliate Marketing
How to Learn SEO
How to Create an Effective SEO Strategy
How to Conduct Keyword Research (+ a Free Tool )
How to Get High Quality Backlinks

Implementing what you learn can help your travel website or blog rank higher and drive more qualified traffic. This means more bookings and commissions earned.

Top Travel Affiliate Programs

Below we’ve laid out and broken down 14 of the best programs – from luxury travel affiliate programs to car rental services – to help you choose the best one.

Expedia Group
Booking.com
Tripadvisor
G Adventures
GetYourGuide
Discover Cars
Hostelworld
Travelpayouts
World Nomads

1. Expedia Group

Niche: General travel, including accommodation, activities, car rentals, flights and cruise lines
Commission rate: Up to 6%
Cookie duration: 7 days
URL to join: Expedia Group Affiliate Program
Perks: Tools to help affiliates
Cons: Doesn’t pay on canceled bookings; Only pays out when customer’s trip is complete

Even if you’re not in the travel niche, you’ve probably heard of Expedia. It is one of the biggest travel brands in the world. Expedia has access to over 3 million properties, 500 airlines, 1000s of car rentals, and more than 220k activities.

It’s also one of our favorite programs because of the high conversion rates thanks to the popularity of the brand name.

And you can be a part of it.

We found the signup process very easy. All you have to do is sign up for the program to get access to the affiliate platform as well as helpful tools to market your links. These include:

The Creator Toolbox
Trackable links
Search widgets
Data to track your performance

By driving traffic to Expedia Group’s site from your own website or social media platforms, you can earn commissions on every qualifying booking made through your links.

It might not be the best commission rate on offer, but Expedia is a reliable name and a trusted brand.

2. Booking.com

Niche: General travel, including accommodation, flights, car rentals, and attractions
Commission rate: 25 – 40% of Booking.com’s commission
Cookie duration: Session-based
URL to join: Booking.com Affiliate Partner Centre
Perks: A trusted brand name and promotional tools
Cons: Payouts only after $109

Booking.com is most people’s one-stop shop for all things travel. It is commonly used for accommodation, but it also offers flights, attractions, car rentals, and airport taxi options.

With more than 28 million accommodation listings in 60,000 locations, it’s safe to say Booking.com is popular.

It’s no surprise that Booking.com also runs one of the most popular travel affiliate programs.

Their affiliate program is mainly aimed at bloggers and travel influencers. But, anyone with a website can use their affiliate links to earn some extra income.

Booking.com offers up to 40% commission for all confirmed stays, depending on how many bookings you refer per month.

This commission structure can be a bit confusing. Here’s a breakdown:

So, you’re not earning 25% of the booking fee. Instead, you’re earning 25% of Booking.com’s commission on the booking fee.

Let’s say someone booked a hotel room costing $200 via your Booking.com link. Booking.com usually takes a 20% commission, meaning they earn $40 from the booking. You’ll then get 25% of that $40 – a solid $10.

That’s not bad if you can get a couple of bookings each month.

And we am not just grabbing these figures out of the air – this is exactly what happened to us, which is why we rate this affiliate program so highly.

Affiliate marketers also get access to some handy promotional tools, including:

Deals finder

3. Tripadvisor

Niche: General travel, including accommodation and activities
Commission rate: 50% of Tripadvisor’s commission
Cookie duration: 14 days
URL to join: Tripadvisor Affiliate Program
Perks: Links, including text links, logos, buttons, banners, badges and widgets
Cons: Only commissions on hotel bookings

Sure, Tripadvisor is mainly the place you go to to read reviews. With over a billion reviews on the site, there’s a good reason why.

But, you can also use the portal to make activity or hotel bookings.

Accommodation is the main focus of the Tripadvisor affiliate program. When someone visits a hotel’s website through your affiliate link, you get 50% of Tripadvisor’s commission (similar to how the Booking.com affiliate program works).

However, Tripadvisor doesn’t pay any commission on restaurants, activities, or flights.

But, if you happen to get clicks during incentive campaigns (when Tripadvisor pushes certain products), your commission can be as high as 80%!

What makes Tripadvisor one of the best affiliate programs is that no actual booking is required . Yep. As soon as a user is sent from your site to Tripadvisor, and clicks to a booking partner, you’ll earn money.

You can join the Tripadvisor affiliate program through the Commission Junction Affiliate Network – just sign up and search for Tripadvisor. Easy!

Niche: Activities
Commission rate: 8% on completed experiences
Cookie duration: 30 days
URL to join: Viator Travel Affiliate Program
Perks: Weekly payouts (PayPal); Useful affiliate tools, including links, widgets, and banners
Cons: For bank transfers, there’s a minimum $50 threshold

Viator’s affiliate program is aimed at anyone who loves traveling. Whether you’re a travel blog owner, provide travel services, or just enjoy exploring the world – this program is for you.

With this travel affiliate program, you’ll earn an 8% commission on any experience booked within 30 days after clicking on your link.

And there’s no shortage of experiences to promote.

With 300,000 experiences in 2,500 locations – including sightseeing tours, day trips, and multi-day excursions – your opportunities are endless.

Viator has a brilliant selection of activities in North America, so if that’s your focus, then Viator is your best bet. But, the program also has tours across the globe, catering to a global audience, so you can really branch out.

5. G Adventures

Niche: Adventure travel
Commission rate: 6% on confirmed sales
Cookie duration: 90 days
URL to join: G Adventures Affiliate Program
Perks: G Adventures provides display adds, XML feed, and additional copy
Cons: Small niche, so can be difficult to break through the noise and market your links

G Adventures caters to adventure travelers. This is a small niche, sure, but very lucrative (and our favorite adventure travel program, simply because of the incredible tours on offer).

When you realize that G Adventures’ average order value is about $2,600, that 6% commission starts to look really good!

In fact, the adventure travel niche is estimated to be worth more than $1 trillion by 2026 ! So, why not tap into this market now?

Most people take their time to consider purchasing an adventure tour. They may click on your link, ruminate a bit, and then decide to book the tour. G Adventures understands its niche, which is why it offers a 90-day cookie duration.

You can sign up for the G Adventures affiliate program on two affiliate networks: Commission Junction or AWIN .

Niche: Accommodation
Commission rate: Up to 5%, depending on the number of bookings
URL to join: Agoda Partners
Perks: The more bookings, the higher the commission plus free tools to increase traffic
Cons: Only open to website owners (no social media platforms)

Agoda is almost a household name when it comes to finding places to stay. They offer a range of accommodation options, from massive family-friendly resorts to romantic hidden gems.

And as an affiliate marketer, you get to enjoy the benefits of working with a trusted brand while earning an income.

This travel affiliate program is only open to those with websites – no social media posting – making it a bit tougher to qualify for. But, you can earn up to 5% on completed bookings if you get more than 299 bookings per month, which means it can be quite lucrative if you know how to market.

You’ll also be able to install free tools that have been proven to increase traffic and conversions. These tools include:

Hotel data file

Agoda is available in 38 languages, so you can speak to your audiences no matter where they’re from.

7. GetYourGuide

Niche: Travel experiences
Commission rate: 8%
Cookie duration: 31 days
URL to join: GetYourGuide Partner
Perks: Free training through workshops and networking events
Cons: Bank transfers have a minimum $50 threshold

GetYourGuide offers curated excursions and activities for users across the world. By joining their partner program, you get to offer your audience amazing experiences and earn money with every booking and completed activity.

And GetYourGuide offers A LOT of activities. The tour categories include:

Walking tours
Attractions
Hop on/hop off tours
City cruises
Multi-day trips
City sightseeing cards

If any of your site visitors make a booking for these activities through your link, you’ll earn an 8% commission!

Not only do affiliate marketers get free training, but GetYourGuide also offers a variety of tools, including widgets, links, and guidance on how to integrate their links onto your platforms.

8. Discover Cars

Niche: Car rental
Commission rate: 70% of rental profit; 30% of full coverage revenue
Cookie duration: 365 days
URL to join: Car Rental Affiliate Program
Perks: Tools (banners, text links, widget, landing page generator, XML API integration) and a dedicated account manager
Cons: Minimum payment threshold of $200

Transportation affiliate programs don’t get much better than this.

We consider Discover Cars to be one of the best affiliate marketing programs for car rentals. The reason? It offers “double” commission since you’ll earn commission through the car rental profit as well as Full Coverage service.

Plus, the long cookie lifetime means this partnership is REALLY beneficial. You’ll still earn commissions after a year since a user visited your site!

Discover Cars is serious about its affiliate program. They assign their affiliate marketers a dedicated account manager who guides you on how to maximize profits and provide feedback on your links.

You can sign up to Discover Cars’ affiliate program through any of these affiliate networks:

Commission Junction

We have to note that the commission rates through these affiliate networks may differ from the 70% offered directly through Discover Cars.

Niche: Experiences and tours
Commission rate: Up to 5%
URL to join: Klook Affiliate
Perks: Tools to aid with integration
Cons: Must own a website or blog (no social media posts)

Klook is a convenient platform for people looking to book tickets to tourist attractions and events.

By signing up for the Klook Affiliate Program, you can earn commissions on attractions, shows, tours, transport, and dining experiences.

Klook is Hong Kong-based, which means a lot of its activities are based in Asian countries. However, a few years ago, it also doubled down on North American and European markets. And with more than 100,000 in-destination activities and excursions, you’re sure to find some that appeal to your audience.

There is also a separate influencer program, called the Klook Kreator Program , where social media influencers can earn passive income through commissions and unique promo codes.

10. Hostelworld

Niche: Affordable accommodation; backpackers; hostels
Commission rate: Calculated as % of deposit
URL to join: Hostelworld Affiliate Program
Perks: Dedicated support team and integration tools
Cons: Does not report commission rate on their site

Hostelworld is a massive accommodation and travel booking platform. But, where other sites like Booking.com and Expedia offer more luxury travel affiliate programs, Hostelworld is firmly focused on affordable hostel experiences.

Users of Hostelworld can access more than 13 million reviews and bookings of backpackers and hostels in 179 countries.

And you get to cash in on that. Nice!

If your audience is into budget-friendly stays, then this is one of the best travel affiliate programs for you.

It’s been quite a few years since our team has stayed in a hostel, but while researching, we found dozens of links to Hostelworld on many of the top-ranking travel blogs. This just confirms how appealing, and successful, this market is.

11. Skyscanner

Niche: Airline tickets, hotels and car rental
Commission rate: Up to 20% on bookings
URL to join: Skyscanner Partners
Perks: Tools for integration (widgets, banners, links)
Cons: Strict affiliate marketer requirements

More than 100 million users visit Skyscanner each month to plan their next trip. Skyscanner is a trusted global brand that offers a competitive commission each time someone books through your link.

They have access to more than 1,200 supply partners in 180 countries, which means you’ll definitely find an offering that appeals to your audience.

But, not just anyone can sign up for Skyscanner’s Affiliate Program. You need a working website with an HTTPS status. You also need to have more than 5,000 unique visitors each month and offer up-to-date content and good UX.

If you tick all the boxes, Skyscanner can be a reliable affiliate program choice, offering you up to 20% commission on booking through your referral links.

12. Travelpayouts

Niche: Travel partnership platform
Commission rate: Depends on brand
Cookie duration: Ranges from single session to 365 days
URL to join: Travelpayouts Partnership Platform
Perks: Support team, free education, integration tools, and access to 100+ brands
Cons: Bank transfer $400 minimum threshold

Travelpayouts is slightly different from all the other travel affiliate programs on this list.

Instead of running a single affiliate program, Travelpayouts offers multiple affiliate programs within the travel industry.

This platform offers access to more than 90 different travel affiliate programs, with some being exclusive to their affiliate network. It’s considered a cost-per-action travel partnership platform where some of the best travel affiliate programs are found under one roof. This includes a couple of the programs already mentioned on this list.

So, if you don’t want to sign up for all the different programs on our list, you can simply check out Travelpayouts to see who they’re working with.

There’s more good news: There are no minimum traffic requirements to become a Travelpayouts affiliate marketer. That means even if you’re a complete beginner, you can get started with this program.

Niche: General travel
Commission rate: Up to 50%
URL to join: KAYAK Affiliate Program
Perks: Access to several brands and integration tools
Cons: Minimum payment threshold of $500

KAYAK is not exactly an affiliate network, although at first glance it does look like one. This is because KAYAK actually owns several travel brands – including Momondo, Cheapflights, and HotelsCombined. So when you sign up to KAYAK’s affiliate program, you get access to these brands too!

Travelers commonly turn to KAYAK for flights, car rentals, hotel stays, and activities. This metasearch engine is huge in the US, with more than 6 million annual searches. Wild.

Commissions vary, but you can expect to earn up to 50% on bookings, clicks, and ad revenue across their travel offerings.

14. World Nomads

Niche: Travel insurance
Commission rate: 10% on sales
Cookie duration: 60 days
URL to join: World Nomads Affiliate Program
Perks: Integration tools, ongoing support, and a platform that is recommended by big brands like Lonely Planet and Contiki
Cons: Insurance-related content is difficult to rank for

World Nomads is the only travel insurance site on our list because it, arguably, offers the best affiliate program for this niche.

According to World Nomads, they “ aim to be a part of every adventurous traveler’s journey by providing travelers a range of travel insurance and safety services “.

And we admit – travel insurance is not the sexiest affiliate program. But once you consider that World Nomads is sold in over 100 countries and you can earn up to 10% commission, it does become a lot more attractive.

Becoming a Travel Affiliate

Now you know which are the best travel affiliate programs. But, how can YOU become a travel affiliate?

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Building Your Site/Audience

If you don’t already have a travel website or blog, it is time to get started. A couple of the travel affiliate programs on the list above do not invest in social media influencers, so it’s best to get a website with steady traffic going now.

You also need to build rapport with your audience. No one will trust a spammy website littered with links. Instead, you should offer personalized experiences and up-to-date content.

Share your travel stories, give tips on where to go and stay, and aim to inspire your audience to take your advice.

Promoting Travel Offers

No one likes a tourist trap – not in real life and certainly not online.

You need to promote your content (and unique referral links) in such a way that your readers want to check out your recommendations without feeling like you’re shoving it in their faces.

It’s not always possible to collaborate directly with brands to get the best travel deals, so working with an affiliate program to find the best offers and promote them on your site is a good alternative.

The best way to do this is to stay on trend!

For example, before 2020 almost everyone had a travel bucket list that they wanted to tick off. From visiting the Eiffel Tower to walking the Great Wall of China. Luxury travel was definitely on the rise.

The post-2020 era saw an increase in digital nomads and sustainable travel.

These trends are sure to change again, and you’ll have to craft content that competes.

Here are some post ideas for your travel site:

Listicles: You can create lists of your top destinations, activities, or stays.
Personal itineraries: Share your own travel experiences.
Destination deep-dives: Focus on a single destination, offering tips on stays, excursions, and how to get there.

But, you’ll also notice, everyone is writing these kinds of travel posts. According to Nina Clapperton of She Knows SEO , the trick to travel affiliate marketing is to “turn your entire site into a sales funnel.” Don’t start at conversion – start at the beginning and direct them through internal links to the affiliate link. You’ll build trust by focusing on informational posts and the pain points of your audience.

Maximizing Earnings

You need to find the right balance between programs that offer high commissions and those that are likely to convert.

There’s no point in signing up for an affiliate program that offers 50% commission if no one in your audience is interested in their offering.

You should be in this for the long haul. So choose a program that is guaranteed to appeal to your audience and make them want to convert.

Also, don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Affiliate programs close (like Airbnb, which ended its program in 2021 ), so it is good to diversify and sign up for more than one program to maximize earnings.

Or, you can sign up for an affiliate network, like Travelpayouts or ShareASale, where you can find dozens of travel affiliate marketing programs.

How To Choose The Right Travel Affiliate Program

Still not quite sure which travel affiliate programs to sign up for? We’ve got you covered.

Here are some tips for choosing the right program:

Align your niche: You want to pick an affiliate program that aligns with your website’s niche, content, and your audience’s interest. A generic travel affiliate program might not convert as well as a niche-specific one. For example, if you have a travel site about backpacking the world, then luxury travel affiliate programs will be a bad fit.
Evaluate commission and conversion rates: Programs vary widely in their commission and payment structures. Some offer high commissions of up to 50%, but the conversion rates might be low. Look for programs with good commission rates and track conversion rates to ensure it’s profitable.
Check the cookie duration: The longer you will get credit for a referral after users click on your link, the higher the chance of conversions materializing. The most common cookie duration ranges from 30 to 90 days, but some programs offer up to 365 days!
Compare tools and resources: All the programs we included above offer some kind of integration tool package. You’ll want to choose a program with reliable lead-generation tools as well as a dedicated support team to help you with any issues.
Investigate payment reliability: You can review affiliate forums to see how reliably a specific program pays its affiliate marketers. Reputable affiliate programs or networks will pay on schedule.

18 Best Travel Affiliate Programs in 2024 (Top Offers)

With travel affiliate programs, you can make money online by writing about your favorite topic. There’s certainly a lot of money to be made in the travel niche.

In 2019 alone, spending on leisure tourism passed $4.6 trillion , with 1.5 billion international tourist arrivals recorded in that year. According to our affiliate marketing statistics, the average travel website earns nearly $14,000 per month

Granted, the travel industry has taken a beating at the hands of the coronavirus. But you can bet it’ll bounce back. Our desire to travel hasn’t gone away — it’s just taken a short hiatus.

Because building a travel blog or website from scratch takes time, it makes sense to get started now so you’re ready to make money when things are back to normal.

Take the first step by reading our round-up of the 18 best travel affiliate programs you can sign up for right now. Ready to join thousands of other travel bloggers and earn some serious passive income promoting your favorite travel sites? Let’s look at the top affiliate programs in the travel industry.

Travel Affiliate Programs

Expedia affiliate program
Booking.com affiliate program
Agoda affiliate program
Tripadvisor affiliate program
Hotels.com affiliate program
G Adventures affiliate program
Travelpayouts affiliate program
Kayak affiliate program
Viator affiliate program
World Nomads affiliate program
GetYourGuide affiliate program
REI affiliate program
Take Walks affiliate program
InsureMyTrip affiliate program
TrustedHousesitters affiliate program
Hostelworld affiliate program
Safety Wings affiliate program
Amazon Associates

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Expedia is one of the world’s biggest travel brands, offering access to over 140,000 properties worldwide, plus discounted flights, vacation packages, cruises, and car rentals.

Its network of more than 500 travel partnerships with accommodation and airline suppliers allows travelers to save up to $500 on combined airline tickets and hotel bookings .

Through its loyalty program, users earn points to spend on future travel experiences, providing an additional incentive to book through Expedia.

The Expedia affiliate program pays different commissions based on the type of successful referral you drive, ranging from 2% on rental cars to 6% on cruise bookings.

While the seven-day cookie window is one of the worst among the affiliate programs on this list, the seven-day EPC of more than $83 shows there’s plenty of affiliate income to be made here.

URL: Expedia affiliate program
Commission: 2% – 6%
Cookie duration: 7 days

2 Booking.com

Booking.com is an online platform covering travel services like hotel bookings, airline tickets, and car rentals.

It’s one of the most popular travel comparison sites, with almost 30 million bookable rooms in more than 2.5 million properties.

The strength of Booking.com’s partner relationships means users never have to pay booking fees, which often helps it undercut the competition.

Given the strength of its brand and the scale of its offering, it’s no surprise that Booking.com runs one of the most popular travel affiliate programs, with more than 12,500 travel affiliates signed up.

Whether travel bloggers, influencers, or anyone else, they earn 4% on all bookings. The seven-day EPC of $160+ makes this one of the highest paying affiliate programs in the travel niche.

Affiliates can also access an offers search box, banner integration options, and deep linking.

However, it’s not all good news because the cookie window is session-based — so you only earn money if someone clicks your referral link and converts right there.

So make absolutely sure to send warm, pre-qualified traffic only to Booking.com.

URL: Booking.com affiliate program
Commission: 4%
Cookie duration: Session-based

Agoda is one of the world’s largest online travel accommodation platforms, with a network of more than two million vacation rentals and hotel bookings.

Rather than specializing in a single area of the travel niche, it offers deals on business, leisure, solo, and family travelers, from the biggest resorts to the smallest hidden gems. That means more audiences for travel bloggers to target.

Agoda’s travel affiliate program focuses on travel bloggers because it’s only open to people with their own websites. In other words, there are no social influencers.

If you qualify, you can earn up to 7% commissions for each successful referral, more than the other big booking portals offer.

You can also access hotel power ads, text links, and other tools to increase affiliate marketing commissions.

URL: Agoda affiliate program
Commission: Up to 7%
Cookie duration: 30 days

4 Tripadvisor

You probably know Tripadvisor is an online review platform. That’s its main purpose, and it does it better than anyone, with the site boasting approximately 884 million reviews as of 2020.

However, it’s also a portal that lets you book hotels and activities.

Accommodation is the sole focus of the Tripadvisor affiliate program. Affiliate marketers earn a 50% split of the money Tripadvisor earns from hotels, whereas it pays no commission on flights, restaurants, vacation rentals, or tourist attractions.

That 50% commission is already pretty generous but rises as high as 80% during incentive campaigns.

Another interesting vagary of this affiliate program is that no booking is required for you to earn a commission . Instead, you earn money every time a user sent from your site clicks out from Tripadvisor to any of its booking partners.

With conversion rates 30%+, the Tripadvisor program can be one of the highest paying affiliate programs in the travel niche (provided you can drive enough traffic).

URL: Tripadvisor affiliate program
Commission: 50%
Cookie duration: Two weeks

5 Hotels.com

As its name suggests, Hotels.com is a major provider of hotel accommodations, with a portfolio spanning more than one million properties in 200 countries.

Whether you’re looking for a glitzy resort or a tiny bed-and-breakfast, you’ll likely find it here.

Hotels.com runs 85 localized websites in more than 35 languages, so unlike some referral programs , you can tap into a truly global audience.

However, it runs multiple affiliate programs through the Commission Junction affiliate network, each focusing on travelers in a specific market.

If you only sign up for the US & Canada affiliate program, you’ll only earn commission on bookings from customers in those locations.

To make life easier, Hotels.com allows affiliate marketers to promote exclusive voucher codes with competitive discounts.

URL: Hotels.com affiliate program
Commission: 4%

6 G Adventures

G Adventures positions itself as the leader in small-group adventure travel.

Rather than booking fly-and-flop trips to all-inclusive resorts, its customers want to live like a local in the Amazon, tour North Asia by rail, or go mountain trekking in Nepal.

So it’s in a relatively niche market — albeit one that’s still projected to be worth $1.6 trillion by 2026. That makes this one of the best affiliate programs for adventure travel blogs.

Another upside of the adventure travel niche is the premium prices. These are often once-in-a-lifetime trips, so people aren’t necessarily looking for the cheapest option.

So, while the 6% commission rate doesn’t sound spectacular, it becomes much more attractive when you learn that G Adventures’ average order value is $2,600.

URL: G Adventures affiliate program
Commission: 6% per sale
Cookie duration: 60 days

7 Travelpayouts

Whereas the other travel sites on this list are all brands running individual affiliate programs, Travelpayouts is a pay-per-action affiliate network offering multiple referral programs focusing on everything from flights and hotel bookings to car rental services and insurance.

Travelpayouts offers access to more than 90 travel affiliate programs from brands like Vrbo, Tripadvisor, and Hilton Honors, some of which are exclusive to the affiliate network.

Since 2011, it’s paid over $28 million in commissions to approximately 300,000 affiliates.

The Travelpayouts affiliate network shares up to 70% of its earnings with referral partners.

Affiliate marketers can earn 1.1% – 1.15% of the total booking value on flights and 4% – 5% on hotels.

All of these factors make this one a bit of a no-brainer.

URL: Travelpayouts affiliate network
Commission: Varies
Cookie duration: Varies

👉 Read more: Travelpayouts review

Talking of affiliate networks, let’s take a look at Kayak.

Because Kayak owns many brands — including HotelsCombined, Momondo, and Kayak — it effectively runs its own travel affiliate network.

Combined, those brands generate over six billion travel searches yearly, work with over two million properties, and pay out over $76 million in annual affiliate earnings.

Getting access to multiple travel affiliate programs through a single signup sounds like a pretty good deal. And it gets even better when you consider Kayak’s 50% commission rate.

The only real downside is the payment threshold—you won’t see any of your commissions until your earnings reach $500.

URL: Kayak affiliate program

For many of us, travel is all about the experience. And Viator is basically a one-stop-shop for those experiences, with more than 395,000 attractions and things to do in 2,500 destinations.

Viator goes out of its way to smooth the path to conversion. It supports over 35 languages, has a catalog of more than one million reviews to help customers make the right booking, and offers cancellations up to 24 hours in advance on 85% of its affiliate products.

That makes it a lot easier for affiliate marketers to monetize the traffic they refer.

Travel bloggers and other content partners earn an 8% commission on each booking, and the 30-day cookie is more generous than many of the referral programs on this list.

URL: Viator affiliate program
Commission: 8%

10 World Nomads

World Nomads is the first travel insurance provider on this list.

As its name suggests, World Nomads focuses on what it calls the “intrepid” travel market, with its various travel insurance policies offering coverage for more than 200 activities and protecting against things like trip cancellation and medical emergencies.

It is recommended by many big-name travel brands, such as Lonely Planet, which is a major trust factor.

Another strong selling point is the company’s ethical credentials. More than 70% of its customers make a micro-donation when purchasing a travel insurance policy.

Over the years, World Nomads has used this approach to raise more than $3 million, which has helped support over 100 projects worldwide.

As if that wasn’t enough reason for affiliate marketers to promote World Nomads, the brand’s affiliate program offers commissions of $0.83 per qualified sale with a generous 60-day cookie window.

URL: World Nomads affiliate program
Commission: $0.83

11 GetYourGuide

Local knowledge can often make a big difference to your holiday experience.

That’s where GetYourGuide — a Berlin-based online travel agency and marketplace for tour guides and excursions — comes in. The site boasts a catalog of more than 34,000 tours and activities across the world, including big hitters like the Sistine Chapel and the Louvre Museum.

Affiliate marketers earn 8% commissions through the GetYourGuide travel affiliate program, with an opportunity for higher rates on a per-partner basis.

To help drive affiliate sales, the brand runs regular promotions, offers a lower price guarantee, and allows last-minute bookings.

URL: GetYourGuide affiliate program

Amazon might be the go-to destination for general last-minute travel purchases, but REI is the place for specialist outdoor gear .

It’s been a fixture of the outdoor industry for over eight decades and operates 165 retail stores across the US, which means its brand is super strong.

If you need a new backpack, hiking boots, or trekking pole, REI has what you need.

This isn’t a conventional travel affiliate program, but there are still many monetization opportunities for travel blogs.

While a 5% commission doesn’t sound like much, the site’s average order value of more than $120 makes it much better.

What’s more, it offers free pickups from REI stores and free shipping on orders of $50+, offering plenty of incentives for readers to click your text links.

URL: REI affiliate program
Commission: 5% per sale
Cookie duration: 15 days

13 Take Walks

Take Walks is a tour booking service that works with up to 600 guides in 13 of the world’s most vibrant cities—from Paris and Rome to New Orleans and New York. More than one million travelers have booked its guided tours.

Prices aren’t especially cheap — for instance, its Paris tours range from $44 – $252. But they exclusively cater to small groups and often include special access to major attractions, sometimes with skip-the-line access.

Those premium prices make this affiliate program look more attractive. Which travel blogger wouldn’t want to earn a 15% commission on a $250 booking?

URL: Take Walks affiliate program
Commission: 15% per sale
Cookie duration: 45 days

14 InsureMyTrip

As you can probably guess, InsureMyTrip is another travel insurance site.

Unlike World Nomads, InsureMyTrip is a comparison site that works with multiple travel insurance providers, including AIG, AXA, and IMG.

To help international travelers make the right choice on their travel insurance purchases, it offers more than 100,000 ratings and reviews from previous customers.

The InsureMyTrips affiliate program offers a choice of affiliate models — referral-based and commission-based.

Terms appear to be decided per case, so you must sign up via a simple online form and check with their affiliate manager to see how much you can earn.

URL: InsureMyTrip affiliate program
Commission: Undisclosed
Cookie duration: Undisclosed

15 TrustedHousesitters

No one likes to leave their furry friend behind when going on holiday.

Fortunately, TrustHousesitters offers a solution — choose a sitter to move into your house and look after your pets while you’re away.

The site has property owners in 130 countries, from London townhouses to Hawaiian beachfront homes.

Users pay a membership fee, starting at $129 a year, that enables them to either:

Bid for the right to become live-in pet sitters and stay in the owner’s house for free
Access unlimited pet and home care from verified sitters

Either way, that’s a great deal!

As such, TrustedHousesitters effectively runs two separate travel affiliate programs. Like how Airbnb used to run a host affiliate program and a guest affiliate program, affiliate marketers can earn up to 40% commission for referring sitters, owners, or combined to TrustedHousesitters.

URL: TrustedHousesitters affiliate program
Commission: Up to 40%

16 Hostelworld

Hostelworld is another big travel booking platform. But whereas Booking.com and Expedia are generalists, Hostelworld focuses specifically on the hostel experience, offering more than 36,000 hostels in 179 countries.

To help travelers make the right choice, its listings are backed up by over 13 million verified guest reviews.

Hostelworld runs one of the most popular affiliate programs in this profitable niche, with members including Culture Trip, Lonely Planet, and Tripadvisor, plus high-profile travel bloggers like The Broke Backpacker.

That’s always a sign that a referral program is worth joining.

Commissions are earned on a CPA basis, calculated as up to 40% of the deposit earned by Hostelworld for each booking.

URL: Hostelworld affiliate program
Commission: Up to 40% of the deposit

17 SafetyWing

SafetyWing sells travel insurance catered to two specific audiences:

Digital nomads
Remote teams and entrepreneurs

Those are two markets that aren’t served by many mainstream insurance providers, so there’s plenty of incentive for a qualified reader to click an affiliate link and buy a policy.

Whichever policy you promote, the SafetyWing affiliate program offers a 10% commission rate and an extremely generous 365-day cookie window — the longest referral program on this list.

As another sweetener, SafetyWing pays out once a month through PayPal when you reach a minimum earning threshold of just $10.

URL: SafetyWing affiliate program
Commission: 10% per sale
Cookie duration: 365 days

18 Amazon Associates

Travel isn’t just about booking flights and hotels. You need to buy countless other things ahead of a big trip, from luggage and travel adaptors to clothes and sunglasses.

And where do you buy all that stuff from in a hurry? Amazon.

As affiliate marketers in any niche will tell you, the terms of the Amazon Associates program aren’t exactly the most generous.

Commissions vary from category to category — for instance, you can earn 4% on clothing sales but just 3% on sports gear and a measly 1% on health and personal care products.

Moreover, the cookie window runs for a mere 24 hours, so if your referrals aren’t highly qualified, you won’t earn a penny through the Amazon affiliate program .

On the flip side, Amazon has a huge brand and is widely trusted, so it’s not a tough sell to persuade people to buy.

Plus, you get a cut of any sales made by your referrals during the 24-hour window, so you might earn an unexpected bonus commission.

URL: Amazon affiliate program
Commission: 4% on Apparel
Cookie duration: 24 hours

👉 Check out our step-by-step guide on How to Become an Amazon Affiliate .

✈️ Conclusion

As you can see, there’s no shortage of quality travel affiliate programs with high potential to generate income.

And that’s without even mentioning three huge travel sites — Airbnb, Hotels Combined, and Skyscanner — that had paused their affiliate programs at the time of writing.

But don’t think you can simply start a travel blog and immediately earn passive income.

For starters, you’ll need to build your travel website, carry out keyword research, and write high-quality content to compete with all the travel bloggers already doing it.

(Explore our curated selection of 15 travel blog examples for a dose of inspiration for your own website. )

And that’s before you’ve thought about the right affiliate programs for your target audience.

It’s hard work. But it’s not impossible. Many travel affiliate marketers have made it work, and so can you – especially with us in your corner!

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11 Best Travel Affiliate Programs for 2024

Table of Contents

Are you a dedicated globetrotter with a burning passion for travel? What if we told you that you could turn your love for exploring the world into a lucrative source of income? Welcome to the exciting world of travel affiliate programs for 2024. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you on a journey through the top 10 travel affiliate programs of the leading travel sites, each offering unique opportunities to earn high commissions while sharing your enthusiasm for travel. Whether you're a seasoned travel blogger or just embarking on your digital adventure, these affiliate programs will help you transform your wanderlust into a revenue stream.

Become a Tripshepherd Partner & Get Rewarded!

What is a Travel Affiliate Program?

Before we dive into the thrilling realm of travel affiliate programs, let's start by demystifying what exactly a travel affiliate program entails. In essence, a travel affiliate program is a collaborative partnership between you (the affiliate) and a travel-related company. Your role is to promote the affiliate products or services of this company on your blog or website, and in return, you earn a commission for every sale or referral generated through your unique affiliate link. It's a symbiotic relationship – you get to share your passion for travel, while the company gains new customers through your promotional efforts.

Top 10 Affiliate Programs for Travel Bloggers

If you're a travel blogger, you're in a prime position to leverage affiliate marketing to generate a passive income stream. Travel affiliate programs offer you the chance to monetize your blog by endorsing products or services that align seamlessly with your content. Regardless of whether you focus on budget travel, luxury escapades, or thrilling adventures, there's a travel affiliate program tailored to your niche. Let's embark on a voyage through some of the finest travel affiliate programs specially curated for bloggers in 2024.

1. Tripshepherd Affiliate Program

Become a Tripshepherd partner and transform your wanderlust into wealth with our affiliate program!

(Photo via @seesighttours / Instagram)

With this program, you'll get:

Access to Premium Content

Boost your earnings with Tripshepherds' exceptional content, meticulously designed to captivate your audience.

Hassle-Free Payouts

Enjoy peace of mind with monthly commissions deposited directly into your account.

Reliable Tracking

Track your sales effortlessly and earn credit for every referral, courtesy of our cutting-edge tracking platforms.

Rewarding Your Passion

The Tripshepherd affiliate partner program is your golden ticket to igniting your audience's wanderlust.

A Plethora of Attractions to Showcase

Our extensive inventory unlocks a world of possibilities tailored to each traveler's unique desires. Tripshepherd operates in over 20 cities across the USA and Canada, promising your audience an ever-expanding array of experiences guided by our seasoned tour experts.

Our small group tours, backed by the raving reviews of millions of travelers, are led by enthusiastic tour guides. With over 5,000 glowing reviews, we wholeheartedly share our passion for our offerings. Join our ranks and become a cherished member of our team to unlock the gateway to earnings through our affiliate program!

Spread the wanderlust among your audience and channel traffic to our website. Reap the rewards—start earning commissions for the traffic you steer our way by sharing your unique trackable link.

Ready to embark on our journey together?

Apply now and become an integral part of our ever-growing Tripshepherd family.

Be a Part of the Tripshepherd Family & Earn a Generous Commission!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Let's unravel some of the common queries you may have about travel affiliate programs:

Is this program open to everyone?

Absolutely! Anyone, including existing Tripshepherd customers, is welcome to apply and become a Tripshepherd affiliate. Once approved, you'll gain access to a Tripshepherd dashboard, providing entry to our vibrant marketplace. It's worth noting that while affiliates can access the marketplace, having a listing there requires being a customer. Nevertheless, you'll have the privilege of exploring the marketplace and joining any program that piques your interest.

How will my referrals be tracked?

Tracking your referrals is effortless through the unique affiliate link provided within your Tripshepherd dashboard. This link enables you to monitor clicks and trace your referrals' journey through the Tripshepherd sales cycle until they either close or are lost.

Is there a limit to the number of referrals?

No, there are no limitations. Feel free to refer as many enthusiastic travelers as you can!

How do I get paid?

To receive your well-deserved commissions, you'll need to set up your PayPal or Stripe account via your Tripshepherddashboard. Once your registered deal closes, you'll receive immediate payment.

What Tripshepherd Affiliate Program Offers:

- Earn a generous 12% commission on every successful booking.

- Gain access to a diverse array of high-quality tours and experiences across the USA and Canada.

- Enjoy dedicated support to assist you on your affiliate journey.

- Utilize a user-friendly tracking and reporting system for seamless management.

- Collaborate on promotional strategies to maximize your earnings.

- Benefit from a generous cookie duration of 30 days.

Now, let's embark on a virtual tour of more remarkable affiliate programs promoting travel, each offering unique opportunities to explore the world while earning commissions.

2. Tiqets.com Affiliate Program

Unlock new streams of revenue and offer your audience unparalleled access to the world's finest museums and attractions through the Tiqets Affiliate Program . Join over 3,800 partners, ranging from travel bloggers to ticket agents, who are already reaping the rewards of partnering with Tiqets.

With Tiqets, your customers will enjoy seamless access to over 4,100 museums and attractions worldwide, thanks to their 100% mobile, real-time ticket availability. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Tiqets' direct partnerships ensure instant booking confirmation and last-minute availability for your audience. With content available in up to 14 languages and a variety of payment options, you can cater to a global audience with ease.

But the benefits don't stop there. Drive more revenue with Tiqets' marketing expertise and merchandising capabilities. Their targeted upsells, including VR experiences, exclusive exhibitions, and audio guides will increase your margin per customer and enhance their overall experience.

Plus, with Tiqets' expert support, you'll have access to personalized insights into your customer base and Tiqets’ specialized in-depth reviewing system. Their 24/7 multilingual customer service ensures that you and your customers receive the assistance you need, whenever you need it.

With Tiqets' Affiliate Program, you'll gain access to a vast network of cultural experiences, ensuring that your audience can explore the world's wonders with ease. From ancient landmarks to modern marvels, Tiqets offers a seamless booking experience that will delight travelers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Join thousands of partners who have experienced exponential growth and success with the Tiqets Affiliate Program. From seamless integration to timely support, Tiqets is committed to providing you with the tools and resources you need to succeed.

Ready to offer your customers more ways to explore culture? Join the Tiqets Affiliate Program today and unlock the door to new opportunities for your business!

3. TripAdvisor Affiliate Program

Discover a World of Reviews and Bookings!

If you're captivated by the world of reviews and bookings, TripAdvisor's affiliate program is your perfect match. Renowned as an online review platform, TripAdvisor also serves as a booking platform or portal for hotels and activities. As an affiliate, you can earn a remarkable 50% commission on the revenue TripAdvisor generates from hotel bookings. Even more enticing, there's no need for users to make a booking for you to earn a commission.

You'll pocket money every time a user redirected from your site clicks out to any of TripAdvisor's partners (other booking platforms). With conversion rates exceeding 30%, this program can be one of the most lucrative options in the travel niche, provided you can drive sufficient traffic. The cookie duration is two weeks, offering ample time for potential conversions. If you're enthusiastic about accommodation and have an audience eager to explore the world, TripAdvisor's affiliate program is your passport to enticing earnings.

4. Expedia Affiliate Program

Unlock a World of Travel Possibilities!

Expedia, one of the travel industry's giants, opens doors to more than 140,000 properties globally, along with discounted flights, vacation deals, boat trips, and car rentals. With over 500 travel partnerships, Expedia allows travelers to save up to $500 on hotels by booking a flight, car, or package. As an affiliate, you can join the Expedia Partner Solutions program , which offers access to a treasure trove of travel products and the opportunity to earn commissions on completed bookings.

The commission structure varies depending on the product, but it can be highly competitive. Generally, the commission earned is 2% to 6%. The cookie duration is a standard 7 days. To assist you in your affiliate journey, Expedia provides access to a suite of marketing tools and dedicated support. With Expedia's reputable brand and extensive offerings, this affiliate program is an alluring choice for those who aim to convert their love for travel into affiliate income.

5. Booking.com Affiliate Program

Embark on a Journey of Earnings!

Booking.com, a global leader in accommodations, offers travelers a vast selection of hotels, apartments, villas, and more. The Booking.com Affiliate Partner Program allows you to tap into this expansive inventory and earn commissions by driving bookings through your affiliate links. The program provides access to 30 million listings in more than 227 countries and territories.

Commissions are typically 4% on all bookings. The cookie window operates on a session basis, meaning you'll earn a commission when someone clicks your referral link and converts instantly. Booking.com also offers a wide range of promotional materials, including search boxes, banners, and deep linking to help you optimize your affiliate marketing efforts. With its global reach and broad accommodation options, this travel website's affiliate program is a compelling choice for travel enthusiasts looking to monetize their passion and enhance their travel experience.

6. Amazon Associates

Explore a Universe of Affiliate Opportunities!

While not exclusively a travel affiliate program, Amazon Associates opens doors to a vast array of travel-related products and accessories. As a travel blogger or content creator, you can harness the power of Amazon's extensive product catalog to recommend travel gear, books, gadgets, and more. With a commission structure that varies based on the product category, you can earn anywhere from 1% to 4% or even more on qualifying purchases made through your affiliate links.

The cookie duration is 24 hours, meaning you'll earn a commission on any products added to a customer's cart within that time frame. What sets Amazon Associates apart from other referral programs is its versatility – you can seamlessly integrate travel-related recommendations into your existing content. Whether it's travel guides, luggage, electronics, or travel-themed gifts, Amazon Associates offers a world of possibilities for affiliate marketers in the travel niche.

7. Skyscanner Affiliate Program

Navigate the Skies of Affiliate Earnings!

Skyscanner, a popular flight comparison website, boasts a robust affiliate program that allows you to earn commissions by directing users to their platform. With Skyscanner's vast database of flight options, travelers can compare prices and find the best deals on airfare. The affiliate program offers a competitive commission structure, rewarding you for both flight bookings and car hire referrals.

Commissions can range from a fixed fee to a percentage (as high as 20%) of the booking value, depending on the user's location and the type of referral. The cookie duration is 30 days, providing ample time for users to finalize their travel plans. Skyscanner also provides a range of customizable widgets and search boxes that you can integrate into your travel-focused content. If you cater to an audience of jet-setters and frequent flyers, the Skyscanner affiliate program is a valuable addition to your monetization strategy.

8. Viator Affiliate Program

Embark on Adventures, Earn Generously!

Viator, a subsidiary of TripAdvisor, specializes in offering travelers a vast array of tours, activities, and experiences. Their affiliate program allows you to promote and earn commissions on these exciting adventures. With access to over 395,000 attractions worldwide, Viator offers an impressive selection for travelers seeking memorable experiences. You can expect to earn an 8% generous commission with each booking!

The cookie duration is a substantial 30 days, ensuring you have ample time to earn commissions on bookings made by your referred customers. Viator has more than one million reviews in its catalog to help you effectively market their offerings. Make sure to market the tours with a high number of reviews. If your travel-focused content revolves around experiential adventures and unique activities, the Viator affiliate program can be a lucrative addition to your affiliate portfolio!

9. Hotels.com Affiliate Program

Find Your Path to Affiliate Success!

Hotels.com, known for its extensive selection of hotels and accommodations, offers an affiliate program that empowers you to earn commissions through hotel bookings. With access to over one million properties in 200 countries, Hotels.com provides travelers with a wide range of options for their stays. The commission structure typically ranges from 4% to 6% of the booking value, depending on the type of accommodation and the number of bookings you drive.

The cookie duration is 7 days, offering a reasonable window for potential conversions. Hotels.com equips you with a variety of marketing materials, including banners, text links, and customizable widgets, to enhance your affiliate marketing efforts. If your audience consists of travelers seeking diverse lodging options, the Hotels.com affiliate program is a valuable addition to your affiliate strategy.

10. Agoda Affiliate Program

Discover Affiliate Opportunities in Accommodations!

Agoda , a prominent online travel agency, specializes in offering globetrotters a vast selection of accommodations and travel services, including flights, hotels, car rentals, and more. Their affiliate program enables you to earn commissions by promoting their extensive range of lodging options. Commissions typically range from 4% to 7% of the booking value, depending on the type of accommodation and the number of bookings you generate.

The cookie duration is 30 days so you can capitalize on user engagement with ease. Agoda provides access to various promotional materials, including hotel power ads and text links, to support your affiliate marketing efforts. If your niche revolves around accommodations and lodging choices, the Agoda affiliate program offers a compelling opportunity to monetize your travel-focused content and earn passive income.

11. World Nomads Affiliate Program

Insure Your Way to Affiliate Success!

World Nomads , a renowned travel insurance provider, offers an affiliate program tailored for travel enthusiasts. This program allows you to promote travel insurance plans and earn commissions on policy sales. With World Nomads, travelers can access comprehensive travel insurance coverage designed to provide peace of mind during their adventures.

Commissions are typically 10% per qualified sale of the policy premium. The cookie duration is 60 days, offering a generous window for potential conversions. World Nomads equips you with a range of marketing materials, including banners and text links, to enhance your affiliate marketing efforts. If your audience prioritizes travel safety and protection, the World Nomads affiliate program is a valuable addition to your affiliate portfolio.

Conclusion:

As a dedicated traveler and content creator, you hold the key to turning your wanderlust into wealth through these top 10 travel affiliate programs for 2024. Each program offers a unique opportunity to monetize your passion for travel, from hotel bookings and flights to tours and travel insurance. Whether you're a seasoned travel blogger or just starting on your affiliate journey, there's a program tailored to your niche and audience. Start your affiliate adventure today and embark on a profitable voyage while sharing the joy of travel with your audience. Join hands with these reputable travel companies and unlock the door to a world of earnings. The world is waiting, and your journey to affiliate success begins now!

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29 Best Travel Affiliate Programs in 2024

April 9, 2024

Affiliate Disclosure: We may earn a commission if you buy something through the links on this page (at no extra cost).

The travel niche offers many affiliate marketing opportunities because there is so much terrain to cover. For instance, a travel content creator can discuss her experiences, tips, hacks, things to do, places to visit, dining, nightlife, tours, reviews, travel reward cards, and more. Therefore, this post covers the best travel affiliate programs for beginners, bloggers, and social media marketers (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, etc.).

Millions travel annually for pleasure and business, making the trillion-dollar travel and tourism industry lucrative. However, margins are tiny for many travel products and services, negatively impacting what advertisers can pay affiliates. Therefore, commission rates tend to be single or low double digits.

Best Travel Affiliate Programs

FlexOffers and CJ Affiliate offer robust selections of high-paying advertisers in various travel niches, whereas Impact, ShareASale, and Rakuten Advertising each have over 100 programs. The minimum payout threshold for these networks ranges from $10 to $50. Once you exceed the minimum, you’ll receive your commissions.

Standard travel categories include accessories, accommodations, airfare, attractions, car rentals, cruises, flights, hotels, insurance, luggage, parking, sightseeing, tours, transportation, and vacations. Since most merchants only pay for sales and bookings, you won’t find many pay-per-lead affiliate programs in the travel sector.

Booking.com

Booking customers can purchase accommodations, flights, car rentals, attractions, airport taxis, and more. Users can search by property type, including hotels, apartments, resorts, villas, cabins, guest houses, B&Bs, and cottages. Booking has frequent travel specials starting at 15%. Finally, users can chat with other travelers in various communities.

The Booking affiliate program offers the following incentives:

Commission rate: 4%
Cookie duration: Session-based
Affiliate software/network: CJ Affiliate and in-house

Expedia offers deals on stays, flights, cars, packages, activities, and cruises. They target multiple user profiles and demographics with niche travel categories. Expedia Rewards offers members lower prices on select hotels, points to save on bookings, and more travel benefits. The company began operations in 1996 as a division of Microsoft, which would surprise most people.

The Expedia affiliate program is lucrative for these reasons:

Commission rate: 6%
Cookie duration: 30 days
Affiliate software/network: CJ Affiliate

Kayak’s affiliate network offers access to a global network of travel brands, including HotelsCombined, Momondo, and Cheapflights. Earn money through clicks, bookings, and ad revenue for flights, hotels, cars, and packages. Also, access deep links, widgets, search boxes, white labels, and APIs. Separately, Kayak has multiple programs on CJ Affiliate.

Kayak offers affiliates the following benefits:

Commission rate: Up to 50%
Affiliate software/network: In-house

Momondo is a travel search engine and comparison site. It mainly offers flights but also offers stays, car rentals, activities, packages, and train reservations. Unlike standard travel websites, Momondo is mostly click-through, which directs users to other websites to complete their purchases. Environmentally conscious users can search by CO2 emissions for more sustainable travel.

Affiliates get the following with the Momondo affiliate program:

Commission rate: Up to $0.55

Orbitz offers deals on stays, flights, cars, packages, activities, and cruises. On its homepage, it markets to the LGBTQ+ community. In its featured offers section, last-minute deals, all-inclusive resorts, and flights under $199 are standard categories. In addition, users can earn “Orbucks” on purchases and apply them to hotel bookings (with no blackout dates).

The Orbitz affiliate program offers the following structure:

Commission rate: Up to 5%
Affiliate software/network: CJ Affiliate

Priceline offers discounts on hotels, cars, flights, and cruises. Its “Bundle + Save” feature allows users to combine two travel items for savings: a hotel and a flight. Additionally, Priceline provides free cancellation on most flights, hotels, and car bookings.

Priceline VIP is a membership program offering exclusive discounts. It has four membership levels: Member, Blue, Gold, and Platinum. Moreover, the Priceline VIP Rewards Visa Card is a travel points card.

The Priceline affiliate program is rewarding for these reasons:

Commission rate: 3%

Skyscanner is a leading global travel search site providing instant online comparisons for flights, car rentals, and hotels. It checks 1,200 travel companies for data and pricing. Its ‘Greener choice’ label highlights flights that emit less CO2. Skyscanner sells travel insurance separately.

Marketers get the following with the Skyscanner affiliate program:

Commission rate: 20%
Affiliate software/network: Impact

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Trip specializes in hotels, flights, trains, cars, tours, tickets, and attractions. Users can earn and redeem “Trip Coins” to save instantly on bookings and access exclusive member-only deals. There are four membership levels: Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond.

The Trip affiliate program has the following benefits:

Commission rate: Up to 7%
Affiliate software/network: In-house and Awin

Agoda is one of the fastest-growing online hotel booking platforms worldwide, listing hundreds of thousands of hotels. Agoda offers excellent discounts on vacation rentals, flights, and airport transfers.

Affiliates get the following benefits with the Agoda affiliate program:

Affiliate software/network: ShareASale and in-house

Best Western

Best Western operates hotels in 95 countries, each keeping an individual charm and local appeal.

The Best Western affiliate program offers the following incentives:

Hostelworld

Hostelworld is a leading online travel agent focusing on the hostel market. It inspires adventurers to visit new places, meet new people, and return with extraordinary stories to tell.

The Hostelworld affiliate program is profitable for these reasons:

Commission rate: Up to 40%
Affiliate software/network: Partnerize

Hotels.com offers more than 1,000,000 properties in 200 countries, from hotels and B&Bs to condos and all-inclusive resorts.

Affiliates get the following with the Hotels.com affiliate program:

Commission rate: Up to 4%
Cookie duration: 7 days

HotelsCombined

HotelsCombined looks for hotels and homes from the best travel sites worldwide in seconds. It gathers all the prices, availabilities, and rooms to enable users to filter and compare the best travel options and deals.

The HotelsCombined affiliate program offers the following structure:

Affiliate software/network: Kayak Affiliate Network

Motel 6 & Studio 6

Motel 6 offers fantastic room rates at more than 1,100 locations throughout the United States and Canada.

The Motel 6 affiliate program is rewarding for these reasons:

Commission rate: Up to 6%

FareHarbor is the leading booking platform for tour and activity operators worldwide. Their affiliate network, the FareHarbor Distribution Network (FHDN), connects you with 30,000+ providers of guided tours, outdoor activities, and other experiences in North America and Europe.

The FareHarbor affiliate program is appealing for these reasons:

Commission: 15%
Cookie duration: Lifetime

Go City offers sightseeing passes for destinations around the globe, giving customers the freedom to do what they want and when they want while making incredible savings along the way. Their passes include bucket list attractions, top tours, and plenty of hidden gems, all handpicked by local experts.

Marketers get the following with the Go City affiliate program:

Commission rate: 6%+
Cookie duration: 90 days

GetYourGuide

GetYourGuide helps travelers find, compare, and book sightseeing tours, attractions, excursions, things to do, and fun activities worldwide.

The GetYourGuide affiliate program has the following benefits:

Commission rate: 8%
Cookie duration: 31 days

Contiki provides tours for 18-35s. It offers a mix of sightseeing and culture in over 40 countries across six continents.

The Contiki affiliate program is appealing for these reasons:

Commission rate: 5%
Cookie duration: 45 days

Plum Guide is building the definitive collection of the world’s most remarkable holiday homes. It picks only the top 3% of properties in any destination to ensure high-quality experiences for guests.

Affiliates get the following benefits with the Plum Guide affiliate program:

Commission rate: 7%

VRBO is an online marketplace for vacation rentals with over 1 million properties in 190 countries.

The VBRO affiliate program offers the following incentives:

Commission rate: $20

Discover Cars

Discover Cars makes renting a car easy by connecting customers globally with rental vehicles at affordable prices.

The Discover Cars affiliate program is lucrative for these reasons:

Commission rate: 40%
Cookie duration: 365 days
Affiliate software/network: ShareASale

Localrent.com

Localrent.com aggregates car rental companies in Turkey, Greece, Cyprus, Montenegro, Thailand, and seven other countries. It also works with local car suppliers to offer unique selections.

Affiliates get the following with the Localrent.com affiliate program:

Cookie duration: Up to 60 days

RentalCars.com

RentalCars.com is the world’s largest platform for making online car rental reservations.

The RentalCars affiliate program offers the following structure:

Note: Alamo, Avis, Budget, National, and Thrifty have affiliate programs that pay up to 4%.

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OurBus is a US private bus service aimed at changing how the world travels. Its routes are selected and based on crowdsourced requests from travelers.

The OurBus affiliate program is rewarding for these reasons:

SafetyWing is building the first global safety net for remote-first companies, online freelancers, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads. Also, it offers travel and comprehensive health insurance at affordable prices.

Marketers get the following with the SafetyWing affiliate programs (Nomad Insurance and Remote Health):

Commission rate: Up to 20%
Cookie duration: 364 days

Groupon features daily deals on the best stuff to do, see, eat, and buy in various cities across the United States and the world.

The Groupon affiliate program has the following benefits:

Commission rate: Up to 10%

SeaWorld is a leading theme park and entertainment company providing experiences that matter and inspire.

The SeaWorld affiliate program is appealing for these reasons:

Cookie duration: One day

Travel Guard

Travel Guard is America’s leading travel security company, providing insurance, assistance, and emergency services for millions of travelers and companies worldwide.

The Travel Guard affiliate program offers the following incentives:

Commission rate: $2

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor is a leader in user-generated content and price comparisons. TripAdvisor offers online hotel reservations and bookings for transportation, lodging, travel experiences, and restaurants. User reviews are another feature of TripAdvisor that helps travelers plan their itineraries.

The TripAdvisor affiliate program is lucrative for these reasons:

Commission rate: 50%
Cookie duration: 14 days
Affiliate software/network: Awin and CJ Affiliate

Walt Disney

Walt Disney World is a dream holiday destination for all ages, including families and adults. It features theme parks, rides, attractions, cartoon characters, food, and fun.

Affiliates get the following with the Walt Disney affiliate program:

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises allows you to be in awe of the world again. Take a cruise to the Caribbean, Alaska, and Europe, and return refreshed.

The Princess Cruises affiliate program offers the following structure:

Cookie duration: 60 days
Affiliate software/network: Awin

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean International is a leading cruise holiday company with 22 ships sailing to over 240 ports worldwide.

The Royal Caribbean affiliate program is rewarding for these reasons:

Affiliate software/network: TradeDoubler

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There are hundreds of travel affiliate programs, and I’ve done my best to provide the top ones based on their earnings per click (EPC) and website rankings. I also recommend sifting through what else is available and promoting companies and products/services you use frequently. In my case, that would be Priceline and LATAM Airlines.

You can tie in and promote goods from other categories, including books, magazines, courses, dating, relationships, entertainment, food, health, wellness, lifestyle, and personal finance. For instance, a post entitled, How to Send Money to Your Family While Traveling, could include an affiliate link to Wise . Wise helps people hold, save, transfer, and spend currencies at interbank exchange rates and low fees. It’s a product I frequently use as a globetrotter and digital nomad.

It’s worth noting that Booking Holdings and Expedia Group are the most prominent online travel agency (OTA) and booking industry players. Also, Trip isn’t too far behind.

Booking Holdings brands include Booking.com, Priceline, Agoda, Kayak, Cheapflights.com, HotelsCombined.com, Rentalcars, Momondo, and OpenTable.

Expedia Group brands include Expedia, VRBO, Hotels.com, Hotwire, Orbitz, Travelocity, Trivago, and CarRentals. Furthermore, almost all those websites have affiliate programs.

Trip.com, China’s largest online travel company, owns Skyscanner and other Chinese travel websites.

Airbnb is a market leader for accommodations and activities. However, it has since retired its affiliate and referral programs.

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51 Best Travel Affiliate Programs in 2024 (Highest Payouts)

According to Statista , online sales will generate 76% of revenue in the travel & tourism sector by 2028.

This is because online travel booking is continuously taking up the travel booking market

Travel affiliate programs are a great way for bloggers, influencers, and travel enthusiasts to generate income while doing something they love.

With the rise of online travel booking, flight ticket sales, and tourism, these programs have become increasingly popular in recent years.

In this guide, I explore 51 of the best travel affiliate programs available in 2024. From hotel bookings to flight tickets, we will cover a range of programs that offer competitive commissions and great benefits for affiliates.

Whether you run a travel blog, share your travel experiences on social media, or simply love to explore new destinations, there is a travel affiliate program out there for you.

51 Best Travel Affiliate Programs

Below is the list of the top 51 travel affiliate programs, with their commission rates, types, and cookie durations listed in a table below:

Expedia is a well-known online travel booking platform that offers a wide range of travel-related services, including flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and vacation packages.

It is a one-stop shop for travel enthusiasts who want to plan their trips without any hassle.

Expedia has a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for travelers to book their trips. It offers competitive prices and a wide range of options, making it a popular choice for travelers of all budgets.

Expedia also offers a loyalty program, which rewards customers with points that can be redeemed for travel-related perks.

Expedia’s affiliate program is one of the most popular in the travel industry. It offers competitive commission rates and a wide range of products to promote.

Here are some of the key details of the Expedia affiliate program:

URL: Expedia affiliate program
Commission rate: Up to 8% commission on hotel bookings, 3.5% commission on packages, and 5% commission on flights, car rentals, and activities.
Type: Pay-per-sale
Cookie duration: 7 days
Recurring commissions: No
Payment method: Electronic Funds Transfer, Paypal
Affiliate Network : Partnerize

2. Booking.com

Booking.com is an online travel agency that offers a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, apartments, villas, and hostels.

The platform has over 28 million listings in more than 228 countries and territories worldwide, making it one of the biggest travel booking websites in the world.

Booking.com has some of the best features in the industry, including a user-friendly interface, a mobile app, and a rewards program.

The rewards program, called Genius, offers members access to exclusive discounts and perks, such as free room upgrades and late checkouts.

Booking.com’s affiliate program is open to anyone with a website, blog, or social media account.

Here are the details of Booking.com’s affiliate program:

URL: Booking.com affiliate program
Commission rate: 25-40% of Booking.com’s Commission
Cookie duration : N/A
Payment method: Direct Deposit, PayPal
Affiliate Network : CJ Affiliate, Awin

Agoda is a popular online travel agency that provides booking services for hotels, vacation rentals, flights, and airport transfers. With over 2 million properties worldwide, Agoda offers a wide range of options for travelers to choose from.

In addition, Agoda offers a loyalty program called “Agoda Rewards” that allows members to earn points on their bookings and redeem them for discounts on future bookings.

Agoda’s affiliate program is a great way for travel bloggers, publishers, and website owners to earn commissions by promoting Agoda’s services.

Here are the details of Agoda’s affiliate program :

URL: Agoda’s affiliate program
Commission Rates : Up to 5% commission on hotel bookings
Type: Pay per sale
Cookie Duration: 1 day
Recurring Commissions: No
Payment Method: Direct bank transfer
Affiliate Network: CJ Affiliates

4. Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor is a popular travel website that provides information and reviews on hotels, flights, vacation rentals, restaurants, and activities.

It is a trusted source for travelers looking for recommendations and advice on where to stay, eat, and what to do during their trip.

Tripadvisor’s affiliate program is a great opportunity for travel bloggers and content creators to earn commission by promoting hotels, flights, and vacation rentals from the website.

Here are some details of the Tripadvisor affiliate program :

URL: Tripadvisor affiliate program
Commission rate: Up to 50% on revenue generated from bookings
Cookie duration: 14 days
Payment method: PayPal or direct deposit

5. G Adventures

G Adventures is a world-renowned adventure travel company that provides small group tours, safaris, and expeditions to some of the most awe-inspiring destinations around the globe.

The company prides itself on its commitment to sustainable tourism and responsible travel practices, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious travelers.

G Adventures tours are designed to offer authentic experiences that immerse travelers in the local culture and environment. With a focus on small groups, travelers can expect a more personalized and intimate experience.

If you’re looking to promote G Adventures as an affiliate, you’ll be pleased to know that the company offers a competitive commission rate.

Here are some key details about G Adventures’ affiliate program:

Affiliate Program URL: G Adventures’ affiliate program
Commission Rate: Up to 5% on all confirmed sales
Type: Travel
Cookie Duration: 30 days
Payment Method: PayPal, direct deposit

6. Travelpayouts

Travelpayouts is a digital partnership platform that offers access to over 100 affiliate programs in the travel niche.

It is the largest platform of its kind and has a loyal community of over 390,000 travel affiliate partners.

The platform offers a wide range of travel-related services, including flight, hotel bookings, car rentals, and activities.

Travelpayouts is best for travel bloggers, travel agencies, and other travel-related websites looking to monetize their content. The platform is also suitable for individuals looking to earn passive income through affiliate marketing.

Affiliate Program Details:

URL: Travelpayouts affiliate program
Commission rate: Varies depending on the affiliate program (up to 80% commission on flight bookings)
Type: CPA, RevShare, Hybrid
Cookie duration: Up to 30 days
Recurring commissions: Yes (on flight bookings)
Payment method: PayPal, WebMoney, bank transfer
Affiliate Network: In-house

Kayak is a popular travel search engine that allows users to compare prices from different travel websites, such as airlines, hotels, and car rental companies.

The platform has a user-friendly interface, making it easy for travelers to search for the best deals on flights, hotels, and more.

Kayak’s best features include its ability to search for flights and hotels simultaneously, its “Explore” feature that allows users to find deals on flights to various destinations, and its price alerts that notify users when prices for their desired travel itinerary drop.

The program is open to all types of affiliates, including bloggers, content creators, and website owners.

Here are some key details about Kayak’s affiliate program:

URL: Kayak’s affiliate program
Commission Rate: 50% of revenue generated by user’s click
Type: Pay per click
Cookie Duration: 7 days
Recurring Commissions: None
Payment Method: PayPal, Bank transfer

Viator is a travel company that offers a wide range of tours, activities, and experiences in different parts of the world.

It is a subsidiary of TripAdvisor, a leading online travel company. Viator has a user-friendly website that allows travelers to book tours and activities in advance, making it easier for them to plan their trips.

Viator is best for travelers who want to explore different destinations and have unique experiences.

Viator has a vast selection of tours and activities, including sightseeing tours, adventure activities, food tours, and many more.

Viator’s Affiliate Program is for anyone who loves travel. Whether you create content, provide travel services, or just have a passion for exploring, you can earn money by promoting Viator’s tours and activities.

URL: Viator’s affiliate program
Commission Rate: 8%
Type: Pay per Sale
Payment Method: PayPal, Bank Transfers

9. World Nomads

World Nomads is a travel insurance provider that offers coverage for travelers from over 140 countries. It provides a wide range of insurance plans that include coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellations, emergency evacuations, and more.

World Nomads is a popular choice for travelers who are looking for affordable and comprehensive travel insurance.

World Nomads has an affiliate program that offers competitive commission rates to its affiliates.

Here are the details of the World Nomads affiliate program:

URL: World Nomads affiliate program
Commission Rate: Up to $3.18 per quote
Cookie Duration: 60 days
Payment Method: Direct Deposit, Payoneer

10. GetYourGuide

GetYourGuide is a popular online booking platform that connects travelers with local tour guides and activities.

This platform provides travelers with a wide range of activities and tours to choose from, including sightseeing tours, adventure activities, cultural experiences, and more.

GetYourGuide’s affiliate program is a great option for travel bloggers and influencers who want to monetize their content.

The program offers a competitive commission rate and a long cookie duration, making it easy to earn money from referrals.

Here are the details of GetYourGuide’s affiliate program :

URL: GetYourGuide’s affiliate program
Commission Rate: Up to 8% commission on bookings
Cookie Duration: 31 days
Payment Method: PayPal, Wire Transfer

REI, or Recreational Equipment, Inc., is a retail company that specializes in outdoor recreation gear, clothing, and footwear.

The company was founded in 1938 and has since grown to become one of the largest outdoor retailers in the United States, with over 160 stores across the country.

REI’s best features include its wide selection of high-quality outdoor gear and clothing, as well as its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

The REI affiliate program is best suited for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, campers, and anyone interested in outdoor recreation gear and clothing.

The program is also a great fit for bloggers and content creators in the outdoor niche who want to monetize their content while promoting high-quality outdoor gear and clothing to their audience.

URL: REI Affiliate Program
Commission rate: 5%
Type: Physical product
Cookie duration: 30 days
Payment method: Direct deposit, Check
Affiliate Program: Avantlink

12. Take Walks

Take Walks is a tour company that offers unique and immersive walking tours in cities around the world.

They provide a range of tours, from food tours to historical tours, and they are known for their knowledgeable and passionate guides.

One of the best features of Take Walks is their small group sizes, which allows for a more personalized experience. They also offer skip-the-line access to popular attractions, which can save travelers a lot of time and hassle.

As a Walks affiliate, you will help spread our passion for delivering authentic, high-quality experiences to travelers around the world, while earning an attractive commission.

Here are the details of Take Walks’ affiliate program:

URL: Take Walks’ affiliate program
Commission rate: 15% per sale
Cookie duration: 45 days
Payment method: PayPal, Bank Transfer
Affiliate Network: Tapfiliate

13. InsureMyTrip

InsureMyTrip is a travel insurance comparison website that helps travelers compare and purchase travel insurance policies from different providers.

The website offers a wide range of travel insurance policies, including trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical, and more.

InsureMyTrip is best for travelers who want to compare multiple travel insurance policies and choose the one that best fits their needs.

By being a part of InsureMyTrip Affiliate Program, you can be a part of its mission to help connect every traveler with the right policy for their unique trip.

URL: InsureMyTrip Affiliate Program
Commission Rate: $10 per verified hit
Payment Method: Check, Direct Deposit, Paypal, Wire Transfer
Affiliate Network: Impact

14. TrustedHousesitters

TrustedHousesitters is a platform that connects pet owners with trusted and verified house sitters.

It is an excellent option for those who want to travel without leaving their pets behind.

Pet owners can travel with peace of mind knowing that their pets are in good hands, while house sitters get to enjoy free accommodation in exchange for taking care of the pets and home.

TrustedHousesitters’ affiliate partner program is a great opportunity for content creators and publishers to get their audiences excited about the world of vacation pet sitting.

Here are the details of TrustedHousesitters’ affiliate program:

URL: TrustedHousesitters’ affiliate program
Commission rate: Up to 40% for each membership sale

15. Hostelworld

Hostelworld is a leading online booking platform that specializes in hostels and budget accommodation properties.

With over 36,000 properties listed across 180 countries, Hostelworld is a one-stop shop for budget travelers looking for affordable and comfortable accommodation options.

Hostelworld’s user-friendly interface, extensive property listings, and competitive pricing make it a popular choice among budget-conscious travelers.

By becoming a Hostelworld Affiliate, you can earn money through your website for confirmed bookings your users make across its +36,000 properties in 179 countries

Here are the details of Hostelworld’s affiliate program :

URL: Hostelworld’s affiliate program
Commission Rate: 18-22% of the booking fee
Payment Method: PayPal, Bank Transfer

16. Safety Wings

Safety Wings is a travel insurance company that offers affordable and comprehensive insurance policies for digital nomads, travelers, and expats.

The company was founded in 2018 by a group of entrepreneurs who wanted to offer insurance coverage for people who travel frequently.

Safety Wings offers a range of insurance policies that cover medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip interruption, and more. The company’s policies are designed to be flexible and customizable, so travelers can choose the coverage that best fits their needs.

As a SafetyWing Ambassador, you earn fees as you welcome new individuals to the SafetyWing family. It’s a win-win solution, demanding no upfront costs or investments.

Here are the details of Safety Wings’ affiliate program:

URL: Safety Wings’ affiliate program
Commission Rate: 10% per policy sold
Type: CPA (Cost Per Action)
Cookie Duration: 365 days
Recurring Commissions: Yes, for a year
Payment Method: PayPal

17. Skyscanner

Skyscanner is a travel search engine that helps users find the best deals on flights, hotels, and car rentals. It is a popular platform for travelers looking to compare prices and find the best deals.

One of the best features of Skyscanner is its ability to search multiple travel providers and display the results in an easy-to-read format.

Users can quickly compare prices and find the best deals for their travel needs.

Skyscanner also offers a range of filters and sorting options to help users find exactly what they are looking for.

Skyscanner’s affiliate program is a great option for travel bloggers and website owners looking to monetize their content.

Here are some details about the program:

URL: Skyscanner’s affiliate program
Commission rate: Up to 20% of Skyscanner’s Commissions
Type: Revenue share
Payment method: Bank transfer, Checks, ACH transfer, Wire transfer, Paypal

18. Priceline

Priceline is a leading player in the travel industry that offers a wide range of services, including hotel bookings, flight reservations, car rentals, and vacation packages.

It is best for travelers who are looking for great deals on travel bookings.

Priceline’s affiliate program is a valuable opportunity for travel enthusiasts and website owners looking to monetize their platforms.

The program is ideal for those who have a travel-related website or blog, or those who have a large social media following in the travel niche.

Affiliates can promote Priceline’s services through banners, text links, and other promotional materials that are provided by the program.

Here are the details of Priceline’s affiliate program:

URL: Priceline’s affiliate program
Commission Rate: 3% – 5% per sale
Type: CPS (Cost Per Sale)
Payment Method: Check or Direct Deposit

19. Justfly

Justfly is an online travel agency that provides customers with a simple and efficient way to book flights, hotels, and rental cars.

It offers a user-friendly interface, making it easy for customers to find the best deals and prices. The platform is best for budget-conscious travelers who want to save time and money.

Justfly’s affiliate program offers a competitive commission rate of up to $9 per booking, making it an attractive option for travel bloggers and website owners.

The program is pay-per-sale, which means affiliates earn a commission for every booking made through their referral link.

Here are the details of Justfly’s affiliate program:

URL: Justfly’s affiliate program
Commission rate: Up to $9 per booking
Payment method: PayPal or check
Affiliate Network: Flex Offers

20. Cheapoair

Cheapoair is a leading online travel agency, offering affordable flights, hotels, car rentals, and vacation packages to customers worldwide.

The platform is known for its user-friendly interface, extensive search options, and competitive pricing, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.

As an affiliate, you can earn commissions by promoting Cheapoair on your website, blog, or social media channels. The program provides you with a range of marketing materials, including banners, text links, and widgets, to help you promote their services effectively.

The commission rate varies depending on the type of booking and the amount of the sale. The program also offers bonuses and incentives for top-performing affiliates.

Here are the details of the Cheapoair affiliate program:

URL: Cheapoair affiliate program
Commission rate: You can earn up to $25 per flight booking, $12 per hotel booking, and $5 per car rental booking.
Cookie duration: 90 days
Payment method: PayPal, Check, Wire Transfer
Affiliate Network: Rakuten. Impact, Awin, CJ Affiliates

21. Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates is an affiliate program that allows individuals to earn a commission by promoting Amazon products. It is one of the largest and most popular affiliate programs available, with a wide range of products to choose from.

One of the best features of Amazon Associates is the vast selection of products available for promotion. With millions of products available on Amazon, there is something for everyone.

Amazon Associates is best for individuals or businesses with a wide range of interests or niches, as there are products available in almost every category.

It is also a great option for those just starting in affiliate marketing, as it is easy to sign up and get started.

Here is a breakdown of the key details for the Amazon Associates affiliate program:

URL: Amazon Associates affiliate program
Commission rate: Varies by product category, but can range from 1% to 10%.
Type: Product-based affiliate program.
Cookie duration: 24 hours.
Payment method: Direct deposit, Amazon gift card, check

22. CitysightsNY

CitysightsNY is a sightseeing company that offers tours and attractions in New York City.

They provide hop-on, hop-off double-decker bus tours, sightseeing cruises, helicopter tours, and more. CitysightsNY is best for tourists who want to explore the city and see its famous landmarks.

By joining CitysightsNY’s affiliate program, affiliates can earn a commission per sale.

The program is ideal for travel bloggers, tour operators, and anyone else who wants to promote CitysightsNY’s tours and attractions to their audience.

Here are the details of CitysightsNY’s affiliate program:

URL: CitysightsNY’s affiliate program
Commission Rate: 10% – 15% per sale
Cookie Duration: 45 days
Payment Method: PayPal, Wire Transfer, Bank Deposit, Check

23. Discovercars.com

Discovercars.com is an online car rental comparison platform, which offers its users a chance to compare car rental prices from various car rental companies.

The platform has a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for users to search for a car rental that suits their needs. Discovercars.com has a wide range of car rental options that include economy cars, luxury cars, SUVs, and vans.

Discovercars.com is best for those who are looking for affordable car rentals and want to compare prices from different car rental companies.

Here are the details of Discovercars.com’s affiliate program:

URL: Discovercars.com’s affiliate program
Commission Rate: Up to $20 per booking/ 70% commission of Discovercars.com profit for car rental and a 30% commission on Full Coverage
Payment Method: PayPal, Bank transfer, Wire Transfer
Affiliate Network: CJ Affiliates, Admitad, TravelPayouts, ShareASale

24. Go City

Go City is a travel company that offers all-inclusive attraction passes for various cities around the world. With Go City, travelers can save up to 55% on attraction admission prices and skip the lines at popular tourist destinations.

One of the best features of Go City is the flexibility it offers.

Travelers can choose from a variety of attraction passes, including all-inclusive passes, explorer passes, and build-your-own passes.

Go City is best for travelers who want to see multiple attractions in a city and save money while doing so.

With Go City, affiliates receive up to 6% commission on all the sales of entrance tickets to various museums, tours, and attractions in the United States, Great Britain, Australia, Mexico, the United Arab Emirates, Hawaii, China, and Mexico.

URL: Go City Affiliate Program Details
Commission Rate: Up to 6%
Cookie Duration: 90 days
Affiliate Network: Partnerize

25. Cruise Direct

Cruise Direct is a leading online cruise travel company that offers a wide range of cruise options for travelers. The platform provides a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for travelers to search and book their preferred cruise destinations.

Cruise Direct offers a variety of features that make it stand out from other online travel agencies.

Cruise Direct is best for travelers who are looking for affordable and accessible cruise options. The platform caters to a wide range of travelers, including families, couples, solo travelers, and groups.

Join the CruiseDirect Affiliate Program now to make money marketing one of the fastest-growing segments on the web.

Here are some of the features of the Cruise Direct affiliate program:

URL : Cruise Direct affiliate program
Commission rate : 3%
Type : Cost per sale
Cookie duration : 45 days
Recurring commissions : No
Payment method : Check, Direct Deposit, PayPal
Audience : CJ Affiliates

26. Plum Guide

Plum Guide is a travel booking platform that offers a curated selection of vacation rentals in various locations around the world.

The platform prides itself on providing high-quality and unique accommodations that have been carefully vetted by its team of experts. Plum Guide’s best features include a personalized concierge service, 24/7 support, and a secure booking process.

Plum Guide is best for travelers who are looking for a unique and personalized vacation experience.

Anyone can become a Plum Guide affiliate, although your site must be reputable and they reserve the right to decline any application that they feel is unsuitable

Here are the details of Plum Guide’s affiliate program:

URL: Plum Guide’s affiliate program
Commission rate: 7% commission

27. Lonely Planet

Lonely Planet is a well-known brand in the travel industry, offering a wide range of travel guides, books, and maps to help travelers plan their trips.

With over 500 travel guides covering destinations all around the world, Lonely Planet is an excellent resource for anyone looking to explore new places.

Anyone with a travel-related website, podcast, or social media account can apply to become a Lonely Planet Affiliate.

Your customers can benefit from your affiliation with Lonely Planet by receiving a 10% discount on their purchases made through your referral links.

Here are some key details about the Lonely Planet affiliate program:

URL: Lonely Planet affiliate program
Commission Rate: 15% per sale
Type: Physical Products
Payment Method: PayPal, Bank Transfer, Checks
Affiliate Network: UpPromote

Wego is a travel search engine that allows users to compare and book flights, hotels, and activities across various travel providers.

It covers more than 190 countries and 50 currencies, making it a great tool for travelers worldwide.

Wego’s best features include its user-friendly interface, which allows users to easily search and filter results based on their preferences. It also offers a price alert feature, which notifies users when prices for their desired travel itinerary change.

If you’re looking to promote Wego as an affiliate, they offer a competitive commission rate.

Here are some additional details about Wego’s affiliate program:

Affiliate Program URL: Wego Affiliate Program
Commission Rate: 3% per hotel booking
Affiliate Network: Admitad

Hertz is a car rental company that provides rental services for cars, trucks, and vans. It is a well-known brand with a global presence and has a reputation for providing quality service to its customers.

Hertz is best for people who need a reliable and affordable rental car for personal or business use.

If you are interested in becoming an affiliate of Hertz, you can join their affiliate program and earn commissions by promoting their services.

Here are some details about their affiliate program:

URL: Hertz Affiliate Program
Commission Rate: 3% per sale
Affiliate Network : CJ Affiliates

30. RentalCars.com

RentalCars.com is a major online car rental agency that provides services for over four million customers yearly in more than 46,000 locations worldwide.

It offers car rental options from big names like Avis, Enterprise, Hertz, and Thrifty, as well as small local brands. This affiliate program is quite popular and has the biggest rental car comparison website.

RentalCars.com is best for travel bloggers, online travel agencies, and websites that offer car rental services. It is also suitable for those who want to monetize their travel-related websites or blogs.

URL: RentalCars.com Affiliate Program
Commission Rate: 6% per sale
Affiliate Network: CJ Affiliate

31. Enterprise

Enterprise is a well-known car rental company that operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The company has a fleet of over 2 million vehicles, ranging from economy cars to luxury vehicles.

Enterprise is known for its excellent customer service, affordable rates, and convenient locations.

Enterprise’s affiliate program is an excellent opportunity for travel bloggers or websites that focus on car rentals.

The program is open to all types of websites, including travel blogs, car rental websites, and travel booking websites.

Here are some key details about Enterprise’s affiliate program:

URL: Enterprise’s affiliate program
Commission rate: 2.5%
Cookie duration: 180 days
Payment method: Check, Paypal, Wire transfer, direct deposit

Budget is a well-known car rental company that offers affordable rates for travelers looking to rent a car.

They have a wide range of vehicles available, from economy cars to SUVs, making it easy to find the perfect car for your trip.

Budget’s affiliate program is a great opportunity for travel bloggers and influencers to earn commissions on car rental bookings.

Here are the details of their affiliate program:

URL: Budget’s affiliate program
Commission rate: Up to 4% on completed rentals
Cookie duration: N/A
Payment method: Paypal, Direct deposit, check

33. Outdoorsy

Outdoorsy is a platform that connects RV owners with people who want to rent an RV for their next adventure. It’s an excellent option for anyone who wants to travel in comfort and style without having to invest in an RV of their own.

Outdoorsy offers a wide variety of RVs to choose from, including Class A, Class B, and Class C motorhomes, travel trailers, and more.

One of the best features of Outdoorsy is its user-friendly platform. It’s easy to search for RVs based on location, date, and type of RV. The platform also offers a secure payment system, so renters can feel confident that their transactions are safe and secure.

Through the Outdoorsy Affiliate Program, you refer RV owners and renters, while earning lucrative commissions for every referral!

URL: Outdoorsy Affiliate Program
Commission Rate: $60 or more per booking
Type: RV rental affiliate program
Payment Method: PayPal, Bank Transfer, Wire Transfer, ACH Transfer
Affiliate Network: AvantLink, CJ Affiliates, HasOffers

34. RVshare

RVshare is a dynamic rental marketplace that connects RV owners with RV renters for tailgates, vacations, or convenient temporary lodging needs.

The brand was co-founded in the USA by Mark and Rachel in 2012, with a mission to promote RV camping and trips across the US.

RVshare’s website is easy to navigate, with a user-friendly interface that allows customers to search for RVs by location, type, and dates. Customers can also read reviews from previous renters and compare prices to find the best deal.

One of the best features of the RVshare Affiliate program is that affiliates can earn commission in two ways: from RV rentals and also for every new RV listing.

Here is a list of RVshare’s affiliate program details:

URL: RVshare’s affiliate program
Commission Rate: 4% commission of the total booking value for every RV rental & $7 commission for every new RV listing.
Type: Pay Per Sale
Payment Method: PayPal, Bank Transfer, Checks, Wire Transfer
Affiliate Program: CJ Affiliates

35. Accor Hotels

Accor Hotels is a multinational hospitality company that owns and operates over 4,800 hotels, resorts, and residences in 100 countries.

The company’s portfolio includes a wide range of brands, from luxury to economy, such as Sofitel, Pullman, Novotel, Mercure, Ibis, and more. Accor Hotels prides itself on providing exceptional service, innovative design, and sustainable practices to its guests.

Accor Hotels’ affiliate program allows partners to earn commissions by promoting the company’s hotels and services on their websites or social media channels.

Here are the details of the program:

URL : Accor Hotels’ affiliate program
Commission Rate : Up to 15% on completed stays
Type : Pay-per-sale
Cookie Duration : 30 days
Recurring Commissions : No
Payment Method : Bank transfer, Check, Wire Transfer, PayPal
Affiliate Network: Kwanko, CJ Affiliate

36. IHG Hotels and Resorts

IHG Hotels and Resorts is a multinational hospitality company that operates a wide range of hotel brands, including InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, and more.

IHG Hotels and Resorts offers a variety of features that make it a great choice for travelers of all types.

Their properties range from budget-friendly to luxury, and their loyalty program, IHG Rewards Club, allows members to earn and redeem points for free nights, merchandise, and more.

IHG Hotels and Resorts’ affiliate program offers a competitive commission rate and a long cookie duration, making it an attractive option for travel bloggers and other affiliates.

Here are the program’s key details:

URL: IHG Hotels and Resorts’ affiliate program
Commission rate: 3% on hotel bookings
Type: CPS (Cost per Sale)

37. Homeexchange.com

Homeexchange.com is an online platform that allows travelers to exchange homes with other travelers around the world.

Homeexchange.com has been around for over 25 years and has a network of over 400,000 homes in 187 countries.

Homeexchange.com has several features that make it stand out from other home exchange platforms. One of the best features is the 24/7 support provided to members. It also has a verification process for members, which adds an extra layer of security.

As a Homeexchange affiliate, you will be commissioned on three specific actions taken on the platform: account creation, home completion to 80%, and yearly membership taken.

Homeexchange is currently accepting influencers and publishers who drive traffic from the US and Canada.

Affiliate Program URL: Homeexchange.com Affiliate Program
Commission rate: Affiliates will receive $5 for every member who signs up, $10 for every member who completes their home listing, and $15 for every member who takes the yearly membership.
Recurring commissions: Yes
Affiliate Network : Affilae

38. FareHarbor

FareHarbor is a booking and management software designed for tour and activity operators. It is a cloud-based platform that helps businesses manage their bookings, payments, and customer information.

FareHarbor’s user-friendly interface, customizable booking pages, and real-time availability updates make it an excellent choice for small to medium-sized tour and activity operators.

FareHarbor has its affiliate network — the FareHarbor Distribution Network (FHDN).

It directly connects 30,000 guided tours, outdoor activities, and other experience providers with affiliates like you – with no middleman to share a commission with.

Affiliate Program URL: Fareharbor Affiliate Program
Commission rate: 15% per transaction
Cookie duration: Not Listed
Affiliate Network: The FareHarbor Distribution Network (FHDN)

Klook is a travel booking platform that offers a wide range of activities, tours, and attractions in various destinations around the world. The platform aims to provide travelers with a seamless and convenient way to plan and book their travel experiences.

One of the best features of Klook is its user-friendly interface, which allows users to easily search and book activities based on their preferences and interests.

The platform also offers competitive prices and exclusive deals, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.

Klook’s affiliate program allows partners to earn commissions by promoting the platform’s products and services.

URL: Klook’s affiliate program
Commission Rate: 2% – 5% commission on every completed booking
Payment Method: Direct Bank Transfer

40. Contiki

Contiki is a travel company that specializes in tours for 18-35-year-olds. They offer guided tours to various destinations around the world, including Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.

Contiki’s best features include their knowledgeable tour guides, unique itineraries, and focus on creating a fun and social atmosphere for their travelers.

They also offer a variety of tour styles to cater to different travel preferences, including camping, sailing, and winter tours.

If you are interested in promoting Contiki as an affiliate, their dedicated affiliate management team is available to help you maximize your potential as an affiliate partner and troubleshoot any problems along the way

Here are some important details to know:

URL: Contiki Affiliate Program
Commission rate: 5% commission on all sales
Payment method: PayPal, Bank Transfer, Check, Wire Transfer

41. CityPASS

CityPASS is a company that provides discounted admission to some of the most popular tourist attractions in major cities across North America. With CityPASS, travelers can save up to 50% on admission fees to attractions like museums, zoos, and theme parks.

CityPASS is an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers who want to make the most of their time in a new city without breaking the bank.

The company’s best feature is its ability to bundle multiple attractions together at a discounted rate, making it easy to plan a fun-filled itinerary without overspending.

Joining CityPASS Affiliate Program is a good way to generate income while being of help to your audience.

Here are the details of CityPASS’s affiliate program:

URL: CityPASS Affiliate program
Commission rate: 1%-6%
Payment method: Check or direct deposit

42. Priority Pass

Priority Pass is a membership program that offers access to more than 1300 airport lounges worldwide.

The program is designed for frequent travelers who want to enjoy the comfort and convenience of airport lounges without being a member of any airline loyalty program.

With Priority Pass, members can enjoy free food and drinks, comfortable seating, high-speed Wi-Fi, and other amenities.

If you have a website you could join the Priority Pass Affiliate program and earn great commission for every sale you make.

URL: Priority Pass Affiliate Program
Commission rate: 10% on all sales
Payment method: Check, PayPal, bank transfer
Affiliate Network: Awin

43. Wise (formerly Transferwise)

Wise is a money transfer service that allows individuals and businesses to send and receive money across borders with low fees and a transparent exchange rate.

The platform is available in over 70 countries and supports over 50 currencies. Wise is best for individuals and businesses that need to make international money transfers frequently.

By becoming Wise’s affiliate partner, you will be earning revenue by recommending a cheaper way to send, spend, and receive money internationally.

Here are the details of Wise’s affiliate program:

URL: Wise’s affiliate program
Commission rate: £10 for personal users and £50 for business customers
Type: CPA (Cost Per Acquisition)
Cookie duration: One year
Payment method: Bank transfer

Omio is a travel booking platform that enables users to search and book various modes of transportation, including trains, buses, and flights, across Europe.

The platform is designed to make travel planning easier and more convenient for users, offering them a one-stop shop for all their travel needs.

The platform also offers real-time updates on travel schedules and prices, ensuring that users have access to the most up-to-date information.

Omio’s affiliate program is a great way for travel bloggers and influencers to monetize their content.

Here are some key details about Omio’s affiliate program:

URL: Omio’s affiliate program
Commission rate: Up to 8% of total order sale
Payment method: PayPal, Bank Transfer, Direct Deposit, Wire Transfer, ACH Transfer

45. Ferryhopper

Ferryhopper is a ferry booking platform that allows users to book ferry tickets to various destinations in Greece and Italy. The platform is best for travelers who want to explore the beautiful Greek islands and other destinations in the Mediterranean.

Ferryhopper has several features that make it stand out from other ferry booking platforms. It offers a user-friendly interface that allows users to easily search for and book ferry tickets.

Ferryhopper’s affiliate program is open to all types of affiliates, including bloggers, travel agents, and website owners.

Here are the details of Ferryhopper’s affiliate program:

URL: Ferryhopper’s affiliate program
Commission rate: 1% gross booking value
Type: Ferry booking platform
Recurring commissions: Yes, for up to one year
Payment method: PayPal or bank transfer
Audience: Travelers interested in exploring the Greek islands and other destinations in the Mediterranean

46. VisitorsCoverage

VisitorsCoverage is a travel insurance provider that offers a range of insurance plans for international travelers.

The company has been in business for over 14 years and has served over 2 million travelers. VisitorsCoverage is known for its excellent customer service and easy-to-use online platform.

VisitorsCoverage offers a range of insurance plans for different types of travelers, including international students, business travelers, and tourists.

As a VisitorsCoverage affiliate, you can offer your audience top-rated insurance products from an award-winning travel insurance company that will protect them on their travels, while still earning commissions from it.

Here are the details of VisitorsCoverage’s affiliate program:

URL: VisitorsCoverage’s affiliate program
Commission Rate: $2-$300
Payment Method: PayPal, Wire transfer, ACH Transfer, Direct Deposit, Check

Tiqets is a travel booking platform that provides access to tickets for museums, attractions, and activities in various cities around the world.

The platform has a user-friendly interface that allows users to book tickets easily and quickly. Tiqets is best for travelers who want to explore different cities and experience their culture and history.

The Tiqets Affiliate Program allows you to provide your customers with access to culture in any major city around the world.

As a partner, you use one of our solutions to showcase products to your customers and, in return, you earn a commission on each booking made by them.

Here are the details of the Tiqets affiliate program:

URL: Tiqets affiliate program
Commission rate: 4%-6%
Type: Cost per sale
Payment method: PayPal, Bank Transfer, Check, Direct Deposit, ACH Transfer

48. Insubuy

Insubuy is a travel insurance provider that offers a wide range of insurance plans for travelers. It specializes in providing insurance plans for international travelers who are visiting the United States.

Insubuy has been in business for over 20 years and has a great reputation in the industry.

Insubuy’s best features include the ability to compare and purchase insurance plans online, 24/7 customer service, and the ability to customize insurance plans to fit the needs of each traveler.

Insubuy’s affiliate program allows affiliates to earn a commission on every sale that they refer to Insubuy.

Insubuy’s affiliate program Details:

URL: Insubuy’s affiliate program
Commission rate: $1.5 – $300
Payment method: PayPal.
Recurring Commission : No
Payment Method : Paypal, Check, Direct Deposit, Wire Transfer, ACH Transfer

49. Trivago

Trivago is a hotel search engine that enables users to compare hotel prices from various booking sites.

It is an excellent tool for travelers who want to find the best deals on hotels. Trivago has a user-friendly interface that allows users to filter their searches by price, location, and amenities.

Trivago Affiliate Program is available to publishers, bloggers, and website owners who want to earn money by promoting Trivago.

Here are some key details about the Trivago Affiliate Program:

URL: Trivago Affiliate Program
Commission Rate: Up to 40% revenue share
Type: Digital Service
Payment Method: PayPal or Bank Transfer
Audience: Travel bloggers, website owners, and publishers

50. EconomyBookings

EconomyBookings is a car rental service that offers affordable and reliable car rentals in over 150 countries worldwide. They provide a user-friendly platform that allows customers to easily search and compare car rental prices from top car rental companies.

One of the best features of EconomyBookings is their 24/7 customer service support. Customers can contact them via phone or email at any time of the day, and they will be assisted by a friendly and knowledgeable representative.

In addition, EconomyBookings offers a wide range of vehicles to choose from, including economy, compact, mid-size, full-size, SUVs, and luxury cars.

If you are interested in promoting EconomyBookings as an affiliate, here are the details of their affiliate program:

URL: EconomyBookings Affiliate Program
Commission Rate: Up to 60% of the advertiser’s revenue on every booking.
Type: Cost per Sale
Payment Method: PayPal, Bank Transfer, Check, Direct Deposit, Wire Transfer
Affiliate Network: TravelPayouts

Busbud is a travel website that offers travelers a convenient way to book bus tickets across different countries.

The platform is known for its user-friendly interface, making it easy to search and compare bus schedules, prices, and amenities.

With Busbud, travelers can book bus tickets for popular routes like New York to Boston, Los Angeles to Las Vegas, and Toronto to Montreal.

One of the best features of Busbud is its extensive network of bus operators. The platform partners with over 3,000 bus companies worldwide, giving travelers access to a wide range of routes and schedules.

Here are some key details about Busbud’s affiliate program:

URL: Busbud’s affiliate program
Commission Rate: 5%
Type: Pay-Per-Sale

FAQs on Travel Affiliate Programs

What are the top travel affiliate programs for bloggers in 2024.

There are several travel affiliate programs that bloggers can consider in 2024, including Expedia, Booking.com, TripAdvisor, and Agoda. These programs offer a wide range of travel-related products and services, including flights, hotels, vacation rentals, and tours.

Which travel affiliate programs offer the highest payouts this year?

The commission rates for travel affiliate programs can vary widely, but some of the highest-paying programs in 2024 include TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and EconomyBookings.

How can beginners effectively leverage travel affiliate programs in 2024?

It’s important to focus on building a targeted audience and creating high-quality content that resonates with that audience. It’s also important to choose affiliate programs that align with your niche and interests and to be transparent with your audience about your affiliate relationships.

Are there any travel affiliate programs that are particularly well-suited for Instagram influencers?

Instagram influencers can consider partnering with travel affiliate programs like Viator which offer a range of travel-related products and experiences that are well-suited for social media promotion.

My mission is to equip and arm you with the precise marketing tools, resources, strategies, and tactics to help you make IMPACT, SERVE more and (of course) EXPLODE your income so you can live life on your own terms.

18 Best Travel Affiliate Programs In 2024 Reviewed

best travel affiliate programs cover image

The travel industry is a highly profitable affiliate niche, with the potential for significant commission payouts for promoting vacation packages, flights, and hotels. Even a single-digit commission rate can be worth hundreds of dollars per sale.

However, it’s also one of the most competitive niches out there, and navigating it successfully requires knowledge of the best practices and networks to use. We’d be happy to share the travel affiliate programs that have yielded significant benefits for us.

We’ll also give you an introduction to the niche and teach you about some of the top networks our Affiliate Lab members love and the best affiliate programs for a range of sub-niches, including general travel, airlines, hotels, and tours.

You’ll also see some of the best affiliates for insurance and travel accessories.

Table Of Contents

1. ShareASale (Editor’s Choice)

2. Travelpayouts

3. cj affiliate, 4. tripadvisor, 6. skyscanner, 8. booking.com, 9. agoda affiliate program, 10. g adventures, 12. world nomads, 13. safetywing, 14. boatbookings, 15. sandals resorts, 17. osprey.com, 18. amazon associates, affiliate marketing and the travel niche, how to find the best travel affiliate products, understanding the customer buying cycle, affiliate program vs. affiliate network: what’s the difference, start making profits in travel niche, the best travel affiliate programs (general).

General travel affiliate programs are a great starting point if your travel affiliate marketing site is focused on travel in a general way. You’ll be able to find many different programs to match the topics on your site. You can also network with other affiliate marketers.

The networks below have some of the best affiliate programs, and they cover a variety of different products that may appeal to readers of a travel blogger or social media page.

1. ShareASale ( Editor’s Choice )

ShareASale is a network that has been around for more than 20 years. It’s one of the world’s largest and hosts some of the best travel affiliate programs. You can partner with more than 15,000 merchants, including travel brands like Viator, Cotopaxi, Eastern Mountain Sports, and RoamRight.

Affiliates are provided with access to a custom affiliate link tool, as well as automated reports to track performance.

Travelpayouts is a travel affiliate network with nearly 100 different programs from brands like Expedia, Hilton, and Tripadvisor.

It is a favorite of travel bloggers because it’s a one-stop shop for all kinds of travel-specific offers like vacation packages, hotel bookings, car rentals and flight bookings.

It has processed more than $20 million in payouts since it was first launched. Affiliates have access to tools, including widgets and WordPress plugins. Support services are available in more than 60 languages.

CJ Affiliate Network (Commission Junction)

CJ Affiliate is one of the world’s largest affiliate marketing networks. It hosts hundreds of travel affiliate programs, including major global brands like Expedia.

The network pays out more than $1.5 billion in commissions every year to travel bloggers, deals websites, and other major players.

Affiliates are supported by custom APIs and comprehensive analytics data. They also have access to thousands of other offers in related niches.

TripAdvisor is the world’s largest travel site with more than a million bookable destinations. The TripAdvisor affiliate program allows you to promote their rooms and claim a 50% commission of the brokerage fee that TripAdvisor gets from their hotel partners.

You can even get a flat commission based on the number of clicks sent to TripAdvisor. Affiliate marketing publishers who send fewer than 1000 clicks per month are earning $550/mo affiliate income. TripAdvisor affiliate program is available on both CJ Affiliate and AWIN.

Expedia is a massive travel network that includes the brands Hotels.com, Vrbo, Orbitz, and Travelocity. As an affiliate marketing partner, you can collect commissions for each booking completed on these sites.

The program is currently hosted on the affiliate network, Flexoffers. Affiliate website owners who qualify can customize their affiliate links, and use booking widgets, and custom search APIs.

Best Airline Affiliate Programs

Airline affiliate programs can be a great way to monetize a general travel blog or an affiliate marketing site that is focused on a specific remote destination.

These referral programs can be easily combined with other popular affiliate programs based on activity booking or accessories.

Skyscanner is a global travel website that allows users to compare prices for flights, car hire services, and hotels. As part of the travel affiliate program, travel bloggers can collect a commission off of each booking that is made through their travel sites.

Affiliates are provided with travel search widgets, banners, and customizable affiliate links to drive users to the Skyscanner site. Travel websites, blogs, social media groups, deals websites, and other types of sites are allowed to apply.

Kayak is a travel search engine that promises users the best prices on travel by showing them offers from hundreds of hotel, flight, and car rental sites in one place.

It’s a massive service with more than 200,000,000 searches per month. It also serves a global audience with support for more than 20 languages.

If you join this affiliate program, you’ll be supported with banners and affiliate links that can be targeted to specific destinations.

Best Hotel Affiliate Programs

Hotel affiliate programs are a great way to monetize sites focused on specific destinations.

For example, you can focus on a particular area, such as the Florida Keys or the Mediterranean. You can even focus your site on a specific hotel or resort.

Booking.com is a major travel booking site that manages more than 1.5 million room reservations per day. As part of this travel affiliate program, travel bloggers can collect commissions by convincing users to book rooms, vacation rentals, and cabins for trains and ships.

Will Hatton of The Broke Backpacker travel blog[ 2 ] had this to say about the program:

“For accommodation, booking.com is the best affiliate program to push; it just converts better than other platforms.”

If you join the Booking.com affiliate program, you get access to a partner portal that provides free tracking and performance analysis tools.

Agoda is a vacation rental site that allows users to book anything from hotels to resort homes and private villas. Nearly a million properties are available for booking on the site. Everything from New York 5-star hotels to Cancun resorts is represented.

As part of their referral program, you can collect commissions for booking any of these rentals. Approved affiliates have access to insider data files for each hotel, as well as search box widgets and custom banners.

Best Travel Tours Affiliate Programs

Travel tour affiliate programs are some of the most lucrative travel affiliate programs. Booking tours usually involve multiple accommodations, services, or activities over several days. Large transactions can mean a substantial commission for you.

G Adventures is a travel tour site that allows users to book adventures with small groups. Adventures with full itineraries are available in places from Istanbul to Iceland. Affiliates can collect commissions for directing users toward 2-4 day packages.

The program is managed by the Commission Junction network. If you join this travel affiliate program, you’ll be supported by all the tools available on that network, including tracking and real-time reporting apps.

Viator is an activities-booking site for attractions all over the world. Users can sign up for full packages based on exploring world-class cities like New York or wonders like Chichen Itza.

Activities include sightseeing tours, tickets for cultural attractions, and activities like snorkeling and parasailing.

Affiliates are supported with a self-service dashboard where they can view reports, assess performance, and track incoming payments.

Best Travel Insurance Affiliate Programs

Travel insurance affiliate programs give you the chance to get paid for directing your users to sign up for insurance.

These programs can work effectively on any kind of travel blog. Due to the relatively low cost of the product, it can be easy to convince visitors to add insurance to other kinds of orders.

World Nomads is a travel insurance site that serves independent travelers in more than 130 countries. Users can get coverage for their gear, 24/7 emergency medical or dental assistance, and unplanned return flights.

Affiliates can promote insurance plans across the world. If you join this affiliate program, you’ll be supported by a global support team with bases in the UK, Australia, Brazil, and the US.

SafetyWing provides global medical insurance for digital nomads and other types of long-term travelers. Unlike many other types of travel insurance, it operates on a subscription model so that travelers can remain covered for months or even years at a time.

As a partner in this affiliate program, you can collect commissions for promoting nomad insurance or remote health subscriptions. In either case, you can collect 10% commissions and track sales with a personal dashboard.

Best Luxury Travel Affiliate Programs

These programs are highly competitive, but they offer you the chance to fight for orders that have the highest average transactions in the travel industry. Booking premium accommodations or services can guarantee that any commission applies to a huge order.

Boatbookings is a luxury travel site that allows users to book some of the most luxurious boats in the world, including crewed yachts, catamarans, and even modern superyachts. Affiliates are rewarded with a commission for each successful booking that comes from their traffic.

Affiliates receive a starting 20% of brokerage fees from this affiliate program. Booking transactions can easily reach tens of thousands of dollars (the cheapest crewed yachts start at around $20,000 a week).

Sandals Resorts is an affiliate program that covers multiple 5-star resorts located throughout the Caribbean. The resorts are located in Jamaica, the Bahamas, Antigua, Barbados, and other highly popular destination islands.

Affiliates can promote bookings at all of these locations, as well as extras like butler services, golf courses, and wedding amenities. The program is hosted on the large CJ Affiliate network.

Best Outdoor & Travel Accessory Affiliate Programs

Outdoor accessory affiliate programs are popular with affiliates because they can be matched with other types of travel affiliate programs already active on your travel blog.

For example, If you’re promoting flights, you can promote travel pillows. If you’re promoting hikes, you can promote hydration packs. It’s easy to slide the affiliate links into any related content.

REI is a major retailer and an affiliate program with a massive stock of outdoor gear and supplies for hiking, snowboarding, skiing, and other sports. Through the affiliate program, you can collect commissions on the sale of any of these goods.

Will Hatton of The Broke Backpacker is a fan of the high commissions. He says:

“For hiking and travel gear—a click to REI is worth three clicks to Amazon.”

The affiliate program is managed through AvantLink. Affiliates can use the tools of this network to manage their campaign and to track clicks and commissions.

Osprey is an outdoor brand that specializes in performance backpacks and also offers an affiliate program. Affiliates can promote a wide variety of different daypacks, hydration accessories, wheeled travel luggage, ski packs, and organizational accessories.

The Osprey affiliate program is managed through AvantLink. This network provides a range of support services for affiliates, including tracking and reporting tools.

Amazon Associates affiliate program is the largest retail affiliate program in the world. While it’s not often listed among best travel affiliate programs, it belongs here because it’s one of the world’s biggest sources for travel products.

As an associate, you can promote nearly every product Amazon carries, including an unmatched stock of travel accessories.

The site sells thousands of backpacks, secure wallets, travel comfort items, and more.

Affiliate marketers are supported with some customizable affiliate links, banners, and API tools that allow you to integrate product displays directly into your website.

The travel niche is a lot bigger than it might appear at first sight. It doesn’t only deal with travel itself (though we will cover some networks and referral programs that deal with that specifically), but also accommodations, activities, and accessories.

The affiliate marketers that populate this niche include everyone from travel bloggers to extreme sports enthusiasts who write about their favorite destinations.

One of the great things about the travel niche is that you can layer many different offers into the same site or content .

For example, if someone wants to travel somewhere, they’ll need somewhere to stay when they get there. They’ll also want some things to do. If you’re clever, you can help them do all of these things from your site with a gentle sprinkling of affiliate links.

No matter what you choose to base your site around, you need to know where to start when looking for a good affiliate program. Let’s look at how to find the best products for travel-based affiliate marketing.

If you want to find the best products, start with the best merchants and networks. The resources offered by high-quality travel programs can help you get on your feet faster. You should ask yourself:

Good support can take a significant amount of work out of your hands, including:

Beyond that, succeeding in any niche requires a certain degree of knowledge and enthusiasm. Many travel bloggers succeed because their excitement is infectious . People want more than the sights—they want the joy and wonder the travel blogs are communicating.

Selling takes more than just communicating, though. That’s why you need to understand the buyer cycle if you want to work with travel programs.

Understanding the customer buying cycle is an important part of surviving and thriving in the travel niche and finding the most suitable affiliate program for you. Travel is expensive, so buyers are warier of paying for bad deals or working with untrustworthy partners.

Part of how you overcome that hesitation is by making sure that you’re meeting the needs of your visitors at every stage.

We prefer the AIDA model. We covered this in detail in this helpful video .

This model is decades old, but it translates well to online affiliate marketing. Using AIDA, you can target different keywords with different search intent to create a marketing funnel .

For example, commercial intent keywords (e.g. “best X for Y”, product comparisons, product reviews) usually target people in the desire/action stage. These terms might have less traffic, but they will convert more often. For that reason, you can expect them to be more competitive

On the other hand, “early research” type keywords (for the attention/interest stages) often have high traffic, but less buyer intent.

Keep this in mind as you’re building out your site, and your content strategy. For now, let’s explore the difference between programs and networks before jumping into the best ones.

The difference is that an affiliate program is a business arrangement where a company pays commissions to affiliates for referring customers, whereas an affiliate network is a platform that connects multiple affiliate programs and affiliates, acting as an intermediary between the two.

But they are very closely related.

An affiliate/referral program is an arrangement that exists between an affiliate and a merchant for a product or family of products. Merchants may operate one or several referral programs depending on their needs.

affiliate program arrangement between merchant and affiliates

An affiliate network is a type of platform that allows merchants and affiliates to coordinate on offers. It offers useful tools to both parties, such as dashboards, search engines, and ratings of other merchants and affiliate marketers on the network.

Affiliate Network offer tools dashboard and offers

Affiliate networks typically feature thousands of referral programs from hundreds of different merchants, though they may choose to focus on specific niches.

Merchants like working with networks because it gives them access to a large base of affiliates. They also like how they don’t have to manage the work of setting up contracts or handling the technical side of creating affiliate links.

Affiliate marketers like working with networks because they can choose from many different offers for an affiliate program and manage them from one dashboard.

Networks often claim a small share of the payments that affiliates collect. This may seem like a downside, but many top-tier travel affiliate offers are exclusive to the best affiliate programs . If you want to sell certain products, you’ll need to be approved on a network first. It’s best if you already have experience with travel blogs.

The travel industry offers numerous opportunities for commission payouts for different travel packages and hotels. Finding a good travel affiliate program can be challenging if you do not have much experience. Still, ShareASale is a profitable and reliable network that has been in the business for decades.

It offers over 15,000 travel merchants with high commission rates, and it allows you to earn on everything, from vacation rentals to tourist tickets and flights.

Although the travel industry is quite competitive, ShareASale has some of the best offers and will help you profit highly from every sale. For that reason, I would recommend you to stop wasting your time and sign up for ShareASale today.

Our #1 Recommendation: ShareASale

Matt Diggity

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We’ve Tried The Best Travel Affiliate Programs For 2024

Table of contents

Helpful summary

Overview: We've evaluated the best travel affiliate programs for 2024, focusing on their unique offerings, commission structures, and benefits to affiliate marketers in the travel industry.

Why you can trust us: Our insights are based on our extensive experience and collaborations with major clients, providing us with a profound understanding of the travel affiliate market. We bring real-world case studies and success stories to the table, ensuring our recommendations are both practical and effective.

Why this is important: Travel affiliate programs are a key tool for monetizing digital platforms, offering lucrative opportunities for marketers in the expansive and dynamic travel industry.

Action points: We recommend that marketers carefully evaluate these travel affiliate programs, considering factors like commission rates, cookie duration, product relevance, and the reputation of the program.

Further research: To complement our guide, delve into each program's specifics, explore market trends in travel affiliate marketing, and engage with existing affiliates for firsthand insights and experiences.

Want To Find The Best Travel Affiliate Programs?

In a time where the love for travel drives people to explore every corner of the world, the travel industry is a thriving hub of endless opportunities. Travel programs have become popular in the world of affiliate marketing, attracting both entrepreneurs and digital enthusiasts.

With the global travel industry growing each year, affiliate marketers are at the forefront of a dynamic and expanding market.

In this Strackr article, we’ll take you on a trip to the best travel affiliate programs that not only offer revenue, but also open up possibilities for marketers looking to establish themselves in this dynamic field.

Let’s dive in!

Why Listen To Us?

Our partnership with Adclick and Joko has given us a firsthand look at the challenges and opportunities within travel affiliate marketing. Our successes with these clients, from optimizing affiliate strategies to enhancing program selection, provide us with unique insights, ensuring that our recommendations are grounded in real-world effectiveness and tailored for optimal results in the travel sector.

What are Travel Affiliate Programs?

Travel affiliate programs are collaborative programs between travel companies and affiliate marketers. These programs provide a unique opportunity for digital enthusiasts and entrepreneurs to earn commissions by promoting travel-related products and services.

At its core, the concept is simple–affiliate marketers partner with travel companies to promote their offerings, such as hotel bookings, flights, tours, or travel accessories. Affiliates then earn a commission for every successful sale or lead generated through their promotional efforts.

The mechanics of travel affiliate programs typically involve the use of affiliate links or tracking codes. When a potential traveler clicks on an affiliate link embedded in the marketer's content, a tracking code identifies the source of the referral.

Strackr emerges as a comprehensive affiliate tool tailored for publishers, streamlining the affiliate marketing experience with our user-friendly dashboard, unified API, and an array of consolidated tools. Designed to simplify the management of multiple networks, Strackr proves to be a game-changer for those navigating the dynamic landscape of travel affiliate programs.

Here are some of Strackr’s key features:

Centralized Data Management: Tired of logging into multiple networks throughout the day? Strackr brings all your affiliate data under one roof, eliminating the hassle of navigating through various platforms.

Seamless Network Connectivity: Connect effortlessly to hundreds of affiliate networks or direct affiliate programs. Manage API changes and downtimes with ease, and keep your data updated multiple times a day for a real-time view of your performance.

Top-Notch Security Measures: We take security seriously. Your connection data is not only encrypted but also hashed, ensuring the utmost protection for your sensitive information.

The Power of One API: Whether you're building a comparison engine, a cashback platform, or a couponing website, Strackr simplifies development with our unified API . Access all the necessary data in one place, making application development a breeze.

Strackr Example: Capital Koala

In affiliate marketing, Capital Koala faced the challenge of efficiently monitoring the performance of their extensive network of 2,000 advertiser partners. The need for real-time data, streamlined connectivity, and a unified solution became paramount to stay ahead in a competitive landscape.

Strackr not only consolidated all affiliate data in one place, eliminating the need for logging into multiple networks, but we also provided seamless connectivity to their 2,000 advertiser partners. The unique potential of Strackr in the market became evident as we empowered Capital Koala to monitor and optimize their affiliate marketing efforts with unparalleled efficiency.

Why are Travel Affiliate Programs Important?

Travel affiliate programs shape the way travelers discover and engage with the vast offerings of the global travel industry. Here are some benefits of travel affiliate programs:

Monetization Opportunities: Travel affiliate programs provide a lucrative avenue for individuals to monetize their digital platforms. Whether through blogs, social media, or other online channels, marketers can earn commissions by promoting travel-related products and services, turning their passion for exploration into a sustainable income stream.

Trusted Recommendations: In an era where consumers seek authenticity, travel affiliate marketers become trusted sources of information. Personalized recommendations from these affiliates lend credibility and influence consumer decisions, as consumers often rely on firsthand experiences and insights when planning their trips.

Diverse Product Range: Affiliate marketers can choose programs that align with their niche or audience, allowing for a diverse range of promotional opportunities and ensuring relevance to their followers.

Global Reach and Connectivity: Travel is a universal interest, and affiliate programs in this sector offer marketers the chance to connect with a global audience. By promoting destinations, services, and experiences, affiliates can tap into a vast and diverse market, expanding their reach beyond geographical boundaries.

Criteria To Consider When Choosing Travel Affiliate Programs

When choosing travel affiliate programs, you should consider certain factors to ensure they align with your goals and audience needs. These criteria include:

Commission Structure

Look for programs that offer a competitive and fair commission rate. Higher commissions can mean more earnings, but it's also important to consider how often bookings are made in that specific travel niche.

Cookie Duration

This refers to how long the cookie stays on a potential customer's browser after they click on your affiliate link. A longer duration can increase the chances of earning a commission if a booking is made later. Some use last-click attribution, while others may use multi-touch attribution. Knowing these details helps you gauge the effectiveness of your marketing efforts.

Choose affiliate programs from reputable and well-established travel companies. A good reputation ensures trust and increases the likelihood of conversions. Adequate support, whether through responsive customer service or comprehensive resources, is vital for navigating challenges and optimizing your performance.

Ease of Use

The program should have an easy-to-use interface for tracking sales , commissions, and performance metrics. User-friendly platforms can significantly enhance your affiliate marketing efforts.

Adaptability and Innovation

Programs that continuously update and improve their offerings to adapt to changing travel trends and customer needs can offer more long-term benefits.

Top Travel Affiliate Programs 2024

Explore the best Travel Affiliate Programs of 2024, uncovering valuable opportunities for digital marketers and content creators in the ever-evolving world of travel affiliate marketing. Check out our top picks below:

Booking.com

Tripadvisor, g adventures, travelpayouts.

World Nomads

Expedia, a leading global travel brand, offers access to an extensive network of over 140,000 properties worldwide, along with discounted flights, vacation packages, cruises, and car rentals. With more than 500 travel partnerships, users can potentially save up to $500 on combined airline tickets and hotel bookings. Expedia's loyalty program allows users to earn points for future travel, adding an extra incentive.

URL: Expedia Affiliate Program

Commission: 2%-6%

Cookie Duration: 7 days

Booking.com, a prominent online travel platform, covers a range of services such as hotel bookings, airline tickets, and car rentals. Renowned as one of the most popular travel comparison sites globally, it boasts nearly 30 million bookable rooms across over 2.5 million properties. The platform's affiliate program, hosting over 12,500 affiliates, offers a 4% commission on all bookings with a seven-day EPC exceeding $160.

URL: Booking.com Affiliate Program

Commission: 4%

Cookie Duration: Session-based

Agoda, a global online travel accommodation platform, stands among the largest with a network exceeding two million vacation rentals and hotel bookings. Unlike specializing in a single area, Agoda offers deals catering to various travel needs, from business and leisure to solo and family trips, encompassing a broad audience of travel bloggers.

URL: Agoda Affiliate Program

Commission: up to 7%

Cookie Duration: 30 days

Tripadvisor, renowned for its role as a leading online review platform, also functions as a hotel and activity booking portal. In the Tripadvisor affiliate program, the primary focus is on accommodation, with affiliate marketers earning a generous 50% commission split from Tripadvisor's hotel earnings.

URL: Tripadvisor Affiliate Program

Commission: 50%

Cookie Duration: 14 days

As its name implies, Hotels.com is a leading provider of hotel accommodations, offering a vast portfolio of over one million properties across 200 countries. Whether you seek a luxurious resort or a cozy bed-and-breakfast, Hotels.com likely has it in its extensive selection. With 85 localized websites available in over 35 languages, the Hotels.com affiliate program provides access to a truly global audience.

URL: Hotels.com Affiliate Program

G Adventures positions itself as a leader in small group adventure travel, offering unique experiences such as living like a local in the Amazon, touring North Asia by rail, or mountain trekking in Nepal, rather than conventional fly-and-flop trips to all-inclusive resorts. Although it caters to a relatively niche market, projected to be worth $1.6 trillion by 2026, it stands out as one of the best affiliate programs for adventure travel blogs.

URL: G Adventures Affiliate Program

Commission: 6% per sale

Cookie Duration: 60 days

Unlike other travel sites listed here that operate as individual brands with specific affiliate programs, Travelpayouts distinguishes itself as a pay-per-action affiliate network. It offers a diverse range of referral programs covering flights, hotel bookings, car rentals, and insurance. With access to over 90 travel affiliate programs, including exclusive ones from brands like Vrbo, Tripadvisor, and Hilton Honors, Travelpayouts has paid out over $28 million in commissions to around 300,000 affiliates since 2011.

URL: Travelpayouts Affiliate Program

Commission: Varies

Cookie Duration: Varies

Kayak operates its travel affiliate network, encompassing various brands like HotelsCombined and Momondo. Collectively, these brands generate over six billion travel searches annually, collaborate with more than two million properties, and distribute over $76 million in affiliate earnings each year.

URL: Kayak Affiliate Program

As we've explored the top travel affiliate programs, each with its unique offerings and commission structures, it's evident that navigating this space requires careful consideration of various criteria. From commission rates and cookie durations to product relevance and program reputation, affiliate marketers need a comprehensive tool to streamline their efforts.

With our all-in-one affiliate tool, Strackr simplifies the management of multiple networks, providing a centralized platform to handle diverse travel programs efficiently. Strackr is designed to meet the needs of affiliate marketers navigating the dynamic world of travel partnerships, from ensuring security through encrypted connections to offering one API for unified data access.

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29 Best Travel Affiliate Programs To Promote In 2024

Updated: January 29, 2024 By Bill Burniece

Travel Affiliate Programs

In this guide, we ranked and reviewed the very best travel affiliate programs to promote.

Here is the editorial review process we used to create this list.

The travel niche took a beating during the global pandemic. The travel industry has bounced back strongly and in June of 2022 reached spending of over $100 billion dollars.

What Are The Best Travel Affiliate Programs?
#1 Travelpayouts – WayAway

Affiliate Signup Link: Click Here

Affiliate Description:

Travelpayouts offers one of the best travel affiliate programs in the world.

Their platform offers travelers comparison tools and deals they want and you earn big commissions as an affiliate marketer.

Their technical features, promo tools, and affiliate dashboard is first class.

Travelpayouts covers the entire range of travel affiliate programs in one place: flights, hotels, ground transportation, tours, and more.

Travelpayouts full review

WayAway is a brand-new flight aggregator that offers travelers the best rates on flight tickets and other travel deals.

With this one-click travel search engine, you can find the best air ticket on one of the hundreds of websites for free.

Signing up for WayAway’s membership plan – WayAway Plus – allows travelers to get cashback on flights, hotels, car rentals, and much more.

WayAway offers 30 days of cookie lifetime on the website.

WayAway is created by Travelpayouts – the world’s largest travel affiliate platform with more than 10 years of experience.

TripAdvisor

Affiliate Commissions: Earn 50% commissions.

Cookie Duration: 14 days.

Company Description:

TripAdvisor ® is the world’s largest travel site*, enabling travelers to realize the full potential of each trip.

TripAdvisor offers advice for millions of travelers and a wide variety of travel choices and planning features with seamless links to booking tools that check hundreds of websites to find the best hotel prices.

TripAdvisor branded sites make up the largest travel community in the world, reaching 350 million average monthly unique visitors**, and reached 385 million reviews and opinions covering 6.6 million accommodations, restaurants, and attractions.

It’s huge. And it also has one of the highest paying travel affiliate programs.

GetYourGuide

Cookie Duration: 30 days.

GetYourGuide transforms ordinary trips into extraordinary ones.

They want to be your guide, bringing you personal experiences.

Millions of customers have used GetYourGuide to turn their travel dreams into reality.

They are changing the way people connect to the places they visit so anyone can create their ideal vacation.

PO Box Zone

Affiliate Commissions: Earn 10% of gross profit from all services.

Cookie Duration: Not listed.

This service is a little different. It is a mail service created for frequent travelers.

It works like an extremely advanced P.O. box.

Customers can avoid the hassle of going to pick up mail in person, as their mail is always immediately accessible online.

PO Box Zone is Located at a physical street address. Their employees can accept any letter on your behalf, even FedEx, UPS, DHL, and other courier packages that normal P.O. boxes cannot.

Affiliate Commissions: CPL with an average commission of 18€ (per claim accepted by Airhelp), or CPO, with around a 20% of the Airhelp fee after the claim has been reimbursed by the airline.

AirHelp assists air passengers around the world secure compensation for delayed, canceled, or overbooked flights.

They fight for millions of travelers who are unsure of their rights, lack the time, or lack the expertise to embark on the claims process independently.

They hold the airlines to their financial obligations.

They fight back in court through national enforcement bodies, and online – by exposing the airlines’ ineptitude for properly informing passengers of their rights.

Affiliate Commissions: Earn 10% commissions.

Cookie Duration: 1 year.

Safety Wing offers travel medical insurance that covers people from all over the world, while outside their home country – COVID-19 coverage and others included.

The Affiliate Monkey

Cookie Duration: Varies by program.

The Affiliate Monkey is an affiliate comparison and research website where users can easily filter through hundreds of the worlds best known and highest paying affiliate programs.

That includes travel affiliate programs.

Read my full review: The Affiliate Monkey .

Affiliate Commissions: Earn 4% commissions for each hotel booking that becomes a completed stay.

Cookie Duration: 7 days.

Hotels.com is leading provider of lodging accommodations worldwide including international chains, all-inclusive resorts, and bed & breakfasts.

The site is localized across 85 websites around the world and is available in over 35 languages.

G Adventures

Affiliate Commissions: Earn 6% commissions.

Cookie Duration: 90 days.

G Adventures is an operator of small-group escorted tours. They are based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada with 28 offices worldwide.

G offers more than 700 itineraries in more than 100 countries, and carries 200,000 travelers from 160 countries every year.

Beach Commute

Affiliate Commissions: Earn 30% commissions.

Beach Commute are the creators of Go Remote, the online course that teaches people everything they need to know to get a remote job so that they can become a digital nomad and travel while making an income.

Travel Document Systems

Travel Document Systems (TDS) is a leading visa and passport processing agency.

TDS specializes in travel that involves visas for more than one country.

They provide expedited visa processing for U.S. citizens for countries which require a visa, Canadian citizens where there is no diplomatic representation in Canada, and U.S. permanent residents of other nationalities with visas for other countries.

Travelstride

Affiliate Commissions: Earn up to 50% rev share on traveler bookings.

Travelstride is the #1 community marketplace for extraordinary world travel.

They host more than 50,000 expert-planned trips from group tour packages to luxury, tailor-made trips, to expedition cruises, and independent adventures.

With itineraries across every continent planned by 1,600+ of the best local experts and global companies.

International Drivers Association

Affiliate Commissions: Earn 20% commissions for each sale.

The International Drivers Association allows people to get their International Driving Permit in minutes.

It is a hassle-free process that allows customers to drive or rent a car in 150+ countries with an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Affiliate Commissions: Earn 5% commissions per sale.

REI is obviously known as an outdoor gear company.

But they also make essential products for people who travel.

InsureMyTrip

Affiliate Commissions: Earn $10 per verified hit.

InsureMyTrip is a leader in the travel insurance business.

They make it easy for travelers to find the right policy for their trip by comparing top plans and providers based on their trip details.

InsureMyTrip was the first travel insurance comparison site and has over 23 years of experience in the industry.

They have an award-winning customer service team of fully licensed agents.

You might also like: Best rental car affiliate programs

Affiliate Commissions: Earn 6% per sale.

Expedia is huge.

The Expedia Group, Inc. is an American online travel shopping company for consumer and small business travel.

Its vast website portfolio includes Expedia.com, Vrbo, Hotels.com, Hotwire.com, Orbitz, Travelocity, Trivago and CarRentals.com.

They connect partners big and small to the universe of travelers, giving access to data, tools, and technology.

Cookie Duration: None. Same day only.

Booking.com has grown from a small Dutch startup to one of the world largest travel e-commerce companies.

Booking.com invests in digital technology that helps take the problems out of travel.

Booking.com connects travelers with the world’s largest selection of apartments, vacation homes, B&Bs, 5-star luxury resorts, tree houses, and even igloos.

The Booking.com website and mobile apps are available in over 40 languages, offer 28,479,015 total reported listings, and cover 148,487 destinations in 229 countries and territories worldwide.

Affiliate Commissions: Earn 5% commissions.

Travala.com has grown from a small start-up to the world’s leading blockchain-based travel booking platform trusted by thousands of travelers worldwide.

They connect travelers to one of the world’s largest selections of amazing places to stay, including hotels, apartments, villas, hostels, and 5-star luxury resorts.

The Travala.com platform currently offers 2,200,000+ properties covering 90,124 destinations in 230 countries and territories, and with prices up to 40% cheaper than mainstream travel booking platforms.

Affiliate Commissions: Hotel stays = 4-6% commissions. Vacation packages = 3% commissions.

With more than 3,900 hotels in 72 countries and 15 brands, Marriott has something for every type of traveler, and prices to match.

As a Marriott affiliate you can earn commissions on completed hotel stays and vacation package purchases.

Participation is free and a great way to earn commissions each time any of your site visitors click on a Marriott link and complete a Marriott hotel stay or purchase a Marriott vacation package.

You might also like: Best private jet affiliate programs

Agoda.com (aka Agoda) is a Singaporean online travel agency for hotels, vacation rentals, flights, and airport transfers.

As an affiliate, Agoda’s commission rates increase as you make more bookings.

The more completed (checked-out) bookings you have each month, the higher the percentage of those bookings you get paid for that month.

Affiliate Commissions: Earn a revenue share starting at 20%.

Skyscanner started back in 2003 as a simple way to compare flight prices.

Today they are a global company, proud to work side by side with the biggest names in travel.

100 million travelers rely on then each month and they’re proud to be the most trusted travel search site in the world.

Priceline Partner Network

Affiliate Commissions: Commissions vary by offer.

We are the travel affiliate program from Priceline®, the leader in online travel deals. For us, every trip is a big deal.

World Nomads

Cookie Duration: 60 days.

WorldNomads.com is a website that provides international travel insurance and travel safety services to travelers.

Customers can buy this insurance after they have already left home and are traveling. That is cool.

World Nomads is the recommended travel insurance partner of Lonely Planet.

Affiliate Commissions: Earn 35-50% commissions.

Tripaneer is the world’s leading marketplace to explore and book unforgettable travel experiences.

They offer any type of holiday imaginable, including yoga retreats, adventurous safaris, surf camps, and much more.

Passport Visas Express

Affiliate Commissions: Earn up to 15% commissions.

Passport Visas Express is a professional expediting company officially recognized by and registered with the U.S. Passport Agency.

They assist travelers obtain their passport in as little as 24 hours.

There simply isn’t a faster, more accurate, and safer way to get travel documents.

Viator Partners

Affiliate Commissions: Earn 8% commissions.

Viator has 300,000+ experiences to explore -everything from simple tours to extreme adventures (and all the niche, interesting stuff in between).

With industry-leading flexibility and last-minute availability, they offer travel options other don’t.

Affiliate Commissions: Earn 15% commissions per sale.

Take Walks is a unique tour booking service that has a team of 100 ground staff that operates nearly 600 guides in 13 of the world’s most exciting cities

Its guided walking tours have been booked by more than one million travelers.

Affiliate Commissions: Earn 50% of the KAYAK’s revenue from each flight booking.

KAYAK is a travel platform with more than two billion searches performed on approximately 60 international sites annually.

KAYAK’s has global brand awareness and one of the highest CPA and commission rates in the travel niche.

Plus, profit is made easier thanks to the brand’s TV presence in many markets, and numerous advanced revenue-generating solutions it provides.

TrustedHouseSitters

Affiliate Commissions: Earn up to 40% commissions.

TrustedHousesitters is a community of pet lovers helping each other by offering unlimited pet and home care in exchange for a free place to stay.

Pet parents can travel with confidence knowing they’ve secured the very best care for their best friend.

While sitters get to stay in unique homes around the world and enjoy the company of pets. It’s a win-win for everyone… even the pets.

Tips To Promote Travel Affiliate Programs Online:
Create a niche-specific website or blog on the travel topics you wish to cover
Create or buy a lead magnet to give away for free in exchange for email addresses so you can build your private prospect list
Create pages on social media platforms that travelers enjoy visiting. Share your content there to build your audience, increase awareness, and drive traffic back to your travel site or blog
Learn from a super-affiliate who can help you shorten your success curve
Build relationships on the social media platforms by entering discussions and contributing to the conversation
Separate yourself from other travel-related websites by offering a unique voice or taking a different approach
Select travel affiliate programs that match the needs and destination targets of your audience

The travel industry was hammered by the COVID-19 global pandemic.

All signs point to the the travel market poised to rebound in a big way once people start feeling comfortable traveling again.

Travel affiliate programs should thrive as people with cabin-fever begin to spend freely on airline tickets and hotels. If you’re not promoting the travel niche, this would be a perfect time to get started.

Table of Contents

Commissions Comparison:

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Disclosure: The operator of this website is a 3rd party marketer with a material connection to product/service providers appearing on this site in that we are compensated for sales made through our affiliate links.

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45 of the Best Travel Affiliate Programs for 2024

Affiliate Marketing

Looking to start a travel affiliate program? Or do you want to find the best travel affiliate programs out there? You’re in the right place.

Travel is one of the most profitable niches in the affiliate industry. If you are a travel brand, an affiliate program is an essential avenue to amplify your reach through authentic word-of-mouth promotion.

Post COVID-19, travel has seen a resurgence. The average traveler spends $1708 on a three day family vacation for a family of four.

Plus, revenue in the travel and tourism industry is set to reach $854.70 billion in 2023.

Not only that, but by 2027, 74% of total revenue for travel brands will be fueled through online sales. This is a huge opportunity for affiliate marketers and brands alike to gain a competitive advantage.

What is a Travel Affiliate Program?

In simple terms, they are partnerships where travel brands pay individuals or other companies (also known as affiliates) for sending paying customers their way.

Think of it like a friend recommending a hotel or a travel agency to you. If you book a room or a trip because of your friend’s recommendation, and your friend gets a small ‘thank you’ payment from the hotel or agency, that’s basically how an affiliate program works, but on a much larger scale.

In the travel world, this could include recommendations from a famous travel blogger or influencer for hotels, flights, tours, or even travel insurance. They create content about travel for their audience. When someone in their audience purchases by clicking an affiliate link (or referral link) they share or using a coupon code, they will earn a commission on the sale for each successful referral. It is all tracked using affiliate tracking software like Tapfiliate.

Ready to boost your bookings? Join Tapfiliate now for a 👉 free 14-day trial and kickstart your travel affiliate program!

Benefits of Travel Affiliate Programs

Whether you are a brand or an affiliate there are several benefits to travel affiliate programs. We’ll take a deep dive for both brands and affiliates so you can make an informed decision.

For Travel Brands:

Travel brands with affiliate programs have a myriad of benefits and it doesn’t only include increased sales and revenue. Let’s dive in!

Increased Sales and Revenue: Affiliate marketing gives travel brands the opportunity to increase bookings or sales and take advantage of word of mouth marketing .

Cost-Effective Marketing, Especially for Those with Lower Margins: Marketing can be tough when you have low margins (airlines, we are looking at you!) With affiliate marketing you only pay commissions on sales made with a smaller upfront cost.

Risk Mitigation: When you are marketing your travel brand it is essential to have diverse revenue channels. By including affiliate marketing into the mix you are mitigating your risk. Additionally, the financial risk is less, because you pay for performance.

Expanded Reach and Visibility: Affiliate marketing gives you access to new audiences and increased brand awareness through word of mouth marketing.

Increased Credibility: When people talk positively about your brand with their audience it builds trust with your brand. You can build a positive image using endorsements and content from reputable affiliates.

Performance Tracking and Data Insights: Data is the additional layer you need to understand your customers and optimize your marketing strategies to increase growth. With an affiliate tracking software like Tapfiliate , you can track sales in real-time and optimize your strategies.

Strengthened Partnerships: Long-term relationships are key to a successful affiliate program. When you have developed a network of partners and influencers, ensure you create long-term relationships.

Flexibility and Scalability: An affiliate program gives you the opportunity for flexibility and scalability. As an advertiser, you can choose your own commission rate and whether you offer commission increases for your top performers. Once you start to grow you can easily scale your program.

Competitive Advantage: The travel industry is a competitive space. Your brand needs to stay ahead and stand out. An affiliate program enables you to use word of mouth to stand out from competitors.

User-Generated Content: Content generated by your affiliates is a great way to highlight your brand and promote yourself to your audience.

Take advantage of these benefits and start your travel affiliate program now with a 👉 free 14-day trial.

For Affiliates:

If you are an affiliate who is looking to join travel affiliate programs to market to your audience, there are several benefits whether you focus on business travelers or backpackers.

Additional Income to Talk About Something You Are Passionate About: If you are passionate about travel, affiliate marketing enables you to earn money without needing to create a product or service yourself.

Free Stays and Comped Trips: If you are a successful affiliate, some brands will offer complimentary stays or free products to help you promote more successfully.

Low Start-Up Costs: As an affiliate there are no costs to join an affiliate program and start promoting, so it’s accessible for anyone.

Performance-Based Earnings: You earn more when you sell more. There’s no cap on the limit you can earn.

Multiple Income Streams: When you promote a travel brand, you aren’t tied to that brand. You can promote multiple products and services giving you multiple affiliate income streams.

Networking Opportunities: When you join an affiliate program, often you talk to an affiliate program manager and sometimes they have communities for their affiliates. This is a great networking opportunity.

Training, Education and Development of Skills: To help affiliates succeed, many affiliate programs offer training, resources and support. Many affiliates hone their skills in digital marketing, content and SEO to drive additional revenue.

Flexibility and Independence: Being an affiliate gives you the ultimate flexibility. You can work from anywhere and set your own schedule. You’ll have total control over your promotional strategies and your content.

Data Insights and Performance Tracking : With many affiliate programs, you are provided with your own login area to track your sales. This gives you the opportunity to try and tweak your performance and optimize your strategy.

45 of the Best Travel Affiliate Programs

We’ve rounded up the best travel affiliate programs that you can join including some of the most popular affiliate programs. We’ve grouped them into categories: search aggregators, flights and transport, insurance, gear and guides, stays, tour companies, and cars and car rentals.

As an affiliate working with travel brands, it can sometimes be the case that you won’t get paid a commission until a booking has been completed. It means that sometimes you will wait a long time for a commission so the sooner you start promoting, the better.

Search Aggregator:

Booking.com.

Cookie duration / referral window: Not listed

Commission rate: Up to 40%

Booking.com is a global leader in online travel, providing a wide selection of accommodation options from hotel bookings to vacation rentals, with search tools and customer reviews.

Their affiliate program has a tiered commission structure based on the number of bookings you get. Their top tier of commission is 40% for 501+ stays booked per month. Currently they do not pay commissions on car rentals.

Expedia's affiliate program landing page

Cookie duration / referral window: 7 days

Commission rate: Up to 6%

Expedia is one of the world’s largest travel agencies, offering a wide selection of travel options including flights, hotels, car rentals, and vacation packages.

Commission rates are based on categories and vary widely. For example, flight bookings earn $2 regardless of value, where car bookings give 2% on the sale value.

Cookie length / referral window: 7 days

Commission rate: 4%

Hotels.com is a leading online hotel booking platform, providing travelers with access to hundreds of thousands of properties worldwide, ranging from international chains and all-inclusive resorts to local favorites and bed & breakfasts. They offer 4% commission on sales with some exceptions including gift cards.

Cookie duration / referral window: 30 days

Commission rate: 20%

Skyscanner helps travelers to find the best options for their trips with comprehensive comparisons of flight prices, hotels, and car rentals from a wide selection of providers.

Skyscanner is a household name offering searchable flights, hotels and car hire. They pay 20% commission on sales. Flights and car hire do not earn commissions. Their referral window is 30 days which is generous compared to their competitors.

Cookie duration / referral window: 30 minutes

Commission rate: Up to 50% or $0.95 per click.

Kayak is a widely recognized travel search engine that aggregates data from hundreds of travel sites, providing users with a comprehensive view of their options for flights, hotels, car rentals, and more.

When you join the Kayak affiliate program you’ll also get access to HotelsCombined, momondo and cheapflights.

TripAdvisor

Cookie duration / referral window: 14 days

Commission Rate: Up to 40% TripAdvisor is one of the largest and most comprehensive travel platforms, offering millions of reviews, opinions, and recommendations on hotels, restaurants, attractions, and more. The platform enables travelers to make informed decisions through user-generated content, while also providing the ability to compare prices and book a wide range of travel services

The affiliate program is based on clicks and not on sales so you don’t need someone to book something to earn a commission. Tripadvisor earns a referral fee when a customer clicks out to any of the booking sites, which they then share with you, their affiliate.

Cookie duration / referral window: Session

Commission: up to 7%

Agoda is a global online travel agency with an extensive inventory of hotels, vacation rentals, and flights, catering to travelers seeking diverse and affordable accommodation options. They offer a tiered commission rate based on the number of stays you refer. You earn 7% for 1000+ stays per month.

Cheaptickets.com

Commission rate: Up to 8%

CheapTickets is an online travel agency offering a wide range of affordable travel options, including flights, hotels, car rentals, and vacation packages.

Commission rates are paid on a category basis, with some categories earning a specific dollar amount, and others a percentage of the sale. For example, event tickets earn 8% commission, and cruise bookings earn $30.

Commission rate: 3%

Priceline is a popular online travel agency known for offering substantial discounts on hotels, flights, car rentals, and vacation packages. They offer 3% commission on the sale value, but also offer a set rate of $2 for flight bookings.

Cookie length / referral window: 45 days

Commission rate: Up to $3 per booking.

JustFly is an online travel agency that uses its technology to offer travelers budget-friendly options for flights, hotels, and car rentals. The platform streamlines the booking process and provides access to numerous travel deals. This affiliate program offers set dollar amounts on bookings, regardless of value with international flights earning the maximum commission amount.

Cheapoair's travel affiliate program page

Cookie length / referral window: 90 days

Commission rate: Up to $35 per booking.

CheapOair is an online travel agency known for offering competitive prices on flights, hotels, and car rentals, helping travelers find affordable travel options across the globe.

Their commission rates are tiered per category. For example, the highest paying category is vacation packages, and if you get 501+ sales per month you’ll get $35 per booking. For flight insurance you would get $5 per sale if you got 100 or less sales in a month.

Flights / Transport

Qatar airways.

Commission rate: 2%

Qatar Airways, the state-owned flag carrier of Qatar, is renowned for its luxurious cabin offerings, hospitality, and commitment to innovation. They offer a set rate of 2% commission on all sales, regardless of whether a flight is first class or economy.

Cookie length / referral window: 30 days

Commission rate: 1.25%

Emirates, based in Dubai, is one of the world’s leading airlines, known for its service, state-of-the-art fleet, and extensive global network connecting passengers to over 150 destinations. They offer a commission rate of 1.25% on all bookings.

Etihad Airways

Etihad's affiliate partner program page on their website

Commission rate: 1.6%

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, is known for its luxurious services, offerings, and an extensive network connecting passengers to key destinations worldwide. Their affiliate program offers a 1.6% commission rate on all flights booked.

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

Commission rate: Up to 1.5%

Renowned for its reliable services, extensive global network, and innovative approach to environmentally responsible flying, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines connects passengers from around the world,They offer 1.5% commission for long haul flights, and other flights booked earn 1%.

AirFrance affiliate program landing page

Air France, France’s flagship airline, offers an extensive global network connecting passengers to hundreds of destinations across the globe. They offer 1.25% commission on flight bookings.

Hawaiian Airlines

Commission rate: 1.5%

Hawaiian Airlines operates a comprehensive network of flights that connect the Hawaiian Islands with numerous destinations in the United States, Asia, and the South Pacific, offering passengers a gateway to the unique beauty and culture of Hawaii.

They offer 1.5% commission on all flights booked.

Interrail pass / Eurail pass

Commission rate: Up to 5%

Eurail and Interrail offer rail passes that provide flexible and cost-effective travel options across Europe, catering to both non-European residents (Eurail) and European residents (Interrail) respectively.

They offer different passes which enable you to travel to up to 33 countries. They offer up to 5% commission on global passes, and 3% commission on one-country passes.

Going (Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights)

Cookie length / referral window: Up to 30 days

Commission rate: Up to $40

Going, formerly known as Scott’s Cheap Flights, is a travel deal alert service that helps subscribers save money by notifying them of discounted and error fares for international flights.

Cookie lengths and commissions vary. For example, email verification earns $1 and the referral window is 7 days. For membership purchases you can earn $40 and the referral window from clicks is 30 days.

Dollar Flight Club

Commission rate: 40%

Dollar Flight Club is a subscription-based service that alerts members to low-cost flight deals, helping travelers save money on airfare to destinations worldwide. They offer a set 40% commission per sale.

FerryHopper

Commission rate: 1% of gross booking value

Ferryhopper is an online platform that streamlines the process of booking ferry tickets, offering a comprehensive database of ferry routes across Europe and beyond.

They pay 1% commission on the gross booking value.

Shuttlefinder

ShuttleFinder is an online platform that connects travelers with a variety of airport shuttle services, offering a range of options from shared rides to private vehicles. Their affiliate program offers 20% commission on sales.

Travel Insurance Affiliate Programs

World nomads affiliate program.

Cookie length / referral window: 60 days

Commission rate: 0.83USD per order

World Nomads is a renowned travel insurance company that caters to adventurous travelers, providing comprehensive coverage for a wide range of activities and unexpected incidents.

For affiliates they offer a flat rate of $0.83 per order, regardless of the order value. The cookie length of 60 days is pretty long considering most travel brands have shorter referral windows.

Cookie length / referral window: 365 days

Commission rate: 10%

SafetyWing offers specialized travel insurance catering to digital nomads, remote workers, and frequent travelers, providing comprehensive coverage that includes medical, and travel interruption. They offer a 10% recurring commission for up to a year.

Gear & Travel Guides:

Travelpro's affiliate program page on their website

Commission rate: Up to 10%

Travelpro is a luggage brand, regarded for its durable travel bags designed to meet the rigorous demands of frequent travelers and flight crews. With a focus on quality, functionality, and style, Travelpro offers a wide range of luggage options, ensuring travelers can find the perfect gear to suit their journey.

Their affiliate program offers a base commission rate of 8%, but commissions increase to 9% for sales of $500+, and 10% commission for sales above $1000. They also offer free products for sweepstakes.

Cookie length / referral window: 15 days

Commission rate: 5%

REI is a well-established outdoor retail cooperative, providing a range of high-quality gear, apparel, and equipment for camping, hiking, cycling, and various other outdoor activities. Their travel selection includes bags, car racks, luggage and more. They offer a 5% commission on sales.

Cookie length / referral window: 14 days

eBags is an online retailer specializing in luggage, backpacks, and travel accessories, offering a wide range of products to suit various travel needs. The commission rate is 3% with some exceptions on specific SKUs including gift cards.

Lonely Planet

Commission rate: 15%

Lonely Planet are well known for their travel guidebooks, but they also sell a variety of different travel-themed books and maps as well. They offer 15% commission on all sales.

Hotel Affiliate Programs & Stays

Accor hotels.

Accor travel affiliate program page on their website

Accor is a hospitality group, boasting a diverse portfolio of over 5,100 properties across luxury, mid-scale, and economy segments. Commission is 4% on the sale value, and they have programs serving Europe and the USA.

IHG Hotels and Resorts

IHG's travel affiliate marketing page on their website

IHG Hotels & Resorts is a global hospitality company, boasting a broad portfolio of well-known hotel brands spanning from luxury to economy. Their affiliate program offers 3% commission with a few exceptions that don’t pay commission.

Hostelworld

Commission rate: 18-22%

Hostelworld is a leading online booking platform dedicated to helping travelers find and reserve budget-friendly hostel accommodations worldwide. They offer 18-22% commission.

TrustedHousesitters

TrustedHousesitters connects homeowners with reliable sitters who provide pet care and security for their homes in exchange for accommodation. This means worry-free travel for pet owners.

For affiliates, they have a high average order value combined with a high conversion rate on their website.

Homeexchange.com

Commission rate: Up to $20

Home Exchange is a global platform that enables travelers to swap their homes with others, allowing for a unique and cost-effective way to travel. For affiliates looking to promote Home Exchange commission starts at $5 for an account signup. You’ll get $10 when a home is completed 80%, and then $20 for a subscription.

Tour Companies

Commission rate: 8%

Viator, a TripAdvisor company, is an online marketplace that provides travelers with access to thousands of tours, activities, and experiences worldwide. You get 8% commission on all completed bookings.

Get Your Guide

Cookie length / referral window: 31 days

GetYourGuide is an online platform offering a wide array of tours, activities, and experiences worldwide, connecting travelers with local operators for memorable adventures.

G Adventures

Commission rate: 6%

G Adventures is a travel company specializing in authentic, sustainable small-group tours that connect travelers to local cultures and environments around the world. Commissions are 6% on all completed trips.

City Sightseeing

City Sightseeing is a global brand renowned for its iconic open-top, hop-on hop-off bus tours, providing flexible and convenient sightseeing options in over 100 cities worldwide. They pay 10% commission on sales.

CitysightsNY

Commission rate: Up to 15%

CitySights NY provides a comprehensive range of sightseeing tours and experiences across New York City, showcasing the Big Apple’s iconic landmarks, neighborhoods, and attractions.

Car & RV Rentals:

Cookie length / referral window: 1 day

Commission rate: 3%

Hertz is one of the most recognized car rental companies globally, renowned for its extensive fleet, numerous locations, and commitment to customer service. They offer a set 3% commission on the sale value.

RentalCars.com

Rentalcars.com is a leading online car rental service, providing customers with a wide array of vehicle options from various trusted suppliers worldwide. They offer 6% commission on bookings where the customer pays upfront, and 1% commission when a customer chooses to pay later.

Commission rate: 1%

Enterprise Rent-A-Car is a globally recognized car rental company, renowned for its extensive fleet, numerous convenient locations, and exceptional customer service. Catering to a variety of travel needs, from daily errands to road trips, Enterprise offers a wide range of vehicles. They offer 1% commission and if you are new to affiliate marketing they offer tutorials.

Discovercars.com

Commission rate: 70% of car rental profit plus 30% of their full coverage revenue

DiscoverCars is a global car rental platform that offers users a comprehensive search and booking service, aggregating deals from a wide range of providers. They have a long referral window and commissions are generous.

Budget

Cookie length / referral window: Unlisted

Commission rate: Up to 4%

Budget is a globally recognized car rental company offering affordable and reliable vehicle options for both leisure and business travelers. They offer up to 4% commission on bookings. Their referral window is unlisted.

Cookie lifetime / referral window: 30 days

Commission rate: $60+

Outdoorsy is a peer-to-peer RV rental platform that connects RV owners with travelers looking to experience the freedom and adventure of an RV vacation.

Cookie length / referral window: 30 days

Commission rate: 4% per booking or $7 for a new RV listing

RVshare stands as a leading peer-to-peer RV rental platform, facilitating connections between RV owners and travelers seeking unique and flexible travel experiences. They offer 4% per completed stay, or $7 for every new RV listing.

How to Set Up Your Travel Affiliate Program

If you are a travel brand interested in setting up your own affiliate program, this guide will help you to get set up quickly.

1. Choose the Right Affiliate Platform or Software

Opt for an affiliate platform that can adequately support travel-related products and services. Ensure the platform is user-friendly and offers robust features for tracking and reporting, allowing you to monitor bookings, cancellations, and customer interactions efficiently. Given the nature of travel planning, it’s crucial to choose a platform that permits delayed commission payouts, considering the potential gap between booking and actual travel or the potential for cancellations. An affiliate software like Tapfiliate is perfect for this because we do not have rules around payouts – you are in control.

2. Create an Attractive Commission Structure

Travel affiliates are attracted to programs that offer worthwhile incentives. Investigate what similar travel affiliate programs provide (check out our list of travel affiliate programs above) and set your commission rates competitively. You could offer enhanced commissions for high-performing affiliates or additional bonuses for promoting specific destinations during peak seasons, ensuring alignment with travel trends.

Tip: Some brands include a minimum payout amount. A minimum payout means that an affiliate has to have a specific amount of commission approved in order to receive their payout to avoid unecessary fees.

3. Create a Comprehensive Affiliate Agreement

Your affiliate agreement should be comprehensive, outlining all terms and conditions unique to travel promotions. Include specifics on commission rates, the time frame for payouts post-travel, acceptable promotional methods, and any travel-specific branding guidelines. Clarifying these aspects upfront minimizes potential misunderstandings and sets a solid foundation for the partnership.

4. Develop Marketing Materials

Supply your affiliates with a variety of marketing materials tailored to travel promotions. This can include destination-specific banners, travel deal videos, affiliate links and deep links for hotel reviews, and high-resolution images of travel spots. Ensure all materials uphold your brand image and are optimized to attract and convert travel enthusiasts.

5. Recruit Travel-Focused Affiliates

Seek out affiliates that specialize in travel content, such as travel bloggers, vloggers, and influencers with engaged audiences interested in travel. Focus on partners who have a following that aligns with your target demographic and can authentically promote your affiliate products or services.

6. Provide Support and Communication

Establish a strong line of communication with your travel affiliates, offering them the support they need to effectively promote your products. Be prompt in addressing their queries and keep them in the loop regarding any new travel deals, changes in services, or updates to your affiliate program. Regular updates and support help maintain a motivated and informed affiliate network, ensuring the success of your travel affiliate program.

By honing in on the specifics of travel affiliate marketing, you can create a program that attracts the right partners and drives successful promotions.

Transform your travel brand with Tapfiliate! Start your 👉 free 14-day trial today.

Strategies for Promoting a Travel Affiliate Program to Potential Affiliates

1. Optimize Your Program’s Landing Page:

Ensure your travel affiliate program’s landing page on your website is not just a signup form but a comprehensive resource. Highlight popular travel products or packages that affiliates can promote (for example packages for business travelers), showcase testimonials from successful travel affiliates, and clearly outline your competitive affiliate commissions structure and payout timelines.

2. Utilize Social Media:

Use your brand’s social media channels to share captivating travel content that integrates stories of successful affiliate partnerships. Create posts that showcase the unique travel experiences affiliates have helped promote, and highlight the financial and experiential benefits of joining your program.

3. Engage with Online Communities:

Identify forums and online communities where travel bloggers, influencers, and affiliate marketers gather. Participate in these spaces, sharing your travel expertise and insights. Use these interactions as opportunities to subtly introduce your affiliate program, emphasizing its unique advantages for travel content creators.

4. Content Marketing:

Develop blog posts and articles that delve into the world of travel affiliate marketing as a part of your content creation strategy. Share success stories, tips, and strategies specifically tailored to promoting travel products and services. Use these pieces to highlight how your affiliate program stands out and include clear CTAs directing readers to your affiliate signup page.

5. Email Marketing:

Segment your email list to identify individuals with a keen interest in travel and affiliate marketing. Send them tailored email campaigns that showcase the unique aspects of your travel affiliate program, share success stories, and highlight the potential earnings and travel opportunities affiliates can enjoy.

6. Host Webinars and Live Sessions:

Host webinars and live Q&A sessions specifically tailored to travel affiliates. Use these platforms to provide a walkthrough of your affiliate program, share success stories, and give insights into the best practices for promoting travel products and services. This approach helps build a community and offers a direct line of communication with potential affiliates.

7. Network at Industry Events:

Attend industry-specific events and conferences to network with potential travel affiliates. Bring materials that showcase the success of your affiliate program, and be ready to answer questions and discuss the unique advantages of your travel-specific affiliate program.

Start Your Travel Affiliate Program Today

The travel sector stands out as one of the most lucrative arenas in the affiliate industry, offering opportunities for both businesses and affiliates alike.

By integrating a travel affiliate program or referral program into your marketing strategy, you not only enhance your visibility in this competitive field but also significantly mitigate financial risks associated with traditional advertising.

For affiliates, partnering with a travel program opens doors to multiple revenue streams, complimentary stays, and a level of flexibility and independence that is hard to find with other work.

The process of setting up a travel affiliate program and affiliate tools is streamlined and user-friendly, thanks to the flexibility of affiliate software like Tapfiliate .

These platforms provide robust tracking, detailed reporting, and a user-friendly interface, ensuring that both you and your affiliates can focus on what matters most: creating unforgettable travel experiences and generating revenue.

Can’t wait to get started and set up your travel affiliate program? Start your 👉 free 14-day trial of Tapfiliate today.

Ashley Howe

I’m the content strategist here at Tapfiliate. Living in Alkmaar, I like reading books, travel and ramen. You can find me on LinkedIn or Twitter .

Table of contents

18 Best Travel Affiliate Programs For 2024 (Travel & Earn As a Travel Blogger)

Making money online has never been easier for travel bloggers.

Because there is so much terrain to cover, new destinations will need exposure through countless promotional mediums (such as blogs, social media, etc)… And as the sheer number of wonderful places continuously emerge, the online community will always welcome information from firsthand experiences.

Did you know that you can monetize sharing information and experiences from your travel exploits?

Well, not all income-generating websites have highly competitive rates but below you will find only the best travel affiliate programs to arm with you the products you can promote to create a steady income stream for yourself.

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Why Choose The Travel Affiliate Marketing Niche?

Choosing an affiliate marketing niche can be as complicated as being overloaded with too much information or as simple as narrowing down your interests.

Since you’re already here, you’re probably an avid traveller, and you have chosen to share and monetize your globetrotting experiences. If you have yet to decide whether to get into a travel niche, consider the following reasons.

You can certainly make lots of money in the travel niche. People like to travel, and the tons of information you can provide will certainly help others accomplish their travel goals. A successful travel blog will entice people to travel and help you earn commissions from travel products and service providers.

The travel niche in itself encompasses a myriad of sub-niches, such as architectural heritage tourism, voluntourism, food tourism, mountaineering, scuba diving, and surfing.

While travelling is already a hobby, an exact reason for travelling will tailor your goals and gather a specific group of people from the market.

Simply put, whatever travel-related hobbies you want to pursue, there will always be a market for you.

Best Travel Affiliate Programs of 2024

The internet is so diluted with travel-related affiliate programs. You can find thousands of websites to feature your travel experiences, but only a few hundred have a reputation for helping your blogs gain some traction.

In addition, travel affiliate programs vary in their parent company’s products and services. We can narrow the list down to 18 programs to help your search less tedious. No matter the path you choose to take, the following list showcases the best travel affiliate programs you can work with online today.

Expedia Group Affiliate Program

Expedia is a large online company with a vast network of multinational companies under its umbrella. It has a wide selection of products ranging from vacation rentals, packages, flights, cruises, hotels, attractions, and activities. They also partner with other companies like Vrbo, Hotels.com, Orbitz, Travelocity, and Ebookers.

Using the Expedi a Affiliate Pro gram , you can earn competitive commissions from 2% to 6% through your travel blogs. Since Expedia gives you access to its expansive product inventory, you can get your website to drive conversions using the program’s centralized, customizable tools. These tools enable you to create banners that match your website, make tracking links for easy routing, and inspire exploration with widgets.

A drawback with Expedia is its short cookie duration of seven days. Nevertheless, the program allows around 80 bucks of earnings for clicks accumulated in seven days. This earnings-per-click (EPC) metric shows that the website can produce plenty of affiliate income.

Agoda Partner Program

Like Expedia, Agoda offers a wide range of travel products, including hotels, homes, private stays, flights, and leisure activities. It covers the most stunning places and showcases the many activities a traveller can do in such destinations. Furthermore, its offerings vary for all traveller types, including solo, family, small-group, leisure, and business travellers.

Unlike other travel affiliate programs, the Agoda Partner Program focuses on travel bloggers instead of social media influencers. It enables you to monetize the traffic on your website using its free-to-use tools, multilingual platform, and easy platform setup. Moreover, it has higher commission rates of 7% and a substantial cookie duration of 30 days.

However, the program requires a stand-alone traffic-generating website. As a result, any applicant should be a bonafide travel blogger with creative content to entice travel-service-seeking individuals.

Kayak Affiliate Network

Like Expedia, Kayak is a mother company to several other large brands in the travel industry, including HotelsCombined, Momondo, and Cheapflights. Consequently, the Kayak Affiliate Network effectively functions for its affiliates. This network can give you access to several travel affiliate programs with just a single enlistment.

A constant 50 percent commission from its programs seems enticing, and the cookie lifetime for its generated traffic is set at 30 days. However, a drawback of getting commissions from Kayak is you need to earn a minimum of $500 to get a payout.

Skyscanner Affiliate Program

If you’re looking to promote the best deals on flights, hotels, and car rentals, the Skyscanner Affiliate Program is another wide-reaching platform for you. It delivers access to over a thousand travel providers using 35 languages across 60 major destinations.

Like Agoda, Skyscanner keeps cookies from clicks for 30 days. However, the company pays a commission on exits from their website to partner sites. Affiliates will receive a 50 percent revenue share from traffic sent to partner websites.

Travala Affiliate Partner Program

Joining the Travala Affiliate Partner Program means directing online traffic to acquire bookings for accommodations, including hotels, vacation rentals, villas, and resorts. Travala offers more than two million options for accommodations, and the company even supplies sources of flights and destination activities.

For every successful booking from traffic sent to the website, a Travala Partner earns a 5% commission from the cost of each product. The good thing with Travala is that any traffic from your website will have a 90-day cookie window for receiving commissions.

Booking.com Partner Program

Being one of the most popular travel comparison websites on the web, Booking.com seamlessly connects millions of travellers with memorable experiences. It offers a wide range of bookings for accommodations, flights, attractions, and land transportation.

Compared to other websites, Booking.com’s strength lies within its relationship with its partners, effectively removing substantial booking fees. Due to the brand strength and product scale, the Booking.com Partner Program sits am ong the most popular platforms for travel affiliates.

The program offers variable commission rates depending on the number of successful bookings your website can generate in a month. For 50 bookings or less, you will receive a commission that is 25 percent of what Booking.com receives from property owners. Your commissions from Booking.com will increase in 5% increments when you generate 51-150, 151-500, and 501 or more bookings per month, respectively.

Tripadvisor Affiliate Program

If you want online traffic to gain access to more reviews related to your travel blogs, you might want to enlist in the Tripadvisor Affiliate Program . While it offers a 50% commission on successful bookings with accommodations partners, you can earn without successful bookings. As long as you send clicks to Tripadvisor and those clicks land onto hotel booking partners, you will also gain some earnings per click.

However, income generation through the 50 percent payout is only for accommodation bookings. Tripadvisor does not offer commissions on tourist attractions, flights, restaurants, or vacation rentals.

Hotels.com Affiliate Program

Hotels.com features a vast portfolio of more than a million destination properties across 200 countries. You may send traffic to this website by promoting a luxury resort or a modest B-and-B, and you can end up earning 4% from successful bookings using an EPC of seven days.

However, the Hotels.com Affiliate Program courses many of its affiliates through third-party marketing providers, such as Commission Junction , DCM Network, and Affiliate Window. As a result, this program is not as accessible as those from other brands.

Hostelworld Affiliate Program

Unlike the broad range of travel products Agoda, Expedia, and Booking.com, hostels and travel experiences are the focus of Hostelworld. Nevertheless, Hostelworld is also a large travel booking platform, and it offers the Hostelworld Affiliate Program for travel bloggers.

Travel affiliates can earn as much as 40% of the deposits for bookings made within 30 days of the first click through this platform. The program bases the percentage of an affiliate’s commissions on a Cost Per Action (CPA) model.

Travelpayouts Affiliate Network

Compared to individual affiliate programs offered by specific brands, Travelpayouts is an affiliate network, which means it offers various travel affiliate programs on one website. It encompasses flights, hotels, car rentals, tours, activities, and insurance packages, all in one place.

Travelpayouts is a CPA affiliate marketing domain, which means the platform is all about generating leads. As such, affiliate commissions and cookie lifetimes vary depending on the transactions.

Viator Partner Program

For many travel enthusiasts, their focus is all about attractions, things to do, and incomparable experiences. With Viator, you can access events and be physically present on the dot. Joining the Viator Partner Program means earning commissions on unique things to do in specific destinations.

For each successful booking from traffic generated from your website, you can earn an 8% commission. Plus, the cookie lifetime of clicks can stay up to 30 days.

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Klook Affiliate Program

Like Viator, Klook is a leading provider of services for finding things to do in numerous destinations around the globe. However, it also provides bookings for land transportation and places to stay.

Joining the Klook Affiliate Program means discussing your business and listings with a Klook representative. After some deliberation, you can expect to get into a commission fee agreement in the range of 15 to 25 percent.

GetYourGuide Partner Program

While GetYourGuide is a travel agency, it can help you make the most of your next trip with its vast online marketplace for tour guides and excursions. In a way, it is similar to Tripadvisor since it provides thousands of resources for various travel-related activities.

Cookie lifetime and commissions through the GetYourGuide Partner Program are the same as those with Viator.

G Adventures Affiliate Program

If you are an adventure travel blogger, the G Adventures Affiliate Program might be just what you need. Since G Adventures is a leading promoter of small group travels, it narrows down its target market to a more specific niche. Since most adventure travels are once-in-a-lifetime trips, small group bookings usually come at premium prices.

G Adventures rewards a 6% commission to affiliates for all confirmed sales, with an average order value of 2,600 US dollars. This company also allows 90-day cookies to aid conversions from directed traffic. Like Hotels.com, G Adventures uses Commission Junction to track and attribute each transaction.

Take Walks Affiliate Program

Take Walks is similar to G Adventures in the sense that it focuses on tour booking services for small groups of travellers. However, instead of adventures in the great outdoors, Take Walks focuses on touring the world’s most popular city destinations.

While its bookings aren’t necessarily cheap, commissions through the Take Walks Affiliate Program can reach a whopping 15% per booking. However, there is no accurate cookie lifetime for generated traffic to the site.

Plum Guide Affiliate Program

Plum Guide is another unique travel brand with a very specific niche. Instead of marketing millions of variable-type accommodations for travellers, it offers bookings for the world’s finest homes.

While bookings on this website are not cheap, there is a large market for its niche. Travel affiliates joining the Plum Guide Affiliate Program earn 7% on every sale. Additionally, successful bookings convert from traffic up to a cookie period of 90 days.

Lonely Planet Affiliate Program

Whereas many affiliate programs offer travel bookings for destinations and travel plans, Lonely Planet is a vast resource of travel books, eBooks, and guides. Being a travel blogger, you can provide your readers with more information about Lonely Planet products.

The Lonely Planet Affiliate Program provides a high average conversion rate of 12% for travel guides. In addition, travel affiliates can gain 15% of transaction fees for every printed or online material sold.

Boatbookings Charter Yacht Partner and Affiliate Program

If you are passionate about yachts and boats, Boatbookings is an excellent niche brand for you. With them, you can experience trending charter destinations and share your experiences while earning money .

If you just want to generate income without spending too much, Boatbookings honours client introductions through the Boatbookings Charter Yacht Affiliate Program . This program offers up to 10% in commissions for referrals, with cookies lasting up to 30 days.

Travel Equipment Niche

While many travel brands focus on destinations, accommodations, activities, and guides, some specialize in travel equipment. Travel bloggers who like to talk about specific items required for travelling can earn using their affiliate platforms.

Here are some examples:

Amazon Associate Program

Since Amazon is the world’s largest one-stop marketplace for all things under the sun, it also has a sheer size of listings for travel-related products. From luggage and electronics to apparel, Amazon has it all. The Amazon Associates Program enables travel affiliates to gain commissions from product sales referrals.

However, Amazon is not so generous with commissions. Affiliate earnings vary depending on the products, and cookie retention is only up to 24 hours. Nevertheless, generating traffic to Amazon is one of the most popular and biggest affiliate programs out there.

Osprey Affiliate Program

If you want to promote quality travel gear, Osprey is one of your go-to brands. The Osprey Affiliate Program offers an 8% base commission, and cookies stay on their website for up to 30 days.

REI Affiliate Program

Recreational Equipment Incorporated is another venue for travel affiliates to promote outdoor and travel gear. With the REI Affiliate Program , affiliates can earn as much as 5% for every sale, given the purchase occurs within a 15-day cookie window.

Travel Insurance Niche

Another sub-niche within the travel industry is travel insurance sales, and many travellers pay well to ensure travel safety. The following list contains some travel affiliate programs offered by some of the most prominent travel insurance providers:

World Nomads Partner Program
SafetyWing Ambassador Program
InsureMyTrip Affiliate Program
Allianz Global Assistance Affiliate Program

Earning While You Travel Is Possible

As you can see, there is no scarcity of travel affiliate programs for generating income while you enjoy your travels. However, launching a travel blog does not necessarily equate to passive income .

You need to learn how to be an affiliate marketer , and you need to give it some time and effort.

Build your travel website into something interesting, but don’t forget to incorporate keyword-researched strategies so you can compete with the already-established travel bloggers.

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2 thoughts on “18 Best Travel Affiliate Programs For 2024 (Travel & Earn As a Travel Blogger)”

I hope you’re doing well. I lead the affiliate partnerships team at TourRadar, the world’s leading adventure platform. Our affiliate program has 1000s of affiliates who support and inspire travelers in finding their bucket list adventures each year.

I would love the opportunity to collaborate with you to highlight our unique offerings to your audience.

Would you be available for a quick call?

Cheers, Rahul

Hi Rahul; feel free to drop us an email – you can find contact information at the bottom of the page.

40 Best Travel Affiliate Programs in 2024

The travel bug is biting, and everyone’s dreaming of their next great escape. Why not turn those globe-trotting chats into jet-setting gains?

If your audience has the itch to explore new horizons, it’s time to spotlight the best travel affiliate programs that make every journey even more rewarding.

And the sun-kissed bonus? For every adventurer you guide to the ultimate travel deals, you’ll earn a breezy affiliate commission.

Top Travel Affiliate Programs

Do you have a travel affiliate program?

Most Popular Travel Affiliate Programs

Tripadvisor.

Tripadvisor is a global travel platform that assists travelers in making informed decisions by offering user-generated reviews, recommendations, and a wide range of travel choices. From accommodations and flights to experiences and restaurants, Tripadvisor provides a comprehensive travel experience. URL: Tripadvisor Affiliate Program

Travelex Insurance Services

Travelex Insurance Services offers travelers peace of mind with comprehensive travel insurance plans. With benefits like trip cancellation, emergency medical assistance, and 24/7 access to assistance services, Travelex ensures travelers are protected during their journeys. Their commitment to prompt claim payments and diverse insurance plans cater to various travel needs. URL: Travelex Insurance Services Affiliate Program

G Adventures

G Adventures is a small group adventure travel pioneer offering unique and immersive experiences in various destinations worldwide. Focusing on sustainable and responsible travel, G Adventures connects travelers with local communities, ensuring meaningful and memorable journeys. Their tours range from exploring Antarctica’s icy landscapes to cultural experiences in Europe and Asia. URL: G Adventures Affiliate Program

Hostelworld

Hostelworld is a leading platform for booking hostels worldwide, connecting travelers with unique accommodations tailored to their budgets and preferences. The platform offers insights into the hostel experience, with user reviews and ratings guiding travelers to the best stay options. Hostelworld emphasizes community, enabling travelers to connect and share experiences. URL: Hostelworld Affiliate Program

TrustedHousesitters

TrustedHousesitters is a unique platform that connects homeowners with trusted individuals willing to care for their pets and homes during their absence. In exchange for their services, sitters enjoy free accommodations in diverse locations worldwide. The platform emphasizes mutual trust, ensuring pets receive loving care and sitters experience authentic local living. URL: TrustedHousesitters Affiliate Program

InsureMyTrip

InsureMyTrip is a comprehensive platform dedicated to helping travelers compare and choose the best travel insurance policies tailored to their needs. With a user-friendly interface, the platform offers a wide range of policies from various providers, ensuring travelers have the protection they need for their journeys. URL: InsureMyTrip Affiliate Program

Tortuga is a brand that resonates with modern travelers, offering a range of meticulously designed backpacks for urban and adventure travel. Prioritizing functionality and comfort, Tortuga backpacks are created with the traveler’s convenience in mind, ensuring they can focus on the journey ahead. URL: Tortuga Affiliate Program

Trip.com is a global online travel agency assisting millions in planning perfect trips. Whether for leisure or business, Trip.com offers hotels in over 200 countries, flights to thousands of destinations, and 24/7 customer support. Their platform is designed to provide travelers with quality services in multiple languages, ensuring a seamless travel experience. URL: Trip.com Affiliate Program

SquareMouth

SquareMouth is a trusted platform for comparing and purchasing travel insurance. With over two decades of experience, they offer an intuitive comparison engine that helps travelers find the best policy for their needs. SquareMouth’s commitment is to provide unbiased comparisons, ensuring customers get the best value and coverage for their trips. URL: SquareMouth Affiliate Program

A renowned name in the car rental industry, Avis offers a wide selection of vehicles, ensuring travelers can journey in style and comfort. With a commitment to quality service, Avis provides options for both short-term and long-term rentals, catering to the diverse needs of travelers worldwide. URL: Avis Affiliate Program

Under30Experiences

Under30Experiences is a unique travel company focused on curating trips for young adults. With an emphasis on community, adventure, and personal growth, it offers immersive experiences in breathtaking destinations, ensuring travelers make lasting memories and connections. URL: Under30Experiences Affiliate Program

TravelBank serves as a modern solution for business travel and expense management. Its user-friendly interface streamlines booking, expense reporting, and budgeting, making corporate travel more efficient and cost-effective. URL: TravelBank Affiliate Program

Booking is a global leader in online travel accommodations, offering many hotels, homes, and holiday rentals. With properties in over 85,000 destinations, travelers can find the perfect stay for any trip, whether a weekend getaway or an extended vacation. URL: Booking Affiliate Program

Agoda is a renowned online travel platform providing travelers incredible deals on hotels, homes, flights, and more. With its user-centric approach, Agoda ensures a seamless booking experience, making travel more accessible and enjoyable for millions worldwide. URL: Agoda Affiliate Program

Dive into Kayak, a comprehensive travel search engine that scours hundreds of travel sites to fetch you the best deals. Whether it’s flights, hotels, or car rentals, Kayak ensures you’re well-equipped for your next adventure. Plus, with its price forecast tool, you can predict the best time to book. URL: Kayak Affiliate Program

Experience the world like never before with Viator. It offers many tours, activities, and experiences worldwide, making your travels memorable. From skip-the-line tickets to expert local guides, they’ve got your next adventure covered. URL: Viator Affiliate Program

GetYourGuide

Turn your trips into extraordinary experiences with GetYourGuide. Discover and book top attractions, tours, and activities in destinations around the world. With easy-to-use mobile tickets, free cancellation, and personal customer service, your journey is bound to be unforgettable. URL: GetYourGuide Affiliate Program

Embark on a unique road trip with RVshare, the largest RV rental marketplace. Whether you’re looking for luxury motorhomes or affordable pop-ups, RVshare connects you with the perfect vehicle for your adventure. With thousands of 5-star reviews and 24/7 roadside assistance, your journey is in safe hands. URL: RVshare Affiliate Program

Your one-stop travel solution, Expedia, offers many options, from vacation homes to flights. Bundle your stay with a car rental or flight and unlock even more significant savings. With user-friendly tools and extensive choices, Expedia ensures your dream vacation is just a click away. URL: Expedia Affiliate Program

Cabubble is the UK’s leading taxi and minicab booking platform, simplifying hiring a taxi or minicab. Its straightforward interface allows users to swiftly get quotes and book rides from trusted taxi and private hire operators. URL: Cabubble Affiliate Program

Traxo is a comprehensive travel data aggregator and itinerary management tool. Catering to businesses and individual travelers, it captures and organizes travel plans, ensuring users stay informed and organized. Their services extend to travel managers, offering insights to optimize travel programs. URL: Traxo Affiliate Program

ToursByLocals

ToursByLocals connects travelers with local guides in over 900 locations worldwide. With a focus on personalized experiences, the platform boasts over 30,000 available tours. Every manual is vetted, ensuring travelers receive an authentic and safe experience. URL: ToursByLocals Affiliate Program

Welcome Pickups

Welcome Pickups offers a holistic travel experience, starting when you land. They provide airport transfers with personalized, friendly drivers who offer insights and tips about the destination. Beyond transfers, Welcome Pickups also offers essential products, SIM cards, and skip-the-line tickets, ensuring a smooth travel experience. URL: Welcome Pickups Affiliate Program

HomeExchange

HomeExchange is the leading platform for home exchange vacations, boasting a vast community of over 150,000 subscribers from 145 countries. With over 270,000 homes and apartments available for exchange, members can travel more for less, experiencing destinations uniquely and authentically. The platform operates on an annual membership model, where, for the price of one night’s stay at a hotel, members can enjoy 12 months of unlimited exchanges. URL: HomeExchange Affiliate Program

As we pack up this list, remember that the world of travel is as vast as the destinations it encompasses.

You’re earning and enriching countless travel tales by partnering with the best affiliate programs.

So, grab your virtual passport, explore these programs, and journey together through the lucrative world of travel affiliate marketing!

Travel affiliate programs are partnerships between travel service providers, such as airlines, hotels, or tour operators, and bloggers or influencers. In these collaborations, the blogger promotes specific travel services or packages, and they earn a commission for every booking, sign-up, or action generated through their referral.

Travel is a passion for many, and with the increasing number of travelers seeking unique experiences and deals, there’s a continuous demand for trusted travel recommendations. This makes the travel niche exciting and profitable for affiliates, especially as the travel industry rebounds post-pandemic.

Earnings can differ based on the program and the specific travel service promoted. Some offer a percentage of the booking fee, while others provide a flat fee for every reservation, package, or service sold. It’s essential to understand each program’s terms to gauge potential earnings.

Certainly! While having some travel experience can be beneficial, many programs offer affiliates the necessary promotional tools, resources, and training, ensuring that even those new to the travel world can effectively promote the offerings.

Consider factors like commission rates, cookie duration, the reputation of the travel brand or provider, and the quality of promotional materials. Ensure the services or packages align with your audience’s travel interests and preferences.

Promoting travel services requires authenticity and transparency. Always provide accurate information about the travel deals, destinations, and terms. Avoid making any unrealistic promises or guarantees about travel experiences.

Most programs use tracking cookies to monitor users who click on your affiliate link. When the user takes a specific action, such as booking a hotel or purchasing a tour package, the system credits you with the sale, leading to your commission.

Yes, promoting various programs can diversify your content and income streams. However, ensure the services or packages you promote are complementary and cater to your audience’s diverse travel interests.

While a specialized platform can be beneficial, many programs also accept affiliates who use other channels like social media, podcasts, or YouTube to promote their travel offerings.

Begin by researching and identifying programs that resonate with your interests and your audience’s travel preferences. Once you’ve chosen a program, sign up, access the promotional tools, and integrate them into your content. Monitor your results, refine your strategies, and stay updated with travel trends and insights for continued success.

Science & Technology Geek – Linkub Co-Founder – Talks About #Science, #SaaS, #AI, #Marketing, and #Entrepeneurship

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15 Best Travel Affiliate Programs to Explore

Posted by Lindsay Pietroluongo , in Affiliate Programs

1.2 Booking.com
1.3 CruiseDirect
1.4 Discover Cars
1.5 Expedia
1.6 G Adventures
1.7 Go City
1.9 Plum Guide
1.11 SafetyWing
1.12 Take Walks
1.13 Travelpayouts
1.14 Tripadvisor
1.15 Trusted Housesitters
2 Final Thoughts About Travel Affiliate Programs

If you run a travel website or you’re an influencer in the travel niche, you probably want affiliate marketing to become one of your income streams. There are travel affiliate programs out there to suit every type of content creator, whether you post about deals, help people plan their vacations, or focus on activities at top destinations.

15 Best Travel Affiliate Programs to Consider Joining

The following travel affiliate programs include some of the biggest marketplaces and search engines in the niche, and there are also smaller, more specific brands represented. Whether you focus on hometown or international travel, cities or cruises, or even travel safety, there are options here for you.

The online travel agency Agoda mainly serves people in the Asia-Pacific area. Its booking services include flights and other types of transportation, lodging, and vacation activities.

Its affiliate program pays a commission of around 5%, and you can calculate your expected earnings on the website.

Agoda’s app, website and promotions come in 38 languages, so you can target an international audience.

Booking.com

Booking.com is one of the leading online travel agencies, helping travelers book flights, hotels, car rentals, group transportation and attractions. Its affiliate program pays a commission every time a booking is made through your link. Unfortunately, information about commission rate and cookie duration isn’t provided.

CruiseDirect

CruiseDirect is an online cruise travel agent that offers vacation financing via Uplift, plus price-matching and price-locking.

Its affiliate program pays a 3% commission on every purchase, and the company provides promotional banners to help with conversions. The cookie duration is 45 days, and the weekly newsletter for affiliates can include bonus commission offers.

Discover Cars

Discover Cars is an online car rental service, and its affiliate program has one of the longest cookie durations you’ll come across at 365 days.

The commission structure is 70% on car rental profits and 30% on Full Coverage. The website says that totals approximately $20 per booking.

A commission example for travel affiliate programs.

The Discover Cars affiliate program offers a lot of help to marketers, too. You can use the brand’s banners, generate a landing page or add a widget to your website.

Expedia is one of the leading travel deals and booking websites around. Users can make reservations for rental cars, lodging, and flights, plus cruises and activities.

The Expedia Group Affiliate Program pays up to a 6% commission on qualifying sales. Marketers can use branded banners, links and search widgets to promote travel services.

The website doesn’t state the cookie duration, but sources say that it ranges from 7 to 30 days depending on the travel brand you’re promoting.

G Adventures

G Adventures is an adventure travel company that offers expeditions, safaris and tours for small groups.

Its affiliate program is offered through Commission Junction (CJ), and the “typical” commission is 6% for confirmed sales. The cookie duration is 90 days.

G Adventures also states that it provides marketers with display ads, marketing copy and an XML feed, as well as regular promotions.

Go City is a per-city pass (available in 25 cities worldwide) that helps you plan and manage your trip while also getting you access to local activities and attractions.

The Go City affiliate program offers “competitive” commissions, which are actually difficult to narrow down to a specific number. However, online sources put it at or around 6%. The cookie duration is an extra-long 90 days, which gives people lots of time to finalize travel plans.

Kayak is a travel-focused search engine that’s available as a website and mobile app. Users can search for flights, lodging and rental cars, and they can also read user reviews to learn about the experiences of other travelers.

The Kayak affiliate program lets marketers earn from ad revenue, bookings and clicks for cars, flights, hotels and vacation packages. Commission can be as high as 50%. While the website doesn’t state the cookie duration, online sources say it’s 30 days.

Marketers will be able to use Kayak deep links, a search box, widgets and more.

Plum Guide is a home-stay booking service (similar to Airbnb) that focuses on high-quality, luxury properties.

Its affiliate program , which is run through Partnerize , offers a 7% commission on every sale. While its cookie duration isn’t disclosed on the website, online sources claim it’s 90 days.

REI is an outdoor clothing and gear brand for adventurers. You can also rent gear, attend events, take classes and more with REI.

Its affiliate program is run through AvantLink and lets marketers earn money from REI.com and REI Outlet sales. According to an online search, the REI affiliate program commission rate is 5% and the cookie duration is 15 days.

SafetyWing offers Nomad Insurance, which is medical insurance for global travelers that can be used when they’re away from their home country.

The SafetyWing Ambassador program has some of the best affiliate marketing terms you’ll find. You’ll get 10% commission on sales, and the cookie duration is 364 days.

A breakdown of earning potential from an affiliate program.

Plus, since SafetyWing can insure travelers who are already abroad, you can continue marketing to people who are mid-trip. Also, the website says that more than 70% of signups are for a monthly subscription, and you can earn on renewals for up to one year.

Take Walks offers day trips and tours to travelers in cities worldwide. The affiliate program pays a 15% commission on all bookings, but the cookie duration is not disclosed.

To encourage your audience to sign up for a Take Walks experience, affiliates can offer skip-the-line access.

Travelpayouts

Travelpayouts is an affiliate marketing platform for travel-focused content creators. You’ll sign up to work with the travel brands you love (Travelpayouts has 120 of them), then use available affiliate tools to enhance your content and promote travel services.

The commission payout and cookie duration depend on the brand you choose, and you can explore them all in the brand directory . Some commissions are low at around 4%, while others are as high as 50%. There are also brands that offer fixed payouts.

Cookie duration varies, too, sometimes being as short as 1 day and other times lasting for a full year.

Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor is a travel research website that aggregates ratings and reviews from travelers. You can find information about activities, destinations, lodging, restaurants and more with Tripadvisor.

The Tripadvisor Affiliate Program offers a minimum commission of 50% for hotel bookings, and you can also get paid for clicks even if they don’t result in bookings. The cookie duration is 14 days.

Trusted Housesitters

Trusted Housesitters pairs travelers with pet sitters (and vice versa) when planning a trip. Pet parents and sitters can sign up for annual plans that include background checks, video calls and liability protection.

The company’s affiliate program offers up to a 40% commission when a user signs up for an account. The cookie duration is 30 days.

Final Thoughts About Travel Affiliate Programs

Travel affiliate programs can supplement your income — or even replace it — by connecting your audience with the services they want most. Trip planning can be exhausting, and so many of these travel affiliate programs focus on making the process more convenient and less expensive for consumers.

That likely aligns with your goals, too, and with so many affiliate programs covering every aspect of travel, you won’t have trouble monetizing your site.

If you’re in the website-building stage, check out our article about creating niche websites .

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12 Best Affiliate Travel Programs For New Travel Bloggers Just Starting Out

Post category: Blogging / Travel Blog

Nowadays there are affiliate travel programs for almost any product, service, or membership!

Finding the best affiliate travel programs can be difficult because what works for one blogger, might not work for the next.

To make it as a travel blogger in 2022, you have to do things very differently than you would of 5 years ago.

It’s not enough to have an inspirational travel blog, there already millions of those, with more being created every single day.

If you haven’t started a blog, but are thinking about it, make sure to check out these 8 important questions to ask yourself before starting a blog .

What Are Affiliate Travel Programs?

If the term ‘affiliate’ isn’t something you’d know off the top of your head, that’s okay. I don’t think most people would use it in their day-to-day lives!

You might have heard that a sports star is ‘affiliated’ with Nike, which might help you to know that it just means there is a connection.

Being an ‘affiliate’ for a company is similar. If a blogger applies to an affiliate travel program, you are not an employee, but you do enter into an agreement with the company.

It means that you will recommend their product or service to your audience through a trackable link.

This means the company will get traffic from your blog, where some readers might even end up making a purchase.

They will know the purchase came from your blog because of the unique link. The company will then give you a commission based on the sale that was made.

Best Affiliate Programs For Travel Bloggers Just Starting Out

Since global tourism made 2.9 trillion U.S. dollars in 2019 , it’s safe to say it’s one of the biggest industries in the world.

The plethora of travel affiliate programs to choose from can actually be overwhelming, especially as a travel blogger just starting out!

As a new travel blogger myself, I’ve tried out quite a few of what some big bloggers consider as the ‘best affiliate programs for travel’.

The problem with these programs is that they don’t work very well with new blogs anymore.

I’ve found that people are tired of reading the same old travel guides with generic information and recommendations that you can find almost anywhere online.

Those might have cut it back in the day, but not in 2022.

Many are looking for out-of-the-box travel ideas like hidden places to go and different ways to travel!

This is what I try to focus on, so I can bring new and relevant suggestions to my audience.

I don’t claim that the list below has the best affiliate travel programs for every single blogger, because that would be impossible.

These affiliate travel programs are just the ones that work well for me!

Need some tips on how to choose between programs?

Scroll down to 3 tips on how to pick the best affiliate travel programs as a new travel blogger .

Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links that will cost you nothing extra but offer me a little commission for any purchases made. These commissions help me continue to offer helpful tips. Thank you so much for your support.

Travel Accommodation

One of the most important parts of traveling is where you are going to stay. Your travel accommodation can make or break your trip!

Since it’s one of the biggest travel expenses too, it’s a huge aspect when planning a trip or getaway.

My audience on maptrekking loves to hear about alternatives to hotels, so that is a large part of my content.

Here are my best affiliate travel programs for accommodation.

1. Trustedhousesitters

Trustedhousesitters is the world’s largest platform for housesitting. It has more house sits than all other housesitting sites in the world.

I recommend Trustedhousesitters because it’s a way to stay in local neighborhoods, save money when traveling, and gives the opportunity to have a unique, slow travel experience .

This is one of the best affiliate travel programs I’ve tried!

Not only does my audience respond well to learning about an alternative travel accommodation, but the program gives a 50 cent commission for every free account that is made.

This is an amazing aspect because I’ve never seen any other affiliate travel programs give anything for people making free accounts.

Of course, you get a better commission (20%) if someone purchases a 1-year membership, but they start at €99+.

Since it’s a bigger purchase, fewer people tend to upgrade their free account.

If you’re interested in joining the Trustedhousesitters affiliate travel program, they are on Impact .

2. Worldpackers

Worldpackers is a work exchange site that enables you to volunteer around the world in exchange for free accommodation (and sometimes other perks like food, free tours, etc).

A 1-year membership fee is $49 and if your readers sign up through your affiliate link, they get $10 (USD) off and you get a $10 commission. That’s a 20% commission rate!

If you are interested in trying it out, sign up for Worldpackers with my link or use my Worldpackers promo code, MAPTREKKING .

I was invited into the Worldpackers affiliate program, so if you are wanting to join, I’d recommend emailing [email protected] to inquire.

3. Workaway

Workaway is another work exchange site that is similar to Worldpackers. The main difference is that Workaway has 50,000+ hosts around the world, while Worldpackers has almost 10,000.

A Workaway affiliate program has been recently started, but I think it is by invite only. I received an invitation to join, so now I receive $4 for every sign-up.

If you’d like to inquire, I’d recommend emailing [email protected] .

If you’re not able to join, you can sign up for Workaway and then get a ‘refer a friend’ link. This means you can invite people to become a Workawayer or Workaway host.

The Workawayer will get 1 month of free membership (Workaway hosts don’t pay a fee so they don’t get anything) and you get 3 months of free membership added to your account as well!

Since I am an official affiliate, when you sign up with my link, you receive 3 months of free Workaway , instead of only 1!

4. Homestay.com

Homestay is basically an Airbnb alternative that focuses on staying in a local’s home with locals.

Airbnb used to be like this but has turned into a site to simply rent accommodation, whereas Homestay offers more of a cultural immersion experience.

I use the ‘refer a friend’ link on my personal Homestay account so my readers can get €20 off their first booking , and I also get €20 of free credit!

Also, if someone signs up to be a host with my link, I get €80 of free credit after they have their first guest!

I am a part of the Homestay.com affiliate program too so I can get a 30% commission when people book a homestay through my affiliate link.

You can sign up for their program directly on Homestay.com .

5. Booking.com

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, Booking.com doesn’t need an introduction!

Though it doesn’t fit that well with my slow travel niche, sometimes do need to use Booking links here and there.

Honestly, my audience responds a lot better to Trustedhousesitters and work exchange sites!

The affiliate program isn’t too revolutionary. It has a 4% commission that you receive after the stay has been completed. You can join the program on Awin (it is pretty difficult to be accepted as an affiliate directly with Booking).

With whatever travel niche you decide to do, you should be able to do guides on what travel gear to purchase. If your blog is all about hiking, you make winter hiking gear, summer hiking gear, etc.

As an example, a lot of my content involves traveling slowly, so I put together an amazing packing list for long-term travel .

Here are some of the best affiliate travel programs for travel gear.

6. SafetyWing

Now if you are creating a travel blog around being a digital nomad and long-term travel, SafetyWing is the perfect insurance provider.

They have travel medical insurance coverage that works well for general traveling but also those that are location-independent.

SafetyWing was created by people who are nomads themselves. They wanted to create reliable and flexible insurance that covers online freelancers, entrepreneurs, remote companies, etc.

They have also expanded to be able to offer comprehensive health insurance !

Besides all of the amazing innovations I spoke about above, SafetyWing also has a very sleek affiliate program portal. It’s easy and functional, which makes a world of difference.

They offer a 10% commission too. If you become a SafetyWing affiliate with my referral link , you will get a $100 bonus when you make your first sale and $500 bonus after 5 sales!

As a travel blog that tries to promote sustainability and responsible travel, it can be difficult to create travel gear or gift guides.

I try to encourage people to buy local souvenirs (ones that are actually made locally) to support the local economy.

Of course, I do still need to suggest items available online.

Not only is it the most accessible way for people to find the right gear, but it helps us out with a little bit of extra income.

If you don’t know already, Etsy is an online store where people can list everything under the sun. It is most known for having homemade/handmade products!

This is great because it allows you to support small businesses all over the world, and you get really unique products.

They also offer a 5% commission. You can join the Etsy affiliate program on Awin here!

best affiliate programs for travel bloggers

8. Amazon Associates

Even though recommending travel gear through a company like Amazon isn’t my favorite thing to do, the hard reality is that a majority of people prefer it.

Amazon commission rates can vary depending on what category it’s in, like shoes or electronics.

The nice thing is that if someone purchases one item that you recommend, you get a commission from everything else that they purchase with it!

Check out the Amazon affiliate program here.

Travel Experiences

There as so many different travel affiliate programs for finding unique experiences. Here are some of the best affiliate travel programs for immersive travel experiences.

Eatwith is an online platform that has unique food experiences.

Usually, the food experiences go along the lines of visiting a local market for fresh ingredients before being taught how to make traditional food in a local’s home.

These are great for me to promote since the experiences give direct business to the locals rather than huge international tour companies!

You can join their affiliate program on the Awin network .

Best affiliate travel programs for new bloggers

Another massive travel platform is Viator. They have good name recognition which makes sense because they have thousands of travel experiences all over the world.

My favorite part of being in the Viator affiliate travel program is that I can put a customizable widget in my articles.

This means I can choose what I want to show to my audience, which is perfect because I like to pick out experiences that are run by locals!

Their commission is 8% through the Viator affiliate program . If you aren’t accepted, try joining on Awin network or ShareASale (it’s a 4% commission though).

Travel Affiliate Networks

Signing up for affiliate travel programs isn’t always as simple as going onto a company’s general website.

Many companies will have their separate affiliate portal or even go through affiliate networks. Affiliate networks act as the ‘middle man’ between you (the affiliate) and the company.

Though it might seem ridiculous to have a middle man, it can actually make things a lot easier for you.

Affiliate networks can have hundreds and sometimes thousands of companies on their network.

If you are planning to apply to multiple affiliate travel programs, then you can do it all in one place.

Some travel affiliates will make you jump through a bunch of hoops to apply, so the perks of being on a network are that you only have to do that once when you apply for a network account.

Plus, if you are trying to generate affiliate links from different companies to insert into a blog post, it is extremely helpful to only have to login into one account to get them!

affiliate travel programs for new bloggers

Since Awin has many companies that I love on its network, it makes it incredibly convenient to generate links. In just their travel category alone, they have 745 companies!

Many of the affiliate travel programs I talked about earlier are on Awin like Trustedhousesitters, Booking.com, Etsy, and Tripadvisor.

12. ShareASale

This is a smaller affiliate network that was acquired by Awin. ShareASale has a lot of great companies that you can be a part of, with over a hundred in the travel category.

How To Pick The Best Affiliate Travel Programs As A New Travel Blogger

Many blogging articles on affiliate marketing claim that it’s the key to becoming a big-time blogger.

They talk about how they made thousands in income through people clicking on their links to purchase a product or service.

Most of the time what they fail to mention is that it doesn’t happen overnight.

They’ve probably been blogging for years so they will have grown a large audience and a website with high authority.

The reality for new bloggers (like you and me), is that I don’t have those things (yet).

Plus, growing a faithful blog audience and building a high authority website in 2022 is very different from when the now big bloggers started out like 5 to 10 years ago.

Learn how to build your website’s authority through SEO !

Here are some essential tips for new bloggers to remember as they are searching for affiliate travel programs to join.

Stay True To Your Niche

Like I’ve mentioned before, having a general travel blog won’t cut it in today’s world. It is imperative that you choose to have a niche within the travel industry.

On Maptrekking, I focus on helping travelers slow down to be immersed in local culture.

I talk about different ways to do this, like finding alternative travel accommodation or volunteering with work exchanges.

My goal is to become an authority in slow travel so if someone wants to learn how to have deeper travel experiences, they think of my site!

Of course, when you have a specific niche, it limits what affiliate travel programs you can use.

As an example, I promote slow travel because it is a way to limit your negative tourism footprint – while still getting to see the world and have unique experiences.

Slow traveling means things like taking transport that’s better for the environment and supporting the local economy by eating at local restaurants and staying in local accommodation.

Hopefully, it makes sense why it would be quite backward of me to then be a part of huge hotel travel affiliate programs.

I can’t say that you should slow travel but then promote stays at massive hotels and resorts (these don’t support the local economy at all).

Start Small To Avoid Being Overwhelmed

Even if you have a ton of different affiliate travel programs to choose from that also fit in your niche, it’s important to start small!

Think about the very best travel affiliate programs that would fit with your niche, that you are passionate about, and that you’ve (preferably) used in the past.

Only apply for like 3 of these at first so you don’t get overwhelmed. Applying for programs can take work to set up initially, so setting up 20 different affiliate travel programs would be a lot of effort.

By only having a few of the best affiliate travel programs that suit your niche and passions, you get the hang of affiliate marketing without being overwhelmed by being involved in 20 programs.

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Having only a few programs can also be helpful to plan your content around whether a post will be more of an affiliate post or informational post.

What I mean, is that before you start writing, you should know the goal of your post.

Is it to simply inform your reader about a topic? This would probably have only a few affiliate links if any at all.

Or is it to help the reader make a hard decision to purchase something? This would be like comparing two different types of travel insurance.

Whereas if you are a part of tons of different programs, it can be hard to choose what to focus on.

Plus, putting affiliate links into your content can take time to get used to since you want to learn to do it as naturally as possible.

It’s better to have fewer links/fewer programs since you don’t know how your audience will respond yet. In the beginning, less is more!

Focus On Unique, Informative Content

The reality of making money from travel affiliate programs is that it’s based on how many people read your articles.

I don’t think I understood this when I first started out. For some reason, I thought if I put affiliate links into my article, many people would click on them.

Now that I’ve been around the block a time or two, I realize that a very small percentage of readers will click on a link - and then an even smaller percentage of those people will actually make a purchase.

So it just makes sense that the more readers you have, the more chance that you could make something.

This is why it’s important to not get caught up in the fact that you aren’t making ‘thousands’ like the big bloggers claim to be making.

Instead, focus on helping your readers by answering questions in your niche - ones that no one else is answering!

Making unique and informative posts will help your blog stand out and build trust with your audience.

Then as you place affiliate links within the article naturally, you’ll have a higher success rate of people taking your advice to buy or purchase. Remember, people buy from those they trust!

Final Thoughts

Finding the best affiliate travel programs that fit your blog specifically is so important.

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54 Top Weekend Trips from San Jose, California – A Getaway Guide

By Chirasree Banerjee

Last Updated On April 15, 2023

In United States

San Jose is the third-largest city in California, in the heart of Silicon Valley. It is a vibrant hub of technology, culture, and outdoor adventure.

From the iconic Winchester Mystery House to the bustling San Pedro Square Market, there is no shortage of things to do and see in San Jose , the bustling city.

However, sometimes you need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the beauty of Northern California . That’s where this ultimate guide for weekend getaways from San Jose comes in!

Weekend trips are a great way to recharge, explore new places, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the 50 top weekend trips within a three to five hour drive from San Jose, covering the best weekend getaways in Northern California.

The destinations featured in this guide include everything from romantic coastal towns to bustling cities , from relaxing wine-country vacations to scenic drives and redwood hikes .

So pack your bags, grab your friends or family, and get ready to hit the road! Adventure awaits as you explore the top weekend getaways from San Jose.

Map of 50 Top Weekend Getaways from San Jose

Best weekend trips from san jose (around a two-hour drive), top weekend trips from san jose (around a three-hour drive), best weekend getaways from san jose (around a five-hour drive), long weekend getaways from san jose (more than a five-hour drive), similar articles from travel realizations.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Looking for a quick escape to recharge and reduce stress?

The best weekend trips from San Jose, all within a two-hour drive, offer a change of scene without extensive planning.

Maximize your time by exploring new places, trying new activities, and indulging in local cuisine.

Spend quality time with loved ones and create lasting memories, making it perfect for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family vacation.

Consider staying for the weekend to fully experience all that these destinations have to offer.

Travel Tip: While it’s possible to explore and enjoy the destinations within a two-hour drive from San Jose in a day , it’s important to note that you may not have enough time to fully experience everything that they have to offer.

Rushing from one place to another to tick off a list of activities can leave you feeling overwhelmed and exhausted, defeating the purpose of the getaway.

On the other hand, taking the time to slow down and spend a weekend in these destinations allows you to truly soak up the atmosphere, take part in activities that you may not have otherwise had the time to do, and explore the local culture and scenery at a leisurely pace.

So, while a day trip may be a tempting option, it’s worth considering spending a weekend in these destinations to fully immerse yourself in the experience

1. Santa Cruz

Distance from San Jose: 38 minutes, 32 miles

54 Top Weekend Trips from San Jose, California - A Getaway Guide, Travel Realizations

Nestled along the picturesque Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz is a vibrant coastal city brimming with natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and laid-back charm.

From the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk to the towering redwoods of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, this city has something for everyone.

With a vibrant local culture, stunning beaches, world-class cuisine, and endless opportunities for outdoor exploration, Santa Cruz is the perfect weekend getaway to soak up the sun, surf and unwind in a picturesque coastal paradise.

Top 5 Things to Do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: A classic amusement park with rides, games, and attractions for all ages.
West Cliff Drive: A scenic oceanside walk with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Cruz coastline.
Natural Bridges State Beach: A beautiful beach with natural rock formations and a natural bridge.
Mystery Spot: A gravity-defying attraction where the laws of physics seem to be distorted.
Santa Cruz Wharf: A popular spot for fishing, seafood dining, and souvenir shopping.

READ MORE: 51 Top Things to Do in Santa Cruz, California

Where to Stay in Santa Cruz

The Inn at Pasatiempo

Pacific Blue Inn

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

2. Monterey

Distance from San Jose: 1 hour and 20 minutes, 72 miles

Monterey is a picturesque coastal town with a mix of history, outdoor activities, and stunning scenery.

The town is home to the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium , a must-visit for anyone interested in marine life.

You can also take a stroll along Cannery Row, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and galleries housed in the historic buildings that once served the sardine canning industry.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, where you can hike trails with views of the Pacific Ocean and explore the tide pools.

Top 5 Things to Do in Monterey

Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium
Explore Cannery Row
Go whale watching
Explore Old Fisherman’s Wharf
Visit Monterey State Historic Park

READ MORE: 50 Top things to do in Monterey, California – The Ultimate Bucket

Where to Stay in Monterey

Arbor Inn Monterey

InterContinental The Clement Monterey

Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

Portola Hotel & Spa

3. Carmel-by-the-Sea

Distance from San Jose: 1 hour 30 minutes, 75 miles

Enveloped in a dreamy, storybook ambiance, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming coastal village set along the breathtaking Monterey Peninsula.

With its white sandy beaches, unique architecture, and rich artistic heritage, this enchanting destination offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

From strolling through the quaint streets lined with art galleries and boutique shops to savoring exquisite gourmet meals, Carmel-by-the-Sea provides an idyllic setting for a romantic weekend getaway or a peaceful retreat amidst natural beauty.

It is one of the best places for a weekend getaway from San Jose, California.

Top 5 Things to Do in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Take a stroll on the Carmel Beach
Visit Carmel Mission
Enjoy a super scenic drive on the 17-Mile drive
Explore Fairytale Cottages in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Take a leisurely stroll down Ocean Avenue

READ MORE: 40 Top things to do in Carmel, California – The Ultimate Bucket List

Where to Stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Hofsas House Hotel (Read my detailed review )

Tradewinds Carmel

Carmel Garden Inn

Distance from San Jose: 1 hour 44 minutes, 99 miles

Perched along the dramatic Central California coastline, Big Sur is an awe-inspiring region characterized by its rugged cliffs, lush forests, and unspoiled natural beauty.

This stunning stretch of coast offers a serene escape for those seeking adventure and tranquility in a breathtaking setting.

From the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge to the enchanting forests of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Big Sur is a haven for nature enthusiasts, artists, and wanderers alike.

With miles of scenic trails, pristine beaches, and an array of unique accommodations, Big Sur is the ideal destination for an unforgettable weekend getaway, surrounded by the wild beauty of the California coast.

Top 5 Things to Do in Big Sur

Enjoy the panoramic views from the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge
Explore Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Visit Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, home to the breathtaking McWay Falls, an 80-foot waterfall that cascades onto a secluded beach.
Visit Nepenthe, A restaurant and café with stunning ocean views.
Explore Point Sur State Historic Park, featuring a historic lighthouse

READ MORE: 52 Top Things to Do in Big Sur, California – A Guide

Where to Stay in Big Sur

Big Sur Lodge

Big Sur River Inn

Ventana Big Sur (Adult only)

Travel Tip: Looking to explore the stunning Pacific Coast without the hassle of driving? Consider the Big Sur Monterey California Coast McWay Falls private tour from San Jose.

Enjoy the convenience of round-trip transfers in a comfortable air-conditioned SUV or sedan. Your personal driver-guide not only ensures a safe journey but also enriches your experience with local insights.

5. Pinnacles National Park

Distance from San Jose: 1 hour 30 minutes, 80 miles

Postcards from Pinnacles National Park, Travel Realizations,

Pinnacles National Park is located in the heart of central California, featuring striking rock formations, intricate cave systems, and diverse flora and fauna.

This is one of the lesser-known national parks in California and provides a unique outdoor experience for adventurers seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination.

From challenging hikes with breathtaking vistas to exploring the mysterious Talus Caves, Pinnacles National Park offers an array of outdoor activities that cater to nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

With its otherworldly landscapes, vibrant wildflowers, and opportunities for wildlife spotting, Pinnacles National Park is an ideal weekend escape to immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of California’s wilderness.

Top 5 Things to Do in Pinnacles National Park

Hike the High Peaks Trail: A challenging hike offering stunning views of the park’s unique rock formations and landscapes.
Explore Talus Caves: Explore the park’s intriguing cave systems, home to a colony of Townsend’s big-eared bats. Condor Gulch Trail: A moderate hike providing excellent opportunities for spotting the endangered California condor.
Hike to Bear Gulch Reservoir: A picturesque reservoir surrounded by impressive rock formations, accessible via hiking trails.
Participate in Ranger-led Programs: Participate in guided hikes and talks to learn more about the park’s geology, history, and wildlife.

READ MORE: Best Things to do in Pinnacles National Park, California!

Where to Stay near Pinnacles National Park

Keefers Inn King City

Best Western Park Crest Inn is one hour drive from Pinnacles National Park. You can enjoy beautiful Monterey and explore Monterey Bay Aquarium if you have time.

6. San Francisco

Distance from San Jose: 1 hour, 48 miles

A cosmopolitan city renowned for its iconic landmarks , diverse neighborhoods, and rich history, San Francisco offers an unforgettable experience for travelers.

From the majestic Golden Gate Bridge to the bustling streets of Chinatown, this captivating city has something for everyone(including many free things to do ).

With its stunning vistas, world-class dining, and vibrant arts scene , San Francisco is a perfect weekend destination for culture enthusiasts, science museum lovers, foodies, and history buffs alike.

READ: A guide to the 20 Best Golden Gate Bridge Vista Points in San Francisco

Top 5 Things to Do in San Francisco

Admire the Golden Gate Bridge: An iconic symbol of the city, offering breathtaking views and picturesque walking paths within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
Wander Lombard Street: Visit the famous crooked street, known for its steep hairpin turns and beautiful gardens.
Explore Fisherman’s Wharf: A bustling waterfront area with seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and street performers.
Stroll through Golden Gate Park: A sprawling urban park featuring gardens, museums, and various recreational activities.
California Academy of Sciences: A world-class science museum featuring an aquarium, planetarium, and rainforest exhibit.

READ MORE: Discover 80 Best Non-Touristy Things to Do in San Francisco

Where to Stay in San Francisco

Hotel Drisco

Argonaut Hotel

Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf

Hotel Zephyr

7. Mill Valley

Distance from San Jose: 1 hour 20 minutes, 66 miles

Nestled at the foot of Mount Tamalpais, Mill Valley is a picturesque town surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and scenic vistas.

With its charming downtown area, rich arts scene, and close proximity to numerous outdoor attractions, Mill Valley offers an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Top 5 Things to Do in Mill Valley

Explore Mount Tamalpais State Park: A beautiful park offering panoramic views, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
Muir Woods National Monument : A serene park featuring ancient redwood trees and tranquil walking paths.
Old Mill Park: A lovely park with redwoods, a playground, and a historic mill.
Downtown Mill Valley: A charming area with unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
Cascade Falls: A picturesque waterfall located within a short hike from the town.
Read my complete guide to 35 Top Things to Do in Mill Valley, California

READ MORE: Best Trails in Muir Woods National Monument: A Guide

Where to Stay in Mill Valley Mill Valley Inn

Holiday Inn Express Mill Valley

Mill Valley Inn

Acqua Hotel

8. Point Reyes National Seashore

Distance from San Jose: 2 hours 10 minutes, 88 miles

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chirasree Banerjee | SF Bay Area, CA (@travelrealizations)

A stunning coastal wilderness area located along the California coast, Point Reyes National Seashore offers visitors the chance to explore the rugged coastline, diverse wildlife, and pristine beaches.

With its dramatic landscapes and numerous hiking trails, this national seashore is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Top 5 Things to Do in Point Reyes National Seashore

Visit Point Reyes Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse offering sweeping ocean views and whale watching opportunities.
Explore Tomales Bay: A scenic bay known for its oyster farms, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
Visit Drakes Beach: A beautiful sandy beach with striking cliffs and abundant marine life.
Hike the Chimney Rock Trail: A scenic trail offering panoramic views of the coastline and a chance to spot elephant seals.
Visit Bear Valley Visitor Center: A great starting point for exploring the park, with exhibits, maps, and ranger-led programs.

READ MORE: 50 Top Things To Do in Point Reyes, California

Where to Stay near Point Reyes National Seashore

Olema House at Point Reyes

Wooded Inverness Escape – Walk to Beaches ! (Vacation home)

Hillside Home with Deck and Views of Tomales Bay ! (Vacation home)

9. Sausalito

Distance from San Jose: 1 hour 30 minutes, 60 miles

A picturesque bayside town just north of San Francisco, Sausalito offers stunning views of the city skyline, unique art galleries, and various waterfront dining options.

With its charming streets, Mediterranean-style architecture, and relaxed atmosphere, Sausalito is a perfect weekend destination for those seeking a tranquil coastal escape.

Top 5 Things to Do in Sausalito

Sausalito Boardwalk: A scenic waterfront promenade with beautiful views of San Francisco and the bay.
Check out the houseboats: You can also take a houseboat tour .
Visit the Bay Model Visitor Center ( Admission is free) – a unique opportunity to view the complete bay-delta system at a glance.
Bay Area Discovery Museum: A family-friendly museum featuring interactive exhibits and creative outdoor play areas.
Sausalito Art Galleries: Explore the town’s vibrant arts scene by visiting its numerous galleries and studios.

Where to Stay in Sausalito

Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa

Cavallo Point Lodge

The Gables Inn Sausalito

10. Napa Valley

Distance from San Jose: 2 hours 30 minutes, 94 miles

Napa Valley is a premier destination for wine enthusiasts and food lovers, renowned for its world-class wineries, scenic vineyards, and exceptional culinary scene.

With its stunning landscapes, charming towns, and luxurious spas, Napa Valley offers an indulgent and memorable weekend getaway.

Top 5 Things to Do in Napa Valley

Wine Tasting: Visit the region’s numerous wineries and tasting rooms to sample its world-famous wines.
Take a scenic drive – Drive along the Silverado Trail , which passes by many of the valley’s wineries and vineyards and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Napa Valley Wine Train: Enjoy a gourmet meal and stunning vineyard views aboard this historic train.
Hot Air Balloon Rides: Experience the beauty of Napa Valley from above during a sunrise hot air balloon flight featuring breathtaking views and majestic hot air balloons.
Oxbow Public Market: A bustling market featuring local produce, artisanal goods, and diverse dining options.

READ MORE: 55 Top things to do in Napa Valley Besides Wine Tasting

Where to Stay in Napa Valley

Silverado Resort and Spa

Vino Bello Resort

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Auberge Resorts Collection

11. Healdsburg in Sonoma County

Distance from San Jose: 2 hours 20 minutes, 120 miles

One of the charming wine country towns in the heart of Sonoma County, Healdsburg offers a delightful mix of gourmet dining, boutique shopping, and world-class wineries.

With its picturesque central plaza, historic architecture, and surrounding vineyards, Healdsburg is an idyllic destination for a relaxing weekend getaway .

Top 5 Things to Do in Healdsburg

Healdsburg Plaza: A vibrant town square featuring unique shops, art galleries, and fine dining options.
Wine Tasting: Explore the region’s diverse wineries and sample its acclaimed wines.
Russian River: Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or swimming in this scenic river nearby.
Healdsburg Museum: Discover the area’s history and culture through exhibits and artifacts.
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve: A serene park featuring ancient redwood trees and tranquil walking trails.

READ MORE: 16 Top Wine Country Getaways Near the San Francisco Bay Area – Sip, Savor, and Explore

Where to Stay in Healdsburg

Hotel Healdsburg

Harmon Guest House

12. Santa Rosa

Distance from San Jose: 1 hour 58 minutes, 106 miles

As the largest city in Sonoma County, Santa Rosa offers a diverse range of attractions, from historic sites and museums to outdoor recreation and a thriving culinary scene.

With its charming downtown area, beautiful parks, and proximity to numerous wineries, Santa Rosa is an excellent base for exploring California’s wine country .

Top 5 Things to Do in Santa Rosa

Luther Burbank Home & Gardens: Explore the historic home and gardens of the renowned horticulturist.
Charles M. Schulz Museum: Discover the life and work of the Peanuts creator at this fascinating museum.
Trione-Annadel State Park: A beautiful park featuring hiking trails, a lake, and abundant wildflowers in the spring.
Russian River Brewing Company: Taste the renowned craft beers at this popular local brewery.
Safari West: Experience a unique wildlife adventure at this African-style wildlife preserve.

Where to Stay in Santa Rosa

Vintners Resort

Hotel La Rose

Hilton Garden Inn Sonoma County Airport

13. San Ramon

Distance from San Jose: 54 minutes, 38 miles

Located in the San Ramon Valley, this family-friendly city offers a mix of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and shopping opportunities.

With its picturesque landscapes, beautiful parks, and a variety of dining options, San Ramon is a great destination for a relaxing weekend getaway.

Top 5 Things to Do in San Ramon

Las Trampas Regional Wilderness: Explore this beautiful park featuring hiking trails and stunning views of the valley.
Explore Forest Home Farms Historic Park & Museum: Discover the area’s agricultural history through exhibits and farm tours.
Visit the Blackhawk Museum: A Smithsonian affiliate museum that showcases some of the world’s most exotic cars.
Visit The O’Neill National Historic Site: learn about O’Neill’s life and works. Eugene O’Neill was a renowned American playwright who won the Nobel Prize in Literature and three Pulitzer Prizes.
City Center Bishop Ranch: Shop and dine at this upscale outdoor shopping center.

READ MORE: 21 Top Things to do in San Ramon, California

Where to Stay in San Ramon

San Ramon Marriott

Hyatt House San Ramon

Sonesta Select San Ramon

14. Berkeley

Distance from San Jose: 1 hour 14 minutes, 46 miles

Home to the prestigious University of California, Berkeley , this vibrant college town is known for its intellectual atmosphere, diverse dining scene, and abundant cultural attractions.

With its picturesque parks, historic architecture, and lively arts scene, Berkeley is an engaging destination for a weekend trip.

Top 5 Things to Do in Berkeley

UC Berkeley Campus: Tour the historic campus and visit its renowned museums and botanical garden.
Telegraph Avenue: Stroll this eclectic street filled with unique shops, cafes, and street vendors.
Tilden Regional Park: Enjoy hiking, picnicking, and scenic views at this expansive park.
Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive: Discover contemporary art and film at this innovative cultural institution.
Chez Panisse: Experience gourmet farm-to-table dining at this iconic Berkeley restaurant.

READ MORE: 31 Top things to do in Berkeley, California

Where to Stay in Berkeley

Claremont Club & Spa

Aiden by Best Western @ Berkeley

Hotel Shattuck Plaza

Graduate Berkeley

15. Half Moon Bay

Distance from San Jose: 45 minutes, 40 miles

📍Cowell-Purisma Coastal Trail – A beautiful and easy hike near Half Moon Bay, California.

A charming coastal town nestled along the scenic California coast , Half Moon Bay offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

With its picturesque beaches, quaint downtown area, and various outdoor activities, Half Moon Bay is an ideal weekend destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Top 5 Things to Do in Half Moon Bay

Relax at Half Moon Bay State Beach: Unwind on the beautiful sandy beaches and enjoy beachcombing, fishing, and picnicking.
Visit the beautiful Seal Cove Cypress Tree Tunnel – a hidden gem: Take a romantic walk through the beautiful Seal Cove Cypress Tree Tunnel in Moss Beach, admiring the stunning natural surroundings. This is one of the Super scenic Cypress Trees and Tunnels near San Francisco that I visit often.
Pillar Point Harbor: A picturesque harbor offering fishing, boating, and fresh seafood dining options.
Take a romantic hike along the Cowell-Purisima Trail, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Mavericks Beach: Visit the famous surf spot known for its massive waves and stunning coastal views.
Attend the Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Festival : This annual event, one of my favorite Halloween celebrations in the Bay Area , is perfect for families and people of all ages to enjoy during the autumn season.

READ MORE: 46 Top Things to Do in Half Moon Bay, California

Where to Stay in Half Moon Bay

Seal Cove Inn

Harbor View Inn

Cypress Inn on Miramar Beach

The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay

16. Pescadero

Distance from San Jose: 1 hour 5 minutes, 58 miles

Pescadero is a small town in San Mateo County located just 30 minutes south of Half Moon Bay and is known for its charming bed and breakfasts and close proximity to Pigeon Point Light Station.

Nestled between the rugged coastal cliffs and the bright blue Pacific, Pescadero offers an idyllic backdrop for a romantic escape .

Top 5 Things to Do in Pescadero

Pescadero State Beach: A beautiful, rugged beach with tide pools, dramatic cliffs, and sandy shores.
Butano State Park: A serene park featuring towering redwoods, hiking trails, and a peaceful creek.
Pigeon Point Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse offering stunning ocean views and a small museum.
Visit the beautiful Año Nuevo State Park
Harley Farms Goat Dairy: Tour this award-winning goat farm and sample their delicious artisanal cheeses.
Duarte’s Tavern: Enjoy fresh seafood and famous artichoke soup at this classic Pescadero restaurant.

Where to Stay near Pescadero

HI Pigeon Point Lighthouse Hostel

Pescadero Creek Inn

17. Stockton

Distance from San Jose: 1 hour 23 minutes, 75 miles

Located in the heart of California’s Central Valley, Stockton offers visitors a mix of cultural attractions, historic sites, and outdoor recreation.

With its vibrant downtown area, beautiful parks, and diverse dining options, Stockton is an excellent destination for a weekend trip.

Top 5 Things to Do in Stockton

The Haggin Museum: Explore art and local history at this engaging museum.
Bob Hope Theatre: Catch a live performance or film screening at this historic venue.
Stockton Marina: Stroll along the waterfront, rent a boat, or dine at nearby restaurants.
Children’s Museum of Stockton: A family-friendly museum offering interactive exhibits and play areas.
Micke Grove Regional Park: Enjoy picnicking, walking trails, and a small zoo at this lovely park.
Visit Wat Dhammararam Buddhist Temple – A beautiful Cambodian Buddhist temple .

Where to Stay in Stockton

University Plaza Waterfront Hotel

Hilton Stockton

Courtyard by Marriott Stockton

Residence Inn by Marriott Stockton

18. Pebble Beach

Distance from San Jose: 2 hours 10 minutes, 107 miles

Pebble Beach is a luxurious coastal community located on the scenic Monterey Peninsula, renowned for its world-class golf courses, stunning ocean views, and upscale amenities.

With its dramatic coastline, lush forests, and premier golfing, Pebble Beach is an ideal weekend destination for those seeking a lavish and relaxing retreat.

Top 5 Things to Do in Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach Golf Links: Play a round at one of the world’s most famous golf courses.
17-Mile Drive: A scenic coastal drive featuring breathtaking views, iconic landmarks, and beautiful beaches.
Carmel Beach: A nearby picturesque beach with white sand, cypress trees, and stunning ocean views.
Lone Cypress: Visit this iconic Monterey cypress tree on a granite hillside along the 17-Mile Drive.
Spyglass Hill Golf Course: Play a challenging round at this renowned golf course, known for its dramatic ocean views and rolling terrain.

Where to Stay in Pebble Beach

Coral Oasis

Hofsas House Hotel

One Ocean (Vacation Home)

19. Bodega Bay

Bodega Bay , a picturesque coastal village along the stunning Pacific Coast, offers visitors a peaceful retreat with breathtaking ocean views, scenic beaches, and diverse outdoor activities.

With its charming local shops, fresh seafood, and opportunities for whale watching, Bodega Bay is a perfect weekend destination for relaxation and adventure.

Top 5 Things to Do in Bodega Bay

Doran Regional Park: A beautiful park featuring a sandy beach, picnic areas, and walking trails.
Bodega Head: A scenic headland offering panoramic views, whale watching, and hiking trails.
Sonoma Coast State Park: Explore the rugged coastline, secluded beaches, and dramatic cliffs.
Spud Point Crab Company: Enjoy fresh crab and clam chowder at this popular local eatery.
Bodega Bay Surf Shack: Rent a surfboard, paddleboard, or kayak to explore the bay.

READ MORE: 30 Best Things To Do in Bodega Bay, California

Where to Stay in Bodega Bay

The Lodge at Bodega Bay

The Inn at the Tides

20. Calistoga

Distance from San Jose: 2 hours 10 minutes, 120 miles

Located in the heart of Napa Valley, Calistoga is a charming wine country town known for its natural hot springs, world-class wineries, and relaxing spas.

Calistoga offers a luxurious and rejuvenating weekend getaway with its vibrant local culture, stunning landscapes, and unique attractions.

Top 5 Things to Do in Calistoga

Old Faithful Geyser of California: Witness this natural geyser erupting with regular intervals.
Castello di Amorosa: Tour a medieval-style Tuscan castle and winery.
Calistoga Hot Springs: Soak in the therapeutic mineral pools and mud baths.
Sterling Vineyards: Enjoy wine tasting and panoramic views from an aerial tram.
Sharpsteen Museum: Discover Calistoga’s history and culture through exhibits and artifacts.

Where to Stay in Calistoga

Embrace Calistoga

Indian Springs Resort & Spa

Brannan Cottage Inn

21. Sacramento

Distance from San Jose: 2 hours, 122 miles

As California’s capital city, Sacramento offers a rich history, diverse cultural attractions, and a vibrant dining scene.

With its lively downtown area, beautiful parks, and numerous museums, Sacramento is an engaging destination for a weekend trip.

Top 5 Things to Do in Sacramento

California State Capitol Museum: Explore the historic capitol building and its beautiful grounds.
Old Sacramento: Stroll through a 28-acre National Historic Landmark District with Gold Rush-era buildings .
Crocker Art Museum: Discover an extensive collection of California art and international masterpieces.
Sacramento Zoo: Visit over 500 animals in naturalistic habitats at this family-friendly zoo.
American River Parkway: Enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking along the scenic American River.

READ MORE: 81 Best Things To Do in Sacramento, California

Where to Stay in Sacramento

The Citizen Hotel

Kimpton Sawyer Hotel

Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade

Hyatt Regency Sacramento

22. Paso Robles

Distance from San Jose: 2 hours 52 minutes, 159 miles

Nestled in the rolling hills of California’s Central Coast, Paso Robles is a thriving wine country destination known for its award-winning wineries, hot springs, and charming downtown area.

Paso Robles offers a delightful and indulgent weekend escape with its picturesque landscapes, gourmet dining, and unique attractions.

Top 5 Things to Do in Paso Robles

Paso Robles Wine Country: Tour and taste the region’s renowned wineries and vineyards.
Explore the beautiful Sculpture Garden at Sculpterra Winery
Take scenic drives along Highway 46 West, Highway 46 East, and Vineyard Drive
Walk amidst the Field of Light at Sensorio
Paso Robles Pioneer Museum: Discover the area’s history through exhibits and artifacts.
River Oaks Hot Springs Spa: Soak in mineral-rich hot springs and enjoy spa treatments.
Estrella Warbird Museum: Explore aviation and military history at this fascinating museum.

READ MORE: Things to Do in Paso Robles, California – A Weekend Getaway

Where to Stay in Paso Robles

Allegretto Vineyard Resort

Paso Robles Inn

La Bellasera Hotel & Suites

23. Morro Bay

Distance from San Jose: 3 hours, 185 miles

Morro Bay is a charming seaside town situated along the stunning Central Coast. It is known for its iconic Morro Rock, scenic beaches, and abundant wildlife.

Morro Bay is an ideal weekend getaway for those seeking coastal adventure and relaxation with its picturesque harbor, delicious seafood, and numerous outdoor activities.

Top 5 Things to Do in Morro Bay

Morro Rock: Visit this iconic volcanic plug and enjoy the panoramic ocean views.
Morro Bay State Park: Explore trails, birdwatch, and visit the Museum of Natural History.
Morro Bay Harbor: Enjoy waterfront dining, boat tours, and kayaking.
Morro Strand State Beach: Relax and stroll along this beautiful stretch of coastline.
Estero Bluffs State Park: Discover dramatic coastal bluffs, tide pools, and scenic trails.

Where to Stay in Morro Bay

456 Embarcadero Inn & Suites

Anderson Inn

Gray’s Inn & Gallery

24. San Simeon

Distance from San Jose: 3 hours 6 minutes, 193 miles

📍 Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery

A small coastal town located along the Pacific Coast Highway, San Simeon offers stunning ocean views, historic landmarks, and abundant wildlife.

With its dramatic coastline, beautiful beaches, and unique attractions, San Simeon is a captivating weekend destination for nature and history enthusiasts alike.

Top 5 Things to Do in San Simeon

Hearst Castle: Tour this opulent hilltop estate and learn about its fascinating history.
Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery: Observe elephant seals in their natural habitat.
William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach: Relax on the sandy shores and enjoy a picnic.
San Simeon Pier: Stroll along the pier and take in the breathtaking ocean views.
Moonstone Beach: Wander the scenic boardwalk and explore tide pools at this picturesque beach.

Where to Stay in San Simeon

Cavalier Oceanfront Resort

The Morgan Hotel San Simeon

Sea Breeze Inn

25. Pismo Beach

Distance from San Jose: 3 hours 9 minutes, 197 miles

Pismo Beach is a quintessential California beach town that offers visitors beautiful sandy beaches, thrilling outdoor activities, and a lively downtown area.

With its iconic pier, delicious dining options, and abundant opportunities for water sports, Pismo Beach is a perfect weekend destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers.

Top 5 Things to Do in Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach Pier: Stroll along the historic pier and enjoy fishing, surfing, or beachcombing.
Monarch Butterfly Grove: Visit this seasonal sanctuary for thousands of migrating Monarch butterflies.
Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area: Experience off-roading and beach camping at this unique coastal sand dune park.
Pismo Preserve: Hike, bike, or horseback ride through picturesque trails with ocean views.
Dinosaur Caves Park: Explore this clifftop park with a playground, walking paths, and stunning coastal views.

READ MORE: 36 Top Things to Do in Pismo Beach, California

Where to Stay in Pismo Beach

Inn at the Pier

Pismo Lighthouse Suites

SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel

26. Cambria

A charming coastal village nestled between towering pines and dramatic sea cliffs, Cambria is known for its picturesque landscapes, art galleries, and unique boutiques.

With its scenic Moonstone Beach and historic Hearst Castle nearby, Cambria is an enchanting weekend destination for relaxation and exploration.

Top 5 Things to Do in Cambria

Moonstone Beach: Stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Fiscalini Ranch Preserve: Discover miles of trails through coastal bluffs and forests.
Downtown Cambria: Explore local shops, art galleries, and cafes in the East and West Villages.
Hearst Castle: Tour the nearby historic estate and learn about its fascinating past.
Leffingwell Landing State Park: Enjoy a picnic, whale watching, and tidepool exploration.

Where to Stay in Cambria

Cambria Pines Lodge

FogCatcher Inn

El Colibri Hotel & Spa

27. San Luis Obispo

Distance from San Jose: 2 hours 57 minutes, 184 miles

A vibrant college town nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Lucia Mountains, San Luis Obispo is known for its historic downtown area, picturesque landscapes, and outdoor activities.

With its lively local culture, beautiful beaches, and nearby wineries, San Luis Obispo is an ideal weekend destination for culture, nature, and adventure enthusiasts.

Top 5 Things to Do in San Luis Obispo

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa: Explore this historic Spanish mission and its tranquil gardens.
Downtown SLO: Discover local shops, restaurants, and the iconic Bubblegum Alley.
Madonna Inn: Visit this unique hotel with themed rooms and a whimsical atmosphere.
Bishop Peak: Hike to the summit of this popular trail for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Avila Beach: Relax on this beautiful beach and explore its charming oceanfront town.

Where to Stay in San Luis Obispo

La Cuesta Inn

Madonna Inn

The Wayfarer San Luis Obispo Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Hotel Cerro

Granada Hotel & Bistro

28. Pinecrest

Distance from San Jose: 3 hours 3 minutes, 158 miles

A picturesque mountain village nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Pinecrest offers visitors a serene escape surrounded by natural beauty.

With its crystal-clear Pinecrest Lake, lush forests, and miles of scenic trails, Pinecrest is an idyllic weekend destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Top 5 Things to Do in Pinecrest

Pinecrest Lake: Enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, and picnicking at this beautiful alpine lake.
Dodge Ridge Ski Resort: Ski or snowboard on a variety of slopes during the winter season.
Cleos Bath Trail: Hike this challenging trail to a series of natural pools and waterfalls.
Pinecrest Day Use Area: Relax and enjoy outdoor activities in this scenic lakeside spot
Strawberry Meadow: Explore this picturesque meadow filled with wildflowers and scenic hiking trails.

Where to Stay in Pinecrest

High Sierra Retreat with a view of Pinecrest lake

The Long Barn Lodge

Beautiful CabinGated ParkPinecrest & Dodge RidgeOpens in new window

Distance from San Jose: 2 hours 32 minutes, 122 miles

A coastal hamlet where the Russian River meets the Pacific Ocean, Jenner is a tranquil retreat with breathtaking coastal views, beautiful beaches, and diverse wildlife.

With its scenic drives, nearby redwood forests, and numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, Jenner is a perfect weekend destination for relaxation and adventure.

Top 5 Things to Do in Jenner

Goat Rock Beach: Relax on the sandy shores and enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery.
Sonoma Coast State Park: Discover the rugged coastline, secluded beaches, and scenic trails.
Fort Ross State Historic Park: Explore a historic Russian fort and learn about California’s Russian colonial history.
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve: Wander through towering ancient redwoods and hike picturesque trails.
Russian River Estuary: Kayak or canoe through the estuary and observe the abundant wildlife.

READ MORE: 18 Romantic Coastal Towns in California within a Short Drive from the San Francisco Bay Area

Where to Stay in Jenner

Timber Cove Resort

30. Columbia

Distance from San Jose: 2 hours 31 minutes, 133 miles

A living Gold Rush-era town, Columbia State Historic Park transports visitors back in time with its preserved historic buildings, costumed interpreters, and engaging activities.

With its vibrant local culture, unique attractions, and nearby outdoor adventures, Columbia is an entertaining and educational weekend destination for history buffs and families alike.

READ MORE: 28 Top California Gold Rush Towns Near San Francisco

Top 5 Things to Do in Columbia

Columbia State Historic Park: Step back in time and explore this preserved 1850s mining town.
Pan for Gold: Try your luck panning for gold in the park’s designated areas.
Stagecoach Ride: Experience a historic stagecoach ride through the town.
Columbia Schoolhouse: Visit the oldest functioning one-room schoolhouse in California.
Columbia Museum: Discover the town’s Gold Rush history through exhibits and artifacts.

Where to Stay in Columbia

Historic National Hotel

Hotel Lumberjack

31. Murphys

Distance from San Jose: 2 hours 24 minutes, 138 miles

A charming Gold Rush-era little town nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, Murphys is known for its historic downtown area, boutique wineries, and scenic landscapes.

With its lively local culture, gourmet dining, and nearby outdoor activities, Murphys is an ideal weekend destination for wine enthusiasts and history lovers.

Top 5 Things to Do in Murphys

Historic Downtown Murphys: Stroll through the charming main street lined with shops, tasting rooms, and restaurants.
Ironstone Vineyards: Tour this picturesque winery and enjoy wine tasting.
Moaning Cavern Adventure Park: Descend into this limestone cavern and experience thrilling zip-lining.
Calaveras Big Trees State Park: Wander among giant sequoias and hike scenic trails. Angels Camp
Museum: Discover the area’s Gold Rush history through exhibits and artifacts.

Where to Stay in Murphys

Historic National Hotel & Restaurant

Courtwood Inn

Murphys Suites

Distance from San Jose: 2 hours 40 minutes, 150 miles

Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Arnold offers visitors an outdoor paradise surrounded by lush forests, alpine lakes, and numerous hiking trails.

With its beautiful landscapes, abundant outdoor activities, and nearby attractions, Arnold is an ideal weekend destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Top 5 Things to Do in Arnold

Calaveras Big Trees State Park: Explore groves of giant sequoias and enjoy hiking trails.
Arnold Rim Trail: Hike, bike, or horseback ride along this scenic 17-mile trail.
White Pines Lake: Relax on the shores, swim, or kayak at this picturesque lake.
Bear Valley Mountain: Ski or snowboard in the winter or hike and mountain bike in the summer.
Sequoia Woods Country Club: Play golf at this beautiful mountain course surrounded by towering pines.

Where to Stay in Arnold

Meadowmont Lodge

Big Trees Getaway (Vacation Home)

33. Sutter Creek

Distance from San Jose: 2 hours 14 minutes, 125 miles

A charming Gold Rush-era town nestled in the heart of California’s Gold Country, Sutter Creek is known for its historic downtown area, boutique wineries, and rich mining history.

With its quaint local shops, delicious dining options, and nearby outdoor activities, Sutter Creek is an ideal weekend destination for history buffs and wine enthusiasts alike.

Top 5 Things to Do in Sutter Creek

Historic Downtown Sutter Creek: Explore the charming main street lined with shops, tasting rooms, and restaurants.
Knight Foundry: Visit this historic water-powered foundry and machine shop.
Sutter Creek Theatre: Enjoy live performances in this intimate, historic venue.
Monteverde General Store Museum: Discover Gold Rush-era artifacts and exhibits.
Black Chasm Cavern: Tour this spectacular limestone cave with unique helictite formations.

Where to Stay in Sutter Creek Hotel Sutter

Hanford House Inn

Hotel Sutter

34. South Lake Tahoe

Distance from San Jose: 6 hours 57 minutes, 220 miles

Famed for its crystal-clear waters, stunning alpine scenery, and outdoor activities, Lake Tahoe is a year-round playground for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Lake Tahoe is an unforgettable weekend destination for relaxation and outdoor adventure with world-class ski resorts, scenic hiking trails, and picturesque beaches.

Top 5 Things to Do in Lake Tahoe

Emerald Bay State Park: Enjoy breathtaking views, hike to a historic castle, and explore an island.
Heavenly Mountain Resort: Ski or snowboard in the winter, or ride the scenic gondola year-round.
Sand Harbor: Relax on beautiful beaches, swim, or kayak in crystal-clear waters.
Tahoe Rim Trail: Hike or bike along this 165-mile trail encircling the lake.
Vikingsholm: Tour a historic Scandinavian-style mansion located in Emerald Bay State Park.

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe

The Landing Resort & Spa

Resthaven Tahoe

35. Yosemite National Park

Distance from San Jose: 3 hours 10 minutes, 164 miles

A world-renowned natural wonder, Yosemite National Park boasts awe-inspiring granite cliffs, thundering waterfalls, pristine wilderness, and captivating landmarks .

Each landmark tells a unique story, adding to the tapestry of this majestic landscape.

With its majestic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and numerous outdoor activities, Yosemite is an unforgettable weekend destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip: Best Route and Stops
50 Top Landmarks in Yosemite National Park, California
One Day Trip to Yosemite National Park: Best Things to See

Top 5 Things to Do in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Valley: Explore the heart of the park, including iconic landmarks such as El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls.
Mariposa Grove: Wander among ancient giant sequoias, including the famous Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree.
Glacier Point: Take in breathtaking panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the high Sierra. Tuolumne Meadows: Discover alpine meadows, granite domes, and pristine wilderness in the park’s high country.
Hetch Hetchy Valley: Hike around a beautiful reservoir, visit spectacular waterfalls, and enjoy stunning mountain scenery.

Where to Stay near Yosemite National Park

Alpine View

36. Mendocino & Fort Bragg

Distance from San Jose: 4 hours 8 minutes, 209 miles

Nestled along the rugged Northern California coast, Mendocino is a charming village known for its stunning coastal views, vibrant arts scene, and historic architecture.

With its picturesque headlands, beautiful beaches, and nearby redwood forests, Mendocino is an idyllic weekend destination for relaxation, exploration, and artistic inspiration.

Top 5 Things to Do in Mendocino

Mendocino Headlands State Park: Explore scenic coastal bluffs, beaches, and tide pools.
Ford House Visitor Center & Museum: Discover Mendocino’s history and learn about the area’s flora and fauna.
Mendocino Art Center: Visit this creative hub for art exhibitions, workshops, and performances.
Russian Gulch State Park: Hike through lush forests and enjoy the beautiful coastline.
Point Cabrillo Light Station: Tour a historic lighthouse and enjoy panoramic ocean views.

READ MORE: 44 Top Things to Do in Mendocino, California

Where to Stay in Mendocino

Brewery Gulch Inn

Headlands Inn Bed and Breakfast

Inns of Mendocino

Fort Bragg , a neighboring town to Mendocino, offers visitors a charming coastal experience with beautiful beaches, scenic trails, and a rich history.

With its picturesque coastal setting and proximity to Mendocino, Fort Bragg is an ideal destination for a weekend of relaxation and exploration.

Top 5 Things to Do in Fort Bragg

Glass Beach: Discover unique sea glass treasures along this colorful shoreline. Skunk Train:
Ride a historic train through redwood forests and scenic landscapes.
Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens : Explore beautiful gardens and coastal views. Noyo Harbor:
Dine on fresh seafood and watch fishing boats come and go.
MacKerricher State Park: Hike coastal trails, view marine life, and enjoy pristine beaches.

READ MORE: 48 Top Things to Do in Fort Bragg, California

Where to Stay in Fort Bragg

Ocean View Lodge

Surf & Sand Lodge

North Cliff Hotel

37. Redwood National and State Parks, California

Distance from San Jose: 4 hours 35 minutes, 261 miles

Home to the largest remaining contiguous old-growth redwood forest in the world, Redwood National and State Parks are a must-see destination for nature lovers.

With its towering redwoods, scenic trails, and picturesque landscapes, this park offers an unforgettable weekend of exploration and relaxation.

Top 5 Things to Do in Redwood National and State Parks, California

Avenue of the Giants: Drive or hike through a 31-mile scenic route lined with ancient redwoods.
Founder’s Grove: Explore a beautiful grove featuring the famous Dyerville Giant.
Rockefeller Forest: Wander through one of the world’s largest remaining old-growth redwood forests.
Eel River: Enjoy fishing, swimming, or picnicking along the riverbanks.
Bull Creek Flats Loop: Hike through lush redwood forests and serene meadows.

READ MORE: 29 Best Things To Do In Redwood National and State Parks, California

Where to Stay near Redwood National and State Parks, California

Benbow Historic Inn

Best Western Plus Humboldt House Inn

38. Lake Shasta

Distance from San Jose: 4 hours 20 minutes, 265 miles

Nestled in the heart of Northern California, Lake Shasta offers visitors a picturesque setting with crystal-clear waters, towering mountains, and abundant outdoor activities.

From boating and fishing to hiking and mountain biking, Lake Shasta is a fantastic weekend destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Top 5 Things to Do at Lake Shasta

Shasta Dam: Tour one of the tallest dams in the United States and enjoy panoramic lake views.
Boating and Fishing: Rent a boat or take a fishing trip on the vast waters of Lake Shasta.
Lake Shasta Caverns: Explore ancient limestone caves and marvel at their stunning formations.
Mount Shasta: Hike, ski, or snowboard on the slopes of this majestic volcanic peak.
Shasta-Trinity National Forest: Discover hiking trails, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

Where to Stay at Lake Shasta

The Inn at Shasta Lake

Best Western Plus Hilltop Inn

39. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Distance from San Jose: 4 hours 40 minutes, 268 miles

Lassen Volcanic National Park showcases diverse landscapes, from steaming fumaroles and boiling mud pots to snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear lakes.

With its unique volcanic features, picturesque scenery, and numerous outdoor activities, Lassen National Park offers visitors an unforgettable weekend adventure.

Top 5 Things to Do in Lassen National Park

Lassen Peak: Hike to the summit of an active volcano for breathtaking views.
Bumpass Hell: Explore a hydrothermal area with boiling pools, mud pots, and steam vents.
Manzanita Lake: Enjoy fishing, kayaking, or swimming in this beautiful alpine lake.
Cinder Cone: Climb a volcanic cone and witness the Fantastic Lava Beds and Painted Dunes.
Devastated Area Interpretive Trail: Learn about the park’s volcanic history and observe its impact on the landscape.

Where to Stay near Lassen Volcanic National Park

Comfort Inn & Suites

SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Susanville

40. Solvang

Distance from San Jose: 4 hours 5 minutes, 251 miles

Solvang , a quaint Danish village nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley, offers visitors a charming experience with its European-style architecture, delicious bakeries, and boutique wineries.

With its unique cultural atmosphere and nearby attractions like Los Olivos and Santa Ynez, Solvang is an enchanting weekend destination for food and wine lovers.

Top 5 Things to Do in Solvang

Old Mission Santa Inés: Tour a historic Spanish mission founded in 1804.
Solvang Windmills: Admire the iconic Danish windmills scattered throughout the village.
Elverhøj Museum of History and Art: Explore Solvang’s Danish heritage and local art.
Hans Christian Andersen Museum: Discover the life and works of the famous Danish writer.
Wine Tasting: Sample local wines at the numerous tasting rooms throughout the village.

READ MORE: 54 Best Things To Do In Solvang, California: A Danish Gem

Where to Stay in Solvang

The Landsby

Hotel Corque

Mirabelle Inn

41. Santa Barbara

Distance from San Jose: 4 hours 37 minutes, 290 miles

Santa Barbara , known as the “American Riviera,” is a picturesque coastal city with stunning Spanish-style architecture, pristine beaches, and a vibrant downtown area.

With its lush wine country, abundant outdoor activities, and rich cultural attractions, Santa Barbara is a perfect weekend destination for relaxation and exploration.

Top 5 Things to Do in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara County Courthouse: Visit this historic landmark for its beautiful architecture and panoramic city views.
Stearns Wharf: Explore a bustling pier with shops, restaurants, and an aquarium.
Santa Barbara Mission: Tour an iconic Spanish mission founded in 1786.
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden: Discover native California plants in a serene garden setting.
Wine Tasting: Visit nearby wineries in the Santa Ynez Valley for a delightful wine experience.

READ MORE: 70 Best Things to Do in Santa Barbara, California

Where to Stay in Santa Barbara

Hotel Californian

Kimpton Canary Hotel

Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

42. Gualala

Distance from San Jose: 3 hours 34 minutes, 160 miles

Gualala, a charming coastal town along the Sonoma Coast, offers visitors a peaceful escape with its rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and quaint local shops.

Surrounded by scenic landscapes and nearby attractions like Sea Ranch and Point Arena, Gualala is an ideal weekend getaway for relaxation and coastal exploration.

Top 5 Things to Do in Gualala

Gualala Point Regional Park: Explore coastal bluffs, beaches, and a scenic river estuary.
Gualala Arts Center: Visit a creative hub for art exhibitions, workshops, and performances.
Gualala River: Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or swimming in the refreshing waters.
Gualala Bluff Trail: Hike a scenic trail along the coastal bluffs with panoramic ocean views. Bowling Ball
Beach: Discover a unique beach with large, round boulders resembling bowling balls.

Where to Stay in Gualala

Gualala Country Inn

Hotel Breakers

43. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park

Distance from San Jose: 4 hours 6 minutes, 226 miles

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, known for their towering ancient sequoias and dramatic landscapes, offer visitors a captivating weekend experience.

With its giant trees, rugged canyons, and pristine wilderness, these parks provide endless opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventure.

Top 5 Things to Do in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park

General Sherman Tree : Stand in awe of the world’s largest tree by volume.
Moro Rock: Climb to the summit of this granite dome for sweeping park views.
Crystal Cave: Explore an underground world of sparkling formations in a marble cave.
Giant Forest: Wander among ancient sequoias, including the famous General Grant Tree.
Roaring River Falls: Hike to a picturesque waterfall in Kings Canyon.

Where to Stay near Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park

Montecito Sequoia Lodge

Comfort Inn & Suites Sequoia Kings Canyon

44. Lake Almanor

Distance from San Jose: 5 hours 3 minutes, 273 miles

Lake Almanor, nestled in the Sierra Nevada, offers a serene setting with crystal-clear waters, lush forests, and abundant outdoor activities.

From fishing and boating to hiking and birdwatching, Lake Almanor is a fantastic weekend destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Top 5 Things to Do at Lake Almanor

Boating and Fishing: Enjoy the vast waters of Lake Almanor with a boat rental or fishing trip.
Lake Almanor Recreation Trail: Hike or bike along a scenic trail with stunning lake and mountain views.
Lassen Volcanic National Park: Explore nearby Lassen National Park’s unique volcanic landscapes.
Indian Valley: Discover picturesque meadows, charming towns, and scenic drives.
Bailey Creek Golf Course: Play a round of golf in a beautiful mountain setting.

Where to Stay at Lake Almanor

Best Western Rose Quartz Inn

Cedar Ridge Retreat

45. Los Angeles

Distance from San Jose: 5 hours 49 minutes, 341 miles

The City of Angels, Los Angeles, is a sprawling metropolis known for its iconic Hollywood landmarks, vibrant arts scene, and diverse neighborhoods.

From shopping on Rodeo Drive to soaking up the sun on Santa Monica Beach, LA offers a wealth of attractions for a long weekend getaway.

Top 5 Things to Do in Los Angeles

Hollywood Walk of Fame: Stroll among the stars and visit iconic landmarks like the TCL Chinese Theatre.
Griffith Observatory: Enjoy panoramic city views and learn about astronomy.
Universal Studios Hollywood: Experience movie magic and thrilling rides at this famous theme park.
Getty Center: Admire stunning architecture and an impressive art collection.
Santa Monica Pier: Explore the pier’s amusement park, aquarium, and beach.

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

The Hollywood Roosevelt

The Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites

Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills

46. Palm Springs

Distance from San Jose: 7 hours 52 minutes, 447 miles

Palm Springs, nestled in the Coachella Valley, is a desert oasis known for its mid-century modern architecture, natural hot springs, and vibrant arts scene.

With its sunny skies, stunning landscapes, and world-class golf courses, Palm Springs offers a luxurious and relaxing long weekend getaway.

Top 5 Things to Do in Palm Springs

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: Ride the world’s largest rotating tramcar for breathtaking mountain views.
Palm Springs Art Museum: Explore contemporary and Native American art collections.
Indian Canyons: Hike scenic trails and discover lush palm oases in the desert.
Moorten Botanical Garden: Wander through a unique cactarium showcasing desert flora.
VillageFest: Experience a weekly street fair with local arts, crafts, and food.

Where to Stay in Palm Springs

Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel

Dive Palm Springs

The Saguaro Palm Springs

47. Joshua Tree National Park

Distance from San Jose: 7 hours 35 minutes, 459 miles

Joshua Tree National Park, renowned for its surreal desert landscapes and distinctive Joshua trees, offers visitors a unique and unforgettable adventure.

With its diverse terrain, fascinating rock formations, and stunning night skies, Joshua Tree is an ideal long weekend destination for outdoor enthusiasts and stargazers alike.

Top 5 Things to Do in Joshua Tree National Park

Hidden Valley: Hike through a picturesque valley surrounded by massive boulders.
Keys View: Enjoy panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and distant mountain ranges.
Cholla Cactus Garden: Wander through a dense concentration of Cholla cacti.
Arch Rock: Discover a natural arch created by wind and water erosion.
Barker Dam: Hike to a historic dam and view Native American petroglyphs.

Where to Stay near Joshua Tree National Park

Sacred Sands : Experience a tranquil oasis with luxuriously appointed rooms, saltwater pools, and stunning desert views. Perfect for couples seeking privacy and relaxation in a boutique setting.

The Castle House Estate : Step into a world of mid-century modern glamour with spacious suites, a secluded poolside setting, and a touch of vintage Hollywood charm. Ideal for those wanting a retro-chic escape.

48. Laguna Beach

Distance from San Jose: 7 hours 12 minutes, 394 miles

Laguna Beach, a picturesque coastal town in Orange County, is known for its stunning beaches, art galleries, and vibrant community.

With its charming downtown area, scenic coastal cliffs, and crystal-clear waters, Laguna Beach is an enchanting long weekend destination.

Top 5 Things to Do in Laguna Beach

Main Beach: Relax on a beautiful beach and explore the nearby boardwalk.
Heisler Park: Stroll through a scenic park with ocean views and art installations.
Pacific Marine Mammal Center: Learn about the rescue and rehabilitation of marine mammals.
Laguna Art Museum: Discover California art from the 19th century to the present.
Crystal Cove State Park: Explore miles of pristine coastline, tide pools, and hiking trails.

Where to Stay in Laguna Beach

Montage Laguna Beach

Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa

The Ranch at Laguna Beach

49. Death Valley National Park

Distance from San Jose: 7 hours, 415 miles

Death Valley National Park , the largest national park in the contiguous United States, offers visitors a dramatic landscape of extremes.

With its vast salt flats, towering sand dunes, and colorful badlands, Death Valley provides a fascinating long weekend adventure for outdoor enthusiasts.

Top 5 Things to Do in Death Valley National Park

Badwater Basin: Marvel at the lowest point in North America, a surreal salt flat.
Zabriskie Point: Witness a colorful badlands landscape and enjoy panoramic views.
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes: Explore rolling sand dunes that stretch across the desert.
Artist’s Palette: Drive through a scenic canyon showcasing vibrant mineral deposits.
Dante’s View: Admire breathtaking vistas of the park from a mountaintop overlook.

Where to Stay near Death Valley National Park

Panamint Springs Resort

Amargosa Opera House & Hotel

50. June Lake Loop

Distance from San Jose: 6 hours, 307 miles

The June Lake Loop, located in the Eastern Sierra, is a beautiful alpine area known for its pristine lakes , scenic hiking trails, and excellent fishing.

With its stunning mountain landscapes, lush forests, and charming town, the June Lake Loop is an idyllic long weekend destination for nature lovers.

Top 5 Things to Do at June Lake Loop

June Lake: Enjoy fishing, boating, and swimming in this picturesque alpine lake.
Gull Lake: Relax on a peaceful beach or fish from the shoreline.
Silver Lake: Take in the serene beauty of this stunning mountain lake.
Ansel Adams Wilderness: Hike among pristine lakes, towering peaks, and lush meadows.
June Mountain Ski Area: Hit the slopes for skiing and snowboarding in the winter months.

Where to Stay at June Lake Loop

Double Eagle Resort and Spa

June Lake Villager

51. Big Bear Lake

Distance from San Jose: 7 hours 14 minutes, 429 miles

Nestled in the heart of the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Lake, California, is a popular year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families.

With its stunning alpine lake, scenic landscapes, and a myriad of recreational activities, Big Bear Lake provides an enjoyable and rejuvenating long weekend escape.

Top 5 Things to Do at Big Bear Lake

Explore Big Bear Lake: Enjoy water sports, fishing, and boat tours on this beautiful alpine lake.
Hike the Castle Rock Trail: Trek through picturesque forests and take in stunning panoramic lake views.
Visit Big Bear Alpine Zoo: Discover a variety of native wildlife and support their rehabilitation efforts.
Stroll through The Village: Experience shopping, dining, and entertainment in this charming mountain town center.
Ski or Snowboard at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain: Hit the slopes at these popular ski resorts during winter in California .

Where to Stay near Big Bear Lake

Holiday Inn Resort The Lodge at Big Bear Lake
Lagonita Lodge

Distance from San Jose: 5 hours 9 minutes, 328 miles

Oxnard, a coastal city in Southern California, is known for its beautiful beaches, historic downtown area, and diverse outdoor activities.

With its pleasant climate, scenic harbor, and nearby attractions like Channel Islands National Park, Oxnard offers a relaxing and enjoyable long weekend getaway.

Top 5 Things to Do in Oxnard

Channel Islands National Park: Explore the pristine islands and abundant marine life on a guided boat tour.
Oxnard Beach Park: Relax on a beautiful beach and enjoy the nearby playground and picnic areas.
Visit Point Mugu Missile Park
Mullin Automotive Museum: Admire a collection of vintage and classic automobiles.
Channel Islands Harbor: Enjoy dining, shopping, and water activities in this scenic harbor.

Where to Stay in Oxnard

Embassy Suites by Hilton Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort

Hampton Inn Channel Islands Harbor

Homewood Suites by Hilton Oxnard

Courtyard by Marriott Oxnard

53. San Diego

Distance from San Jose: 8 hours 18 minutes, 459 miles

San Diego, a coastal city in Southern California, is known for its beautiful beaches, pleasant climate, and world-famous attractions.

With its diverse neighborhoods, thriving arts scene, and outdoor activities, San Diego offers a memorable long weekend destination for all ages.

Top 5 Things to Do in San Diego

Balboa Park: Explore a vast urban cultural park with museums, gardens, and the famous San Diego Zoo.
Cabrillo National Monument: Visit this historic site, offering stunning views of the San Diego coastline and a glimpse into California’s early history.
Gaslamp Quarter: Discover the historic architecture, shopping, dining, and nightlife in this vibrant neighborhood.
La Jolla Cove: Relax on a beautiful beach and explore the nearby sea caves.
USS Midway Museum: Tour a historic aircraft carrier and learn about naval aviation history.
Coronado Island: Stroll along the sandy shores and visit the iconic Hotel del Coronado.

Where to Stay in San Diego

Pendry San Diego : Chic hotel in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, with a rooftop pool, vibrant atmosphere, and prime location for nightlife and dining.

Hotel del Coronado : Iconic beachfront resort with Victorian charm, modern amenities, and a touch of timeless elegance. Perfect for a luxurious coastal escape.

Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego Airport Liberty Station : Convenient option near the airport and cruise terminals, offering comfortable rooms, complimentary breakfast, and easy access to attractions like Liberty Station.

54. Las Vegas

Distance from San Jose: 8 hours 14 minutes, 527 miles

Las Vegas , the Entertainment Capital of the World, is a dynamic city renowned for its world-class casinos, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife.

With its dazzling lights, spectacular shows, and indulgent dining options, Las Vegas offers an unforgettable long weekend experience.

Top 5 Things to Do in Las Vegas

The Las Vegas Strip: Experience the excitement of iconic casinos, resorts, and attractions.
Fremont Street Experience: Discover the historic downtown area with its light shows, street performers, and zip-lining.
Bellagio Fountains: Witness a mesmerizing water show set to music and lights.
High Roller Observation Wheel: Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the world’s tallest observation wheel.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area: Explore scenic trails and dramatic landscapes outside the city.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

ARIA Resort & Casino

The Venetian Resort Las Vegas

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Each of these weekend getaways offers its own unique attractions, landscapes, and experiences.

With its diverse landscapes, from coastal escapes and wine country retreats to bustling cities and charming small towns, California and its surrounding areas offer many options for unforgettable weekend trips from San Jose .

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach escape, an adventurous outdoor expedition, or a vibrant city experience, you’ll find a perfect getaway within a few hours’ drive.

Use this comprehensive guide to 54 Top Weekend Trips from San Jose to plan your next weekend adventure and create lasting memories with your friends and family. Happy travels!

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Leave a comment below if you have any questions, or DM me on Instagram @travelrealizations .

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Chirasree Banerjee

Hello. My name is Chirasree. I have been traveling for almost 11 years to places all over the world. I enter into a separate reality during my travels and enjoy the allure of escape from the mundane. I seek beauty through nature and human-made creations. Because beauty is powerful. I seek knowledge. I observe, absorb, and write about the places I visit and the profound realizations and inspirations that each place has to offer.

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If you’re looking for some fun day trips from San Jose, California to spice up your weekend plans, then this is the post for you! I am here to give you all the deets on 20 amazing destinations (towns, landmarks and attractions) that are under 2 hours drive from San Jose for a full day of fun and enjoyment! Continue reading to find the best places to visit for epic San Jose day trips!

Day trips from San Jose, san Jose day trips, 20 day trips from San Jose under 2 hours

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San Jose, California (not to be confused with San Jose in Costa Rica) is not only the largest city in the Bay Area but also synonymous with the famous (or infamous) Silicon valley, i.e. the seat of modern tech. San Jose lies about 55 miles south of downtown San Francisco, cradled around the southernmost boundary of the San Francisco Bay. It is served by its very own airport, i.e. the San Jose International Airport (SJC) which is a mere 10 minute drive from downtown.

This southern location of San Jose pretty much guarantees lots of options for day trips extending all the way to the Central Coast of California. Much like my post on Bay Area day trips from San Francisco, here too I am going to talk about 20 amazing destinations that you can drive to from San Jose and all under 2 hours one way (traffic permitting). No one likes to spend a majority of their day trips driving and so this cut-off of two hours is where I draw the line for places conducive for making day trips from San Jose with plenty of time to enjoy your chosen destination.

I have arranged this list of places, i.e. day trip ideas from San Jose geographically from north to south for your convenience. One final tip before we get started on the list: maximize your day trip experience, please get an early start as much as possible since the Bay Area has notoriously bad traffic!

Table of Contents

DAY TRIPS FROM SAN JOSE (MARIN, SAN FRANCISCO, EAST BAY PENINSULA)

Distance: 68 miles

Muir woods is one of the best destinations for a day trip from San Jose

This famous grove of coastal Redwoods named after environmentalist John Muir is one of the most popular draws of Marin county and one of the best ideas for a day trip from San Jose. Protected as a National Monument since 1908, this serene grove of old growth Redwoods has plenty of hikes with over 6 miles of trails to keep you busy. Download the Muir Woods map here and see the hiking trails here .

Please be aware that you need to make advanced reservations to access Muir Woods and entry is timed, based on your parking or shuttle reservation. Here is everything you need to know to plan your visit. Dogs are not allowed in Muir woods.

MARIN HEADLANDS (POINT BONITA LIGHTHOUSE, MUIR AND STINSON BEACHES)

Distance: 53 miles

This is one of the northernmost destinations that I’d recommend on going on a day trip from San Jose with about an hour and half of driving through San Francisco and crossing the Golden Gate Bridge. Marin Headlands ( see map here ) is the part of Marin county that lies right north off the bridge and is one of the best places in the Bay Area from where you can get stellar views of our beloved Golden Gate Bridge . I recommend stopping by Battery Spencer or Hawk Hill for breathtaking views.

Apart from the panoramic views of our azure blue waters, the coastline and the bridge the one thing that Marin Headlands is famous for is its beaches and coastal hikes as well as Point Bonita Lighthouse , one of the few remaining functioning lighthouses on the California Coast.

A short walk along the Point Bonita Lighthouse trail from the parking lot will lead you to the lighthouse that is open only on Sunday and Monday from 12:30-3:30 PM (as of Feb 2022, PB Lighthouse is unfortunately closed till further notice due to an electrical safety issue).

Beside Point Bonita, the other attractions of the Marin Headlands is undoubtedly the coastal hikes that connect its many beaches. The closest beaches are Rodeo and Tennessee Beaches with Muir Beach and Stinson Beach being further north. If you love to hike, then the scenic Rodeo Beach Coastal Trail or the Tennessee Valley Trail (starting from the beach’s parking lot) are good options. See all the Marin Headlands Trails here.

If you’re not into hiking, then a day at the beach or even better a visit to Muir Beach Overlook is another excellent option when at the Marin Headlands. Muir Beach Overlook provides a panoramic view of the coast and also has a nice trail (Owl Trail) that leads to Slide Ranch. This spot is one of my favorite places in Marin Headlands!

MILL VALLEY

Distance: 66 miles

Mill Valley is that cute as a button town in Marin County where we often find ourselves when we’re in the mood to either explore a gurgling waterfall (yes, Mill Valley is home to Cascade Falls that is a short drive from downtown), hiking the DipSea Trail , admiring the Redwoods at Old Mill Park or simply noshing some yum food in downtown Mill Valley (home to boutique stores and art galleries along Throckmorton Avenue).

When in Mill Valley, I recommend getting a bite to eat at either Avatar’s Punjabi Burritos or Boo Koo and grabbing baked goods from Flour Craft Bakery at Mill Valley Lumber Yard now refashioned into a beautiful outdoor mall with lots of local stores and restaurants. Also, please stop by Poet and the Bench , my favorite store in Mill Valley selling jewelry, artwork and ceramics by my favorite local ceramicist Judith Lemmens .

Distance: 62 miles

Day trips from San Jose: Visit Sausalito

Sausalito is the very first town in Marin county that you’ll find yourselves in once you cross the Golden Gate Bridge. This charming artsy town can also be reached by ferry from San Francisco’s Ferry building.

A day out in Sausalito can mean hanging out at the beaches with plenty to choose from, such as Rodeo Beach, this secret Black Sands Beach and Kirby Cove Beach with fantastic views of Bridge. Downtown Sausalito is bustling with restaurants, cafes and many art galleries (Galerie Elektra is my favorite) with fabulous views from the harborfront that is home to a Sea Lion sculpture by Al Sybrian.

My favorite places to eat out in Sausalito are Sushi Ran , The Spinnaker (on the very edge with marvellous views of the coast), Bar Bocce and Scoma’s (they have the freshest seafood). Fans of Herge’s Tintin comics can stop by Sausalito Ferry Co. Novelty Toy and Gift Store to pick up some Tintin merchandise.

ANGEL ISLAND

Distance: 55-62 miles + Ferry

Angel Island State Park is the largest natural island in the San Francisco Bay and is located right off the shores of Tiburon , another coastal town next to Mill Valley. Angel Island is also known as the “Ellis Island of the West” because this is where immigrants coming into California (and west coast in general) made landfall prior to being allowed inland.

You will need to board the ferry from San Francisco or Tiburon to get here (the ferry from Tiburon plies on weekdays as a charter service during winter). The ferry ride from Tiburon is shorter than the one from San Francisco in case you are worried about getting motion sickness. Once you get to the island at Ayala Cove, grab a bite at the restaurant/cafe for a picnic by the Bay and also because there are no other food options inside the island.

Angel Island has a fascinating history and was only commissioned to be a state park starting from 1954. The once home to Coast Miwok, Angel Island was a seasonal hunting and gathering location for the local native tribes. With the arrival of the Europeans, this island acted as a safe refuge and supply stop for Spanish explorers like Juan Manuel de Ayala who was one of the first to map the San Francisco Bay.

From 1910 to 1940, Angel Island acted as the base for the U.S. Immigration Station which processed hundreds of thousands of immigrants, the majority being Chinese who had braved the long journey to California in search of opportunities, especially in the aftermath of the Gold Rush. During World War II, this station served as a detention center for Japanese and German POWs before they were sent to facilities farther inland.

With the outbreaks of World Wars I and II, thousands of troops both returning and going to war all around the world were processed through this Island. In the ’50s and ’60s, the Island saw its last military service as a home to a Nike missile base, and the transition to a State Park became complete after the departure of the last military troops in the 60s.

Angel island is a great place for hiking and coastal views. However, the most important visiting point in Angel island is the Angel Island Immigration Station which is now a museum that is free to the public. Nearby is the Detention Barracks museum and the Fog Bell which are also must visits.

My visit to Angel Island several years ago was a poignant affair where the sight of the detention cells and the discrimination towards the Asian immigrants (something that continues to this day) made me teary eyed. There is also a memorial facing the Bay with plaques of thousands of immigrants whose descendents live all over the Bay Area today.

SAN FRANCISCO

Distance: 55 miles

The famous “City by the Bay” or “Fog City” lies only 55 miles north of San Jose and is perfect for a day trip to get a taste of all the mind boggling possibilities that it packs within its tiny 49 square miles (much smaller than San Jose which is 180 square miles in area). I have been living in San Francisco for the last 12 years and let me tell you one thing: a day trip to San Francisco is definitely not enough to see everything!

However, if you only have a day to spare in the city, I recommend two things: a) treat this day trip as a layover of 6-8 hours and read my San Francisco layover post to maximize your limited time in the city by seeing the major attractions (if this is your very first time) and b) try not to drive into the city if you can help it (because our parking is crazy expensive and difficult to find) and take the Caltrain from San Jose Diridon station.

If this is not your first rodeo in the city, then boy do I have a ton of posts for you to explore my home a bit more! Find out where to find the best hidden gems in San Francisco , the best San Francisco neighborhoods , best photo spots in SF , free things to do in San Francisco (your wallet/purse will thank you), where to eat for cheap in the city , foodie experiences in San Francisco -including vegetarian and vegan restaurants , best dessert spots , artisan chocolate stores and fancy afternoon tearooms .

San Francisco is one of those cities where urban hiking is a thing, with lots of tranquil and coastal hikes revealing panoramic views of the rugged California coast and the Bridge. You can read my guide to the best hiking trails in San Francisco , hidden beaches in San Francisco , the best viewpoints in San Francisco and the best things to do in Golden Gate Park if you love to explore the outdoors.

Visiting San Francisco with your pup? I have you covered with all my dog friendly San Francisco guides – dog friendly parks , dog friendly beaches and the best dog friendly hikes in the city for a fun day trip to SF with your best friend.

Resident’s tip: San Francisco is almost always cold and chilly, even in summer! Read my what to wear in San Francisco guide or find this handy packing list to dress appropriately for our crazy microclimates.

Distance: 41 miles

Oakland is another great San jose Day trip destination

Oakland is the third largest city in the Bay Area and is one of the most diverse, historically and culturally rich cities in USA. Although it does not get nearly as much touristy love as its sister San Francisco, you can easily spend a week in Oakland exploring its vibrant neighborhoods and outdoor space.

Oakland is a big city, so you are best advised to pick one or two neighborhoods or attractions when visiting on a day trip from San Jose. I recommend exploring either Jack London Square (Oakland’s bustling waterfront), strolling around Lake Merritt, checking out the beautiful murals in Downtown, eating out at Rockridge and Temescal neighborhoods or going on a hike amidst the Redwoods at Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park.

PS: Read my guide to 25 terrific day trip ideas from Oakland right here

Distance: 33 miles

Day trips from San Jose, Where to go to on a day trip from San Jose, Livermore wineries

Napa and Sonoma, the two gems of California wine country may be bit much of a stretch when it comes to day trips from San Jose but why go all the way north when you have Livermore wine country on the East Bay that under an hour’s drive from SJ?

If you’re a wine enthusiast looking to taste some refreshing, crisp Chardonnay-then head to Livermore Valley wineries which produce this grape in abundance. Livermore valley AVA is one of the best wine regions in California and has been growing wine grapes since the 19th century (the first grapes were planted in 1840s). Cresta Blanca Winery (founded in 1882) was one of the earliest wineries in this region with its first vintage (1884) winning Grand Prix at the 1889 Paris Exposition , becoming the first California wine to win a competition in France much before the 1976 Judgement of Paris.

Livermore has over 50 spectacular wineries, of which the the biggest and most famous wineries are Concannon and Wente , the only two that were in operation during the infamous Prohibition . The other notable wineries to visit are Murrieta’s Well , McGrail Vineyards , Rodrigue Molyneaux and Wood Family.

Distance: 47 miles

This charming coastal town with pristine beaches and gorgeous hikes is one of the must visit stops along Highway 1 if you’re driving from San Francisco to Carmel and makes for an excellent day trip from San Jose. When in Pacifica stop by the popular Mazzetti’s bakery or get yourself a “wellness latte” at Saltwater Bakery in Downtown Pacifica (which is so cute!).

A day out in Pacifica means getting your fill of the sun and sand at one of its many beaches such as Esplanade beach, Pacifica State Beach, Pacifica Beach View Park, Rockaway Beach, San Pedro beach and Gray Whale Cove Beach (between Pacifica and Montara), to name a few. I highly recommend either Pacifica State Beach (say hi to the surfers and playful pups on the sand) or Gray Whale Cove Beach.

Pacifica has tons of amazing coastal hikes revealing dramatic views of the ocean. Since you cannot get to all of them on a day trip, just take my word for it and get on the Mori Point Loop Trail for its ease and views. The other easy hike is on the Devil’s Slide trail (paved trail which used to be a part of Highway 1) or the Pedro Point Headlands trail. See all the Pacifica hiking trails right here.

HALF MOON BAY

Half Moon Bay is the oldest town in San Mateo County and saddled right along Highway 1. A day out to Half Moon Bay means chilling on one of its many popular beaches and gulping down some of the best chowder that you can find in Northern California!

Home to the world famous Mavericks beach (where surfers compete annually at the Big Wave competition) is here but it is a bit off route from Highway 1, Half Moon Bay also boasts of several beaches right off Highway 1 such as Redondo Beach, Pillar Point Beach, Poplar Beach, Mirada Surf Beach, Dunes beach, Roosevelt beach, Surfer’s Beach and Miramar Beach. My favorite? Pillar Point Beach – it is right next to the harbor and Sam’s Chowder House.

I’d be remiss if I did not include the many beautiful coastal trails that Half Moon Bay is blessed with. The most scenic one is undoubtedly the California Coastal Trail, a 1200 mile trail stretching from Oregon to Mexico along the coast that passes through Half Moon Bay, revealing spectacular views. Get on this dog friendly trail from the Poplar Beach parking lot and walk towards Pillar Point Beach in the north.

If you love seafood, check out the offerings at Sam’s Chowder House or Miramar Beach Restaurant which are famous for their fresh catches and chowder. Downtown Half Moon Bay is super nice with lots of restaurants and cute stores to keep you busy.

FILOLI HISTORIC HOUSE AND GARDENS

Distance: 31 miles

Photo credit

If you’re a nature or plant lover, then a visit to the Filoli Historic House and Gardens is one of those day trips from San Jose that you should not miss at any cost! Located in Woodside in the Peninsula and open daily from 10AM-5PM, this 20th century estate property hosts a spectacular garden that comes alive with a riot of floral colors and fragrant fruits in Spring and Summer.

The estate is home to the grand, opulent resident of William Bourn (owner of Empire Mine and San Francisco Gas Company) and his wife Agnes. Designed by architect Willis Polk, the house spans over a whopping 54000 square foot with 56 rooms! Even more impressive is the 16 acre garden with over 75,000 spring bulbs planted and 250 fruit trees, all of which are tended to by 14 horticulturists! The estate itself is a sprawling 654 acres with 577 fruit trees in its orchards.

Filoli Gardens is a treat for the botanical lover in you and a perfect way to get lost in the nurturing beauty of nature amongst the urban sprawl of the Bay Area. Currently, visits are by reservation only and you can book your tickets here .

SAN JOSE DAY TRIPS (SANTA CRUZ COUNTY)

Big basin redwoods state park.

Distance: 28 miles

Photo Credit

Big Basin Redwoods State Park is California’s oldest state park and is home to the largest continuous stand of ancient redwoods, with 18,000 acres of old growth and recovering Redwood forests to be found south of San Francisco . Elevations in the park vary quite a bit from the sea level to over 2,000 feet. Beside a day of hiking and relaxing at Waddell beach, a visit to the fascinating Rancho del Oso Nature and History Center should be on your list.

Like the Giant Coastal Redwoods in Humboldt County that you’ll encounter on a Northern California road trip , some of the trees here are more than 300 feet tall and 50 feet in circumference, with some as ancient as 1,000 to 2,500 years. The park is partially open in 2022 as it continues to recover from the devastating California wildfires of 2020.

SANTA CRUZ (ONE OF THE BEST DAY TRIPS FROM SAN JOSE)

Natural Bridges beach and state park in Santa Cruz

Visiting the charming beach town of Santa Cruz is hands down one of the easiest and best day trips from San Jose . In just about 40 minutes, you will end up on the Central Coast in this vibrant town boasting of world famous beaches, lots of surfing action, whale watching activities from the harbor, scenic hikes, lighthouses perched on the coast, a bustling downtown, tons of good restaurants and cafes and a mind blowing wine region in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

The geographical diversity of Santa Cruz is mind-boggling to say the least. From beaches to misty mountains to Coastal Redwood groves (Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park), Santa Cruz has something for everyone. The year round mild weather makes it a fantastic winter getaway in California and one that you can visit with family members of all ages.

Santa Cruz is also a great dog friendly getaway in Northern California , thanks to its dog friendly hikes, beaches and restaurants. You can read my Santa Cruz guide (dog friendly) and where to eat in Santa Cruz for your trip inspiration.

I personally recommend visiting Santa Cruz in winter (Nov-Feb) to catch the Monarch butterflies flock to the Eucalyptus grove next to Natural bridges State Beach for their wintering ritual. Also, Winter and Spring are (Dec-April) are perfect to see the migratory whales from boats and trailers departing the Santa Cruz harbor.

For a day of fun, hop onto the Roaring Camp train for the time of your life! The train has two routes-one that takes you through the Henry Cowell Redwoods up to Bear mountain and the other being a coastal route from the Santa Cruz mountains to the beach boardwalk.

CAPITOLA, SOQUEL, APTOS

This tiny beach town in Santa Cruz county lies just outside the city of Santa Cruz and is famous for the row of colorful homes, aptly titled “The Venetians” that line one end of Monterey Bay and form a pretty sight when viewed from the Capitola State Beach or the boardwalk.

Capitola Wharf is a lively place with restaurants and stores showcasing local artists. I highly recommend checking two stores on Capitola Avenue: Lumen art gallery featuring eclectic, local California art and home decor as well the Ethos Santa Cruz shop dedicated to helping people move towards a zero waste lifestyle and less plastic usage.

Soquel and Aptos are two other nearby towns in Santa Cruz county that have some really good restaurants and wineries. In fact, Soquel is home to Bargetto winery which is the oldest one in Santa Cruz county while Aptos has some splendid beaches such as Seacliff State Beach.

DAY TRIP IDEAS FROM SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA (CENTRAL COAST)

Distance: 72 miles

Monterey Harbor, Monterey is an excellent day trip idea from San Jose

Monterey County is ideal for day trips from San Jose since there is so much to see and do here, especially on the Peninsula. The largest and most popular spot here is undoubtedly the erstwhile fish canning town of Monterey, made famous in the novel “ Cannery Row ” of John Steinbeck ( the author was born and raised in nearby Salinas which is home to a museum dedicated to him).

A day out at Monterey means a quick photo-op at the Cannery Row (it is very touristy so please come in early to park), strolling the historic Old Fisherman’s Wharf, visiting the world famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, dipping your feet in the sand at its many beaches (Monterey state beach, Del Monte Beach or San Carlos Beach at Monterey harbor) and doing some serious whale watching throughout the year via Monterey Bay Whale Watch that departs from the Wharf!

Monterey has a thriving dining scene replete with the freshest seafood, bakeries and even a vegan Mexican restaurant on the waterfront! My favorites are Parker Lusseau pastries , Alta Bakery and Cafe , Old Fisherman’s Grotto and Monterey’s Fish House .

PACIFIC GROVE

Pacific Grove is right next to Monterey and is another coastal town on the Peninsula that deserves a day trip of its own to explore. My number one recommendation would be to visit Pacific Grove in late spring (aka April-May) when the coast gets covered by a purple blanket of blooming ice plant flowers. This sea of purple is a sight to behold as you walk along the coast. You can read details on my Pacific Grove post here .

My other favorites things to do in Pacific Grove are walking down Ocean View Boulevard starting from Lover’s Point Park, visiting Point Pinos Lighthouse (the oldest continuously operated lighthouse in California), visiting Asilomar State Beach, checking out the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary (Dec-Feb) and enjoying some tasty seafood at Passion Fish. If you’re a nature lover, stop by the Natural history museum in downtown to learn more about the flora and fauna of the central coast, especially the migratory Monarch butterflies.

CARMEL BY THE SEA

Distance: 75 miles

Carmel by the Sea is a mere 10 minute drive from Monterey but feels like a totally different world! This coastal town feels like a fairy tale European village with Tudor style homes and cottages all around, not to mention the cute as heck downtown where you can easily get lost in the flower ladled cobbled bylanes. For those of you couples coming in from San Jose, Carmel also doubles up as an excellent Northern California romantic getaway.

A San Jose day trip to Carmel is actually very doable if you start in early so that you can have ample time to park and explore downtown. Since I have visited Carmel at least a dozen times over my 12 years of living in San Francisco, you can read my crazy detailed guide to Carmel to plan your trip.

The short version is that explore downtown, walk down Ocean Avenue to Carmel Beach, discover the whimsical fairytale cottages, explore the art galleries and enjoy the food and wine in one of the many cafes, restaurants and tasting rooms in downtown. I recommend my favorite La Bicyclette, Stationery (great for brunch), La Balena and Cultura Comida y Bebida as must visits.

When in Carmel (or Monterey or Pacific Grove), try to squeeze in a few hours to explore the iconic 17 mile drive looping between these towns. This drive takes you through several scenic stops, viewpoints and beaches-the most famous being the Lone Cypress and Pebble Beach.

Right outside of Carmel lies the magical Point Lobos State Natural Reserve which deserves a day trip of its own, thanks to its pristine beauty, beaches and hikes. You could spend a few hours in downtown Carmel, stop by the famous Carmel Mission and then enter the Reserve ($10/vehicle) for hiking and scenic views.

Pro tip: Fireworks are prohibited in Carmel over the July 4 weekend. So if you’re wondering where to take your dog on 4th July , escape to this seaside town.

CARMEL VALLEY

Distance: 78 miles

Carmel by the Sea is super popular as a Bay Area day trip for many, but diehard wine lovers make it to Carmel valley in Monterey Peninsula.With dozens of wineries and tasting rooms, Carmel Valley village will make your day trip from San Jose a fantastic mini wine vacation! Carve out your day at Carmel Valley with this my detailed guide on where to go wine tasting, dining and having a good time!

PINNACLES NATIONAL PARK

Distance: 76 miles

Pinnacles National Park is the smallest (and also the one most recently designated) National Park in California and is located inland in Monterey county. Pinnacles is known for its unique Geologic Landscape born out of tectonic plate activity and volcanic action-leading to the formation of the unique spires or “Pinnacles” towering solemnly over the earth. Besides these obvious geologic structures, this park is also famous for its talus caves and condor sightings and is popular with rock climbers, much like Joshua Tree National Park .

A day trip from San Jose to Pinnacles means leaving early and arriving either at the Pinnacles Visitor Center on the East entrance or driving further south to Soledad to access the park from the West Entrance. Trails from both entrances lead to Talus caves and more strenuous hikes into the High Peaks for condor spotting. Read my complete guide to Pinnacles National Park to plan your trip today!

Distance: 110 miles

Big Sur is that 90 miles of California’s central coast that has been immortalized in prose and poetry and is one of the most scenic drives in the world. However covering Big Sur as a day trip from San Jose is definitely stretching things a little bit where you are going WAY over the 2 hour driving time.

A complete Big Sur road trip from San Jose is something I would 100% advise against, but that does not mean that you shouldn’t venture out on Highway 1 and cover a few major stops.

The only issue is that once you get onto Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1/Cabrillo Highway) after Carmel, then you cannot get onto any other freeway till you hit San Simeon, 90 miles south! So pick a few stops beyond Carmel judiciously so that you have a relaxing time on your day trip from San Jose.

My recommendation to experience Big Sur as a day trip from San Jose would be to make a hard stop at Partington Cove Trailhead and turning back. Upto this point, you will get to spend time at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve (one of the many romantic stops at Big Sur ), Garrapata State Park and Beach (with the Calla Lilies blooming in spring in the adjacent valley), Bixby Bridge, Andrew Molera State Park, Pfeiffer Beach (with purple sand), Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and Henry Miller Memorial Library. Big Sur Bakery and Nepenthe are two excellent places to stop by for lunch.

And that brings me to the end of this post on some of the best day trips from San Jose that you can explore on weekends! I hope you liked this list of destinations to check out as San Jose day trips and have made some fantastic weekend plans already! Thanks a lot for stopping by and safe travels.

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Looking for fun day trips from San Jose, California? Then read this post on 20 such day trip ideas from Silicon Valley with driving time under 2 hours with recommendations on what to see, do and eat! Pin this to your USA board now! #bayarea #California #Sanjose #Siliconvalley #daytrips #USA #NorthAmerica #Sanjosecalifornia

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Great Blog!!!! Helps a lot in planning local trips.

These Are the Best Frequent Flier Programs of 2024

Only the best will do.

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Summer vacation is just around the corner, which means many of you will be taking to the skies to get to your dream destinations. But, before you do, make sure to sign up for a frequent flier program to ensure you maximize those travel benefits. But, which one should you be signing up for exactly? WalletHub has the answer.

The personal finance website released its report on the 2024 Best Frequent Flier Programs . The report ranks the 10 largest domestic airlines based on 21 key metrics, including everything from the "value of a point/mile" to "blackout dates for reward flights." The team also created three distinct consumer profiles, a "Light Flier," who spends roughly $355 on annual airline travel, an "Average Flier," who spends roughly $3,736 on annual airline travel, and a "Frequent Flier," who spends $7,117 on annual airline travel, so see how each program pans out for every traveler.

After looking at all the data, WalletHub named Alaska Airline's program the best in the business.

"Alaska Mileage Plan is the best frequent flier program of 2024, beating last year’s winner United MileagePlus," WalletHub wrote in its findings. The airline won thanks to its policy to never allow miles to expire, its high number of destinations and partner airlines, and the value earned by every category of traveler (light, average, and frequent).

It was joined in the top five programs by United Airlines and its MileagePlus program in second, followed by Delta Air Lines' SkyMiles, Hawaiian Airlines' HawaiianMiles, and American Airlines' AAdvantage.

The good news is, no matter which program you choose you'll likely be winning. According to WalletHub, seven of the 10 largest airlines are "offering more rewards value in 2024 than in 2023. On average, the top 10 airlines are offering 18 percent more value than they did last year."

"For any good and sustainable airline rewards program, it has to be a win-win situation. Consumers get perks such as priority boarding and free check-in luggage; gradually, they become more loyal to that specific airline, make more purchases, and spread more positive Word of Mouth over time," Wan Yang, an associate professor and associate editor of International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management, The Collins College of Hospitality Management, shared in the findings about what makes one program better than another. "Meanwhile, they will accumulate more miles with that company, which makes 'switching brands' more costly. Eventually, the airline company will gain great long-term benefits from those loyal consumers, also known as more 'Lifetime Value' from consumers."

Beyond the study, WalletHub also shared a custom calculator that allows travelers to personalize the results of the best frequent flier programs based on their own budget. This way, you can always pick the one that's right for you.

Asia Pacific Gen-Zs and Millenials Seek to Unlock Value and Maximize Travel Experience With One Loyalty Program

Regional survey by marriott bonvoy uncovers key traits of travel-oriented, value-driven gen-zs and millennials.

A survey by Marriott Bonvoy, the award-winning travel program of Marriott International, has found that a majority of Gen Zs and Millennials in Asia Pacific excluding China (APEC) prefer the simplicity of belonging to one comprehensive loyalty travel program.

While 60% of APEC Gen Zs and Millennials are actively subscribed to loyalty programs, the challenge of juggling several loyalty programs has led most (57%) to seek out one program that meets all their travel needs. Marriott Bonvoy carried out the survey of 1,000 respondents across ten markets in APEC to better understand the shifting attitudes of Millennials and Gen Zs and their travel behaviors. The survey identified an emerging generation of travel-focused, value-driven " Savvy Explorers " in APEC who seek to maximize their travel dollars and unique travel experiences.

Travel in 2024 is a priority for Gen Zs and Millennials: 73% report their intentions to take at least two trips in the next 12 months and 91% plan to spend the same, if not more, on their trips compared to the year before. Travel is viewed as an essential lifestyle component, and most are willing to reduce everyday spending on dining out (60%), shopping sprees (57%) and their daily coffee (54%) so as to spend more on a holiday.

“Survey results suggest that Gen Zs and Millennials in APEC are purposefully strategizing how they can channel value from their everyday spend toward rewarding travel experiences. They also prefer to be part of only one all-encompassing loyalty travel program which fulfills their needs. To this end, Marriott Bonvoy – which gives members access to over 30 brands in 10,000 destinations -- is well positioned to deliver greater value and unlock more experiences for Gen Zs and Millennials,” says John Toomey, Marriott International’s Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, Asia Pacific excluding China .

“As testament to the program’s appeal, we have seen Marriott Bonvoy’s membership base in APEC grow by more than 50% since 2019. What’s more encouraging is that our members are highly active. They earned 40% more points in 2023 compared to 2022, and are putting their points to good use, with points redemptions increasing by more than 55% in the same period,” he reveals.

The trend of greater member growth and activity extends to the Marriott Bonvoy app. APEC member enrolment via digital channels grew by more than 25%, with mobile app downloads and active users more than doubling in 2023 compared to pre-pandemic levels.

The regional survey also uncovered notable trends amongst Gen Zs and Millennials across the 10 APEC countries. Market-specific trends can be found in Annex A.

Travel value unlocked through everyday spend Savvy Explorers take considered steps to unlock travel value through everyday spend. Leveraging on their familiarity with loyalty programs, APEC’s Gen Z and Millennials employ varied tactics to maximize their travel rewards: four in five say they have gone out of their way to use a travel-linked credit card for everyday purchases, and 67% actively use a travel loyalty program to book and redeem local experiences and staycations.

This trend is supported by usage behaviors of Marriott Bonvoy members in APEC. They accumulated points from stays across more than 8,800 Marriott International properties globally, and through everyday spend. Redemption for hotel stays in 2023 registered a 130% increase compared to pre-pandemic times, accounting for the majority of redemptions, followed by points-to-miles conversions on partner airlines.

Hotels become a key destination to explore Hotel experience is key to winning the hearts and dollars of the Gen Z and Millennial segment, with 99% of respondents believing their hotel choice can make or break their holiday. Hotels are also increasingly viewed as a key destination for exploration, going beyond the role of ‘accommodation’. Nearly four in five respondents expect their hotel to provide curated local programming and experiences, whilst 84% prefer to stay at a hotel with designs and activities reflective of its destination.

The recent debut of Moxy Hotels – noted for its hallmark playful nature, innovative design and contemporary amenities – in key APEC markets exemplifies Marriott International’s commitment to continuously bring new hospitality experiences to the region.

Despite a desire to maximize their travel budgets where they can, their hotel is one area that APEC’s Gen Z and Millennials are willing to invest extra travel dollars towards. Top motivations for new-generation travelers to splurge include the hotel’s room offerings (48%) and location (42%). Whilst amenities remain key considerations, these guests value a seamless travel experience, with mobile-first customer service (61%), reliable WiFi (68%) and flexible check-out (64%) outpacing traditional benefits like lounge access (42%).

Destination ‘dupes’ fuel intra-regional travel demand International travel has returned but APEC’s Gen Z and Millennials remain committed to destinations closer to home. While iconic holiday locations like the Swiss Alps and Bora Bora maintain their appeal, 55% are opting for destinations within the region that provide a similar experience. These so-called “destination dupes” are fast gaining traction amongst this segment because they allow Gen Zs and Millennials to stretch their travel expenses (69%), discover something new (63%) and are easily accessible (62%).

As a reflection of robust intra-regional travel demand in 2023, Marriott International saw over 60% of bookings in APEC coming from within the region.

Corporate backpackers on the rise Gen Zs and Millennials are also taking bleisure travel up a notch by capitalizing on the opportunity of a business trip to embark on multi-destination tours. In addition to extending their travel plans (68%), 84% plan to explore nearby cities and countries as part of their post-work itinerary.

With more than 560 properties across 24 brands in 22 countries and territories in APEC to choose from, Marriott International offers customers a myriad of options to mix work with pleasure.

Off-peak travel maximizes destination experience Gen Zs and Millennials are also carefully planning when to travel to maximize their trip experience. The majority (71%) of Gen Z and Millennials say they would opt to travel during off-peak seasons so as to beat the crowds and get more out of their trip. 67% feel they can do more during low-peak seasons, and 77% leave their holidays feeling more relaxed and rejuvenated.

Where Marriott Bonvoy Can Take You Marriott Bonvoy allows members to earn when they stay or spend at Marriott International’s growing portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands across 139 countries and territories, and in over 8,800 properties. In APEC, members can benefit from the program’s key strategic partnerships with Singapore Airlines and co-branded credits cards in Japan, Korea and India. With Marriott Bonvoy Moments, members can get access to once-in-lifetime experiences such the opportunity to get closer to the action with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team at the Singapore Grand Prix.

Note to Editor Findings are from a commissioned survey by Marriott International conducted in April 2024 on 1000 Gen Z (18 – 24 years old) and Millennials (25 – 41 years old) based in Japan, Korea, India, Australia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam and the Philippines, who would budget for their own travels.

The term ‘Savvy Explorers’ refers to Gen Z and millennial travelers who continue to prioritize travel as a key part of their lifestyle and are always on the lookout for ways in which they can maximize and value add to their planned trips through curated accommodations, key experiences and new destinations.

Refer to Annex A for additional data on the preferences of new generation travelers across the APEC region.

Annex A: 10 Fun Facts About New-generation Travelers Across the APEC Region

Most likely to sacrifice dining out for a holiday are Australian (76%), Japanese (74%) and Indonesian (68%) travelers. Despite their renown for culinary diversity, majority would prefer to reduce eating out over giving up other everyday luxuries like monthly subscriptions.
Most frequent travelers in APEC are Southeast Asia’s Gen Z and Millennials, with over a third planning to take more than three trips in the next 12 months. Indonesian (51%), Thai (39%) and Filipino (34%) travelers set to outpace others within the region.
Top intra-regional travelers are Japanese (71%), Thai (69%) and South Korean (66%) Gen Z and Millennials who prefer holidaying closer to home. However, bucking the trend are Indian and Filipino travelers, with over 60% opting for faraway destinations.
Top off-peak travelers are Japanese (87%), Australian (81%) and Singaporean (79%) Millennials and Gen Zs. Interestingly, set to drive the high seasons are Indian travelers, with 58% preferring to travel during peak periods.
Most discerning when choosing their hotel are Indonesian, Thai and Vietnamese Gen Z and Millennials, with an overwhelming 90% preferring hotel programming and design that are reflective of the local destination and/or are environmentally friendly.
Top motivators to splurge on travel for Australian, Indonesian and Singaporean Gen Z and Millennials are quality factors such as hotel reputation and location. In contrast, Japanese and Vietnamese travelers place greater weightage on experiences such as in-hotel dining (Japan: 59%, Vietnam: 47%), whilst Thais prioritize hotel aesthetics (41%).
Top countries for business travel include Vietnam (85%), India (81%) and Indonesia (78%). Over 80% are also likely to extend their business trips for leisure (Vietnam: 82%, India: 83%, Indonesia: 80%).
Most valuable travel benefits to APEC’s Gen Z and Millennials are elevated hotel experiences like complimentary dining, spa and room upgrades. Nearly two in three Indian travelers (67%) were also likely to redeem unique travel experiences, whilst over half of Thai travelers (51%) would prefer to receive exclusive merchandise.

About Marriott Bonvoy ® Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with 31 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com .

Media Contact Mabel Lee Director of Communications Marriott International, Asia Pacific excluding China [email protected]

Kiran Hans Sr. Manager, Communications Marriott International, Asia Pacific excluding China [email protected]

Marriott Bonvoy World Elite and World Mastercards

Green search engine Ecosia launches a cross-platform browser

Ecosia , the search engine that funds tree-planting initiatives with a portion of its search ad profits, has launched a new cross-platform browser to grow its online footprint.

The new browser, available for Mac, Windows, iOS and Android, is built on top of Google’s open source browser project Chromium, which explains why there aren’t many differences to Google’s own Chrome browser.

However, the Germany-based company sees that as a good thing, as users might be more tempted to switch if the experience they’re accustomed to is similar. Ecosia does allow the user to customize the landing page, and remove sections that aren’t to their liking, such as top sites or the climate impact widget.

Image Credits: Ecosia

Sustainability

Michael Metcalf, Ecosia’s chief product officer, told TechCrunch that the company expanded into browsers so that it could grow its sustainability pledge.

“The main reason we are building a browser is because we want to go where our users are and start to expand the footprint of where they can be sustainable,” Metcalf said. “Right now, our main use case is around search, but we want to expand into parts of browsing experiences.”

With this new browser, Ecosia is also starting an affiliate shopping program, meaning that users will see links to shopping sites such as Amazon, eBay and Decathlon under the sponsored links section. The company said all the money earned through affiliate revenues will go toward planting trees and backing similar green projects. Through this kind of investment, Ecosia has committed to generating 25Wh of clean energy per user each day.

Metcalf said that while the company promotes lower consumption, it’s acutely aware that consumers like to shop online. With the affiliate program, they have an opportunity to give back. In the future, the company also wants to improve the affiliate shopping interface, integrate its AI chatbot and introduce more customization to the browser.

Acknowledging that it’s tough to get users to switch browsers, the company is initially targeting its existing search engine user base of 20 million, while it will also increase its marketing targeted at consumers who already demonstrate an affinity with the “green” cause. The company said that it was happy with the retention rate in its early beta testing, but it wouldn’t share any data on the impact on Ecosia search traffic resulting from those using the new browser.

Ecosia made a few structural changes to its search engine last year . After years of using Bing as its sole search provider, the company started experimenting with Google Search in markets like Canada, New Zealand, Brazil and the Philippines. The company uses System1 , an ad tech company that syndicates search results from Microsoft Bing, Startpage and Info.com.

Earlier this year, Ecosia also crossed the mark of planting more than 200 million trees across 95,000 locales globally.

Ecosia adds a train travel search tool powered by Omio

Last Updated On
September 5, 2023

25 Best Day Trips From San Jose — Places Nearby!

San Jose is a gorgeous treasure chest of culture and tech wrapped up in the cozy blanket of NorCal’s weather.

But sometimes, you just have to break free and inhale something different.

And guess what?

San Jose is your best friend in that regard.

What’s the catch?

The city is close to an array of picture-perfect spots within a few hours of driving.

I’ve wandered through these places myself.

So trust me when I say they’re worth every minute of your time.

I did you a solid and curated this little gem of a list featuring the best day trips from San Jose.

You’ll also get some tips on what to do, see, and eat at each destination.

Ready to discover some hidden gems and have some fun?

Then keep reading because you don’t want to miss these spots.

Best Day Trips From San Jose Compared

If you’re looking for a change of scenery from the hustle and bustle of San Jose, you’re in luck.

These are some of the most amazing places to explore from the city.

Editor’s Choice

Silicon Valley

Silicon Valley is renowned for being home to many global and start-up technology companies.

Family friendliness: 4/5
Safety: 4/5
Affordability: 3/5
Accessibility: 5/5
Fun factor: 5/5

#2nd Best Choice

Muir Woods is a National Monument that’s been protecting redwoods since 1908.

Family friendliness: 5/5
Safety: 5/5
Accessibility: 3/5
Fun factor: 4/5

#3rd Best Choice

San Francisco

San Francisco is the financial, commercial, and cultural center of Northern California.

Accessibility: 4/5

Here are the top 25 day trips from San Jose.

1. Silicon Valley (Editor’s Choice)

Silicon Valley, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

Technological hub: Silicon Valley is known for its high-tech companies and startup concentration.
Educational opportunities: The area is home to prestigious universities and research institutions, offering opportunities for educational visits, lectures, and workshops.
Lack of natural attractions: Silicon Valley is primarily known for its technology industry and urban environment, so it doesn’t offer as many natural attractions.
Traffic Congestion: The area can experience heavy traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, which may impact travel time and convenience.

It takes about 40 minutes to drive from San Jose to this attraction.

Who doesn’t want to learn more about where Facebook, Apple, and Google came from, right?

Visit the Facebook Headquarters and take a picture with the thumbs-up sign.

Then take a tour of Stanford University and its beautiful campus.

Or get your inner car geek out and test drive a car from the Tesla Motors ShowRoom.

And finally, learn about how technology advanced this much at the Computer History Museum.

This museum is right next to Google’s headquarters, so it’s like hitting two birds with one stone.

This is one of the many San Jose day trips worth checking out if you’re techy.

Recommended Hotel: The Ameswell Hotel

Related: Beaches Near San Jose

2. Muir Woods

1 Muir Woods Rd Mill Valley, CA 94941 (415) 561-2850 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Scenic beauty: Muir Woods is renowned for its majestic redwood trees and picturesque forest trails.
Wildlife viewing: The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including various bird species and unique forest-dwelling creatures.
Limited accessibility: Muir Woods is located outside of San Francisco and requires transportation, which can be challenging for those without a vehicle.
Parking: Parking can be difficult in the area and may require a reservation.

This trip will take 1 hour and 27 minutes to complete from San Jose, but it’s worth every second.

Walk among the oldest redwood trees in the country, and breathe in that fresh air.

It’s like stepping into a Star Wars movie set and is a magical park for releasing negative energy.

Attend The Park Ranger Presentation to learn about being safe as you take your trek through the forest.

One of the visitors’ favorite spots is Cathedral Grove, a quiet and still portion of the forest.

Take in the fantastic sights of the looming trees, take pictures, and indulge in nature’s grandeur.

3. San Francisco

San Francisco, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Iconic landmarks: San Francisco is known for its iconic landmarks, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf.
Cultural diversity: The city is famous for its diverse communities, vibrant arts scene, and culinary delights, offering a rich cultural experience for visitors.
Higher costs: Accommodation, dining, and entertainment options can be relatively expensive compared to other destinations.
Weather Variability: San Francisco’s weather can be unpredictable, with fog, wind, and temperature fluctuations.

It’s only an hour’s drive from San Jose and is a bustling city worth visiting.

You can’t visit San Francisco without checking out the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

This bridge is the world’s most-photographed bridge, and for a good reason.

Take a tour of Alcatraz Island and learn about how it used to hold some of the most infamous criminals in the world.

Pier 39 is also a popular destination, especially when it comes to playful, barking sea lions.

Take a relaxing stroll along Golden Gate Park and its groves of trees, rolling hills, and hidden treasures.

Finally, visit the Ferry Building Marketplace to get into the heart of San Francisco and its love for art and cuisine.

This city is one of the top places to see near San Jose for apparent reasons.

Related: Activities in San Jose

4. Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay, CA (650) 726-8380 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Half Moon Bay is a small city located on the California coast, known for its string of beaches.

This trip will only take 47 minutes and is one of the most scenic places near San Jose.

Visit one of Half Moon Bay’s four beaches to appreciate the gorgeous scenery and breathe fresh air.

Go hiking or biking through the California Coastal Trail, where you’re greeted with even more picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean.

Then visit Pillar Point Harbor for whale-watching during whale migration season.

There are also plenty of waterfront restaurants in this area, such as Barbara’s Fishtrap or Sam’s Chowder House.

Regardless of what you decide to do, this makes a beautiful one day trip from San Jose to destress.

Napa, CA (707) 257-9500 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Napa Valley is located in California and is well known for its climate, which is ideal for growing grape vines.

This drive will take an hour and 22 minutes from San Jose, and it’s worth every second.

Play a game of outdoor bocce ball at one of its parks.

Then see the scenery from a hot air balloon flying high above the valley floor.

Take the Napa Valley Wine Train to dine and sip on wine while passing through gorgeous vineyards.

Or enjoy a downtown Napa walking tour to check out the cute boutique shops and restaurants .

Finally, explore the di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art to see local and international art pieces displayed.

If you’re looking for places to visit near San Jose, you might love Napa.

Also See: Day Trips Around San Francisco Fun Day Trips From San Diego Best Day Trips From Orange County, CA

Gilroy, CA (408) 842-6436 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Gilroy is a city in Santa Clara County, best known for the annual Gilroy Garlic Festival that started in 1979.

This city is a mere 34-minute drive from San Jose and is perfect for a weekend getaway.

Visit the Gilroy Garden for the funkiest trees and over 40 fun rides and attractions.

These are some of the best fun activities you can do with kids from San Jose.

Discover award-winning wines and sip on a glass while admiring the vineyard views.

If you happen to be visiting during August, you’ll want to buckle up for the Gilroy Rodeo and its horses.

Head to Downtown Gilroy to find antique treasures or find gold at Casa de Fruta.

And as strange as it sounds, try the infamous Gilroy garlic ice cream when in town.

7. Livermore

Livermore, CA (925) 960-4000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Livermore is a scenic wine-growing region located east of the San Francisco Bay area.

This trip will take only about 39 minutes, so it’s perfect for a one day trip from San Jose.

Explore over 50 wineries in Livermore Valley, and go hiking and biking through the gorgeous green valley.

The Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Discovery Center offers plenty of hands-on fun activities for kids and adults.

Or have a relaxing picnic at the Sycamore Grove Regional Park, with plenty of trails for hiking.

Then enjoy a dance or comedy show (even acrobatics) at the Bankhead Theater before calling it a day.

Also See: Best Day Trips From Fresno, CA Fun Day Trips From Lake Tahoe Day Trips Around Santa Barbara

8. Sausalito

Sausalito, CA (415) 289-4100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Sausalito is a city in Marin County known for its scenic wooden boardwalk.

It will take you about an hour and 14 minutes to drive here, and it is one of the San Jose trips you don’t want to miss.

Check out the Bay Area Discovery Museum for fascinating interactive exhibits your kids will love.

Then look out at the stunning views of the Golden State Bridge and the ocean from the observation deck on Battery Spencer.

Finally, walk through the iconic Sausalito Boardwalk to check out boutique shops and renowned restaurants.

If you’re looking for things to do outside San Jose, you’ll find a thing or two here.

9. Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, CA (831) 420-5010 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Santa Cruz is a relaxing beach town located on the Pacific Coast, known for its family-friendly activities.

It’s only 40 minutes south of San Jose, so it’s perfect for that family weekend getaway.

Visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for thrilling rides, fantastic food, and unforgettable memories.

This is one of the best day trips from San Jose for families that you could take.

Then visit the Natural Bridges State Beach, which has fantastic photo opportunities with stunning rock formations.

The Mystery Spot is a relaxing secluded beach you could check out for a fun swim.

Then indulge in the vibrant colors of plants and flowers at the UC Santa Cruz Arboretum & Botanic Garden.

End your day with sunset viewing at the Santa Cruz Wharf, and you’ve got the perfect daycation.

Recommended Hotel: Dream Inn Santa Cruz

10. Carmel by the Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA (831) 624-2522 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Carmel by the Sea is a quaint beach city located on the Monterey Peninsula.

It’s known for the museums and libraries of the historic Carmel Mission.

This city attraction is an hour and 16 minutes away from San Jose during regular traffic.

The Carmel Mission Basilica Museum is a stunning basilica dating back hundreds of years that you must visit.

For beautiful views and fresh air, head to the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.

The Carmel River State Beach is also fantastic for swimming, picnics, and sun tanning.

Finish it with a meal at the Mission Ranch Restaurant for the best views.

Recommended Hotel: Tradewinds Carmel

11. Alameda

Alameda, CA (510) 747-4714 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Alameda is a city located in the East Bay region of the Bay Area and is known for its beaches.

This charming city is only a 43-minute drive from San Jose, so it’s perfect for a quick getaway.

Check out the fascinating metal birds of the skies at the USS Hornet-Sea, Air, and Space Museum.

Spend a few hours sun tanning, picnicking, swimming, or biking at the Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach.

Or visit the Pacific Pinball Museum to see the first editions of the classic game to exist.

End your day with a movie at the Alameda Theatre and Cineplex.

And you’ve just accomplished one of the most romantic day trips from San Jose for couples.

12. West Cliff Drive

W Cliff Dr Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (831) 425-1234 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

The West Cliff Drive is a scenic path along the Pacific Ocean with views of Monterey Bay.

It’s a quick 55-minute drive from San Jose, so prepare your road tunes and snacks.

Take a 5-mile walk to admire the sight of waves crashing into the shoreline and the Pacific Ocean beyond.

See Steamer Lane to watch surfers do what they do best, or join them yourself.

Then visit the Lighthouse along the way, which is now the Santa Cruz Surfers Museum.

Go for a walk with your dog, go biking, skating, jogging, or take pictures.

There’s plenty to do at their relaxing spot, and it’s no wonder it gets so many visitors.

13. Monterey

Monterey, CA (831) 646-3799 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Monterey is a seaside town in Northern California and has been a tourist destination since the 1700s.

This city is a 1-hour and 12-minute drive from Santa Fe, so you should head out early.

Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium to see fascinating sea creatures.

You’ll even get the chance to feed them and touch others.

The Old Fisherman’s Wharf is an iconic waterside complex with seafood restaurants, shops, and water activities galore.

Then check out Dennis The Menace Playground to have your kids enjoy the maze, rock climbing wall, and more.

Take a stroll through Cannery Row, where you’ll find historic buildings housing old sardine-canning factories.

You’ll also come across boutiques and restaurants here, so it’s a great way to live in a local’s shoes.

14. Berkeley

Berkeley, CA (510) 549-7040 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Berkeley is a city in Northern California known as the birthplace of the 1960 Free Speech Movement.

The drive from San Jose will only take about 56 minutes during normal traffic.

Visit the gorgeous and magnificent Botanical Garden at the University of California.

This garden features more than 10,000 plants worldwide and is even more stunning during the fall season.

Enjoy panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay Bridges, Alcatraz, and Angel Island from the Berkeley Marina.

Then enter a magical fantasy land at the Tilden Regional Park, which also features plenty of activities.

There are nearly 40 miles of hiking trails to explore, a golf course, and Lake Anza, where you can swim during spring and summer.

15. Pescadero

Pescadero, CA Visit Website Open in Google Maps

A small rural town in Northern California, Pescadero is only 2 miles from the Pacific Ocean.

This town is 1 hour and 19 minutes away from San Jose and is worth every second.

Visit Harley Farms to say hello to the cutest goats and donkeys.

Or sit for a picnic around the pond and browse the farm shop for homemade products.

For wine enthusiasts, check out the Pescadero Winery for a wine tasting paired with award-winning goat cheese.

Head to the Pigeon Point Lighthouse to go whale watching from the deck while enjoying the stunning views.

Then enjoy the multi-colored pebbles at Bean Hollow State Beach.

You can explore tide pools while looking for starfish, sea urchins, sea anemones, and crabs during low tide.

Recommended Hotel: Pescadero Creek Inn

16. Ano Nuevo State Park

1 New Years Creek Rd Pescadero, CA 94060 (650) 879-2025 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ano Nuevo State Park is located offshore the Ano Nuevo Island, known for its pinniped rookeries.

It’s a 1-hour and 19-minute drive from San Jose, so it’s not that bad.

This beach is not only home to gorgeous views of white cliffs but a cute little surprise as well.

Year-round, you’ll see elephant seals wash up on shore to soak in some sun.

There are also plenty of trails around you could take for a hike so you could see more views.

There’s also a lighthouse from the 1800s you could visit.

17. Bodega Bay

Bodega Bay, CA (707) 347-9645 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Bodega Bay is a village in Sonoma County known as the home of Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds.

This quirky and friendly town is located 2 hours and 5 minutes away from San Jose, so you’ll need snacks on the road.

This town is jammed with biking and hiking trails that offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

You can head to its nearby beaches to swim, have a picnic, or fly a kite.

Visit the Bodega Head Peninsula to go whale-watching and watch the magnificent creature break the water’s surface.

If you’re feeling adventurous, Ace It Bike Tours offers a fun tour that lets you explore the area and learn about its history as you go.

You can also explore the beauty of Bodega Bay by kayaking or paddling around on a stand-up paddle board.

Then rent a horse from Chanslor Stables and ride into the sunset and ocean views.

18. Bodega Dunes

3095 California 1 Bodega Bay, CA 94923 (707) 875-3483 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Bodega Dunes is a beachside strip offering 99 campsites and a boardwalk overlooking a sandy beach.

This fun attraction is about 2 hours and 11 minutes away from San Jose.

You don’t have to spend the night to visit this campground, and it’s just as much fun during the day.

Take a hike through Kortum Trail and take in the scenic views.

Then bring your camera to the peak of Duncan’s Landing to watch the ocean and marine life.

You can also go swimming, have a picnic, or indulge in bird-watching here.

Recommended Hotel: The Inn at the Tides

19. Capitola

Capitola, CA (831) 475-7300 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Capitola is a quaint seaside village where the first beach resort was founded in 1870.

This town is only 45 minutes away from San Jose, so it’s worth your time.

Take a few hours to relax, sunbathe at Capitola City Beach, or go swimming.

This beach is also popular for fun activities like volleyball, birdwatching, and surfing.

For fishing and hiking opportunities, New Brighton State Beach is a nice spot to hang out.

Visit the Capitola Historical Museum for details of the social and cultural history of the Santa Cruz County regions.

Or head to the Armida Winery for a wine tour and tasting.

For a romantic meal, head to the Shadowbrook restaurant, a charming spot in a cozy 1920s log cabin.

20. Jack London State Historic Park

2400 London Ranch Rd Glen Ellen, CA 95442 (707) 938-5216 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Jack London State Historic Park is a protected landmark known as the home of the legendary Jack London, a writer, and adventurer.

This trip will take you a little under 2 hours to make it from San Jose.

Visit the House of Happy Walls Museum to see some of the author’s original books and belongings.

London’s Cottage was built in the 1860s and is a charming visit for a step back in time.

Check out the Beauty Ranch to see scenic views of a vineyard and livestock.

Wolf House Ruins was the original house Jack used to live in, but all that’s left are the masonry and stone walls.

If you’re feeling adventurous, go for a hike on the Sonoma Mountain Trail.

Recommended Hotel: Gaige House

Jenner, CA (707) 865-9757 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Jenner is a small coastal town located between the Russian River and the Pacific Ocean.

This trip will take you 2 hours and 26 minutes from San Jose.

Check out Goat Rock State Beach for unobstructed views of the ocean.

Then head to the River’s End Restaurant for a cozy and delicious meal.

Go wine tasting at the local winery, or have a picnic by the sea.

There’s also a historic park and fort you might be interested in, filled with fascinating stories about the town.

Recommended Hotel: Guerneville Lodge

22. Mission San Juan Bautista

406 2nd St San Juan Bautista, CA 95045 (831) 623-2127 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Mission of the 18th century San Juan Bautista was started in 1797 and was named after Saint John the Baptist to honor him.

This attraction is only 45 minutes away from San Jose, so it wouldn’t hurt to visit for a quick day trip.

You can stroll along the relaxing grounds while taking in the peace.

Head inside the mission to see stunning artwork and architecture from hundreds of years ago.

Take pictures of the statues around the area, or go for a hike on one of the trails nearby.

23. Nicasio

Nicasio, CA Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Nicasio in Marin County was once called Rancho Nicasio.

This was a Spanish land grant from the 1800s that covered the area from San Geronimo to Tomales Bay.

The drive from San Jose will take 1 hour and a half to complete.

Go shopping for gifts and souvenirs in one of the many charming shops downtown.

Or visit an old cathedral or church to see old architecture.

There are also plenty of biking and hiking trails where you can explore.

24. Pinnacles

5000 Highway 146 Paicines, CA 95043 (831) 389-4485 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Pinnacles National Park in California is home to volcanic rock formations that are more than 23 million years old.

This natural beauty is an hour and 23 minutes away from San Jose and is worth the drive.

There are over 26,000 acres of diverse wildlands here, and it is renowned for its beauty and wildflowers.

This dry-looking desert and rocks come to life during springtime with vibrant and colorful flowers.

Go for a hike to explore the spectacular vistas and wildland communities.

Or try climbing some of the unique rock formations here.

Don’t forget to bring plenty of water for this trip to keep you hydrated.

25. Point Reyes National Seashore

1 Bear Valley Visitor Center Access Road Point Reyes Station, CA 94956 (415) 464-5100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Point Reyes National Seashore is a 71,000-acre home to over 1,500 species of plants and animals.

This natural sanctuary is about 1 hour and 49 minutes away from San Jose, but it’s worth it for that peace of mind.

Listen to the thunderous crash of waves against rocky headlands as you walk along the seashore.

Relax on expansive sand beaches, take pictures, and make memories with friends and family.

Explore the open grasslands, forested ridges, and brushy hillsides for an adventure.

And keep your eyes open for over 1,500 species of plants and animals to discover along the way.

This has been home to several cultures over thousands of years and is a sanctuary that offers more than meets the eye.

Day Trip Guide

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

I’m always on the lookout for fun day trips from San Jose that can satisfy my wanderlust.

As a tech geek, one of my favorite destinations is Silicon Valley.

The place oozes innovation.

You can almost feel the creativity in the air, and visiting the tech giants like Google and Apple is priceless.

It’s a massive playground for the intellectually curious, but it’s not all code and gadgets.

There’s an unexpected dash of culture, too, with fascinating museums and delicious international cuisines.

Another destination that I love is Muir Woods.

It’s a national park that preserves some of the oldest and tallest trees in the world.

Imagine breathing in the crisp, eucalyptus-scented air while wandering amidst towering redwoods.

It’s a tranquil escape from the city rush, a total soul-soother.

Now, San Francisco is the quintessential city experience.

From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the quirky charm of Pier 39, it’s a city that never stops surprising.

Where else can you ride a historic cable car, then turn a corner and find a gourmet sourdough bakery?

All three destinations are within an hour or two from San Jose, so they’re perfect for a day trip.

But they’re also very different from each other, so it depends on what you’re looking for.

Do you want to be inspired by innovation, reconnect with nature, or experience diversity?

Where will your adventure begin?

How I Picked The Destinations

Choosing the perfect day trip destination from San Jose was a challenging task, but I’ve got you covered.

As a resident of California, I know the state like the back of my hand.

I’ve experienced these gems firsthand, combining my personal explorations with extensive research and conversations with locals.

I handpicked these destinations because they offer something unique and unforgettable.

Our Rating Method

I rate these destinations based on the following criteria.

Family friendliness: This criterion assesses the family-friendly appeal of every destination. Does it offer attractions suited for the whole family? Does it have facilities and services that entertain and engage all age groups? I use these questions to evaluate family friendliness.
Safety: I use this to evaluate safety and security. Does the area have a low crime rate? Is public transportation secure? Are local authorities reliable and helpful? I ask myself these questions when evaluating safety.
Affordability: This is used to assess affordability. Will visitors get a lot of bang for their buck? Is it cheaper compared to the other options? I consider these factors when rating affordability. I consider these factors when rating affordability.
Accessibility: This criterion evaluates the accessibility of every location. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? How walkable is the area? How far is it from the base? These are the questions I ask when myself assessing accessibility.
Fun factor: I use this to evaluate how enjoyable the day trip is for visitors. Will it create positive and memorable experiences? Does it offer attractions that promise fun experiences for the whole family? Are there theme parks, beaches, and hiking trails? I use these questions to evaluate this criterion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where to visit close to san jose.

There are many attractions and destinations close to San Jose. Some of the best places to visit close to San Jose include Silicon Valley, Santa Cruz, Alameda, Napa, Muir Woods, and San Francisco.

How Many Days Should You Spend In San Jose?

The number of days you should spend in San Jose depends on your interests and preferences, but a general recommendation is 2 to 3 days. This will give you enough time to explore the city’s main attractions, such as the Winchester Mystery House, the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, Tech Interactive, and the San Jose Museum of Art. You can also enjoy some of the city’s cultural and culinary offerings, such as the San Pedro Square Market, the Japantown, and the Santana Row.

How Do You Spend A Day In San Jose, California?

There are many ways to spend a day in San Jose, California. Here is one possible itinerary: start your day with breakfast at one of the cafes or bakeries in downtown San Jose, visit the Winchester Mystery House and head to the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum. Then, have lunch at the San Pedro Square Market and check out the San Jose Museum of Art. Enjoy dinner at Santana Row, and end your day with a show at one of the theaters or venues in San Jose.

Is San Jose Worth Visiting In California?

San Jose is worth visiting in California for many reasons. It is the largest city in Northern California and the heart of Silicon Valley, making it a hub for innovation, culture, and diversity. Moreover, it is near many other destinations, ideal for day trips or weekend getaways.

Conclusion

Silicon Valley takes the cake for the best day trips from San Jose.

I’ve danced my way through the tech wonderland and the lush redwoods of Muir Woods and breathed in the intoxicating vibes of San Francisco.

But Silicon Valley is like your favorite pair of stilettos; it elevates everything.

The innovation is electrifying, the energy is palpable, and it’s a paradise for curious souls.

While Muir Woods wraps you in nature’s embrace and San Francisco tickles your cultural tastebuds, Silicon Valley is the powerhouse that makes your heart sing.

Let’s not forget the educational treasures and the tasty food that are the cherries on top.

So, for an unforgettable, inspiring experience, Silicon Valley is the crown jewel.

And who doesn’t love a little sparkle?

25 Best Day Trips From San Jose — Places Nearby!

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On Earth Day, Biden Spotlights Climate Investments to Contrast With Republicans

President Biden announced $7 billion more for solar power projects and pointed to a new a climate work force as he tries to galvanize young voters.

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President Biden, wearing a blue suit jacket and and a shirt without a tie, stands at a lectern amid tall trees.

By Zolan Kanno-Youngs and Brad Plumer

Zolan Kanno-Youngs reported from Triangle, Va., and Brad Plumer from Washington.

President Biden announced $7 billion in grants for solar power projects on Monday and tried to draw a contrast with Republicans who want to roll back his policies on climate change.

In remarks at Prince William Forest in Virginia, Mr. Biden said the money from his signature climate and energy law, the Inflation Reduction Act, would help provide solar power for hundreds of thousands of homes in disadvantaged communities.

“Despite the overwhelming devastation in red and blue states, there’s still those who deny climate is in crisis,” Mr. Biden said at the start of a week in which his top officials will fan out across the country to promote his environmental policy. “Our MAGA Republican friends don’t seem to think it’s a crisis.”

He also said the American Climate Corps, a new work force for people hoping to combat climate change, would create thousands of jobs for the next generation.

Mr. Biden’s Earth Day event comes as he tries to energize younger voters, many of whom are disillusioned with the 2024 candidates and infuriated over the administration’s handling of Israel’s war in Gaza.

On Monday, Mr. Biden tried to strike a middle ground when speaking about the turmoil on college campuses . Asked whether he condemned “the antisemitic protesters,” Mr. Biden said, “I condemn the antisemitic protests.” He added: “I also condemn those who don’t understand what’s going on with the Palestinians.”

Mr. Biden leads his Republican opponent, former President Donald J. Trump, among young voters, and many approve of his record on the environment when contrasted with Mr. Trump’s. Mr. Biden’s lead, however, is smaller than it was at this point during the 2020 election cycle, according to a Harvard Youth Poll released last week.

Another poll, from October , found that just 31 percent of voters younger than 30 were “satisfied” with Mr. Biden’s record on climate change.

Danielle Deiseroth, the executive director of Data for Progress, a left-leaning research firm, said Mr. Biden could use his efforts to combat climate change to bolster support among young voters.

“The bigger fear is not necessarily young voters turning out en masse for Trump. It’s them staying home,” Ms. Deiseroth said. “That’s where the climate stuff does come into play, to sort of energize and also to scare young people to coming out to vote.”

Mr. Biden has faced a messaging problem when it comes to the Inflation Reduction Act, his most consequential climate policy to date. The legislation contained hundreds of billions of dollars in tax credits to help companies switch to low-carbon electricity sources like wind, solar and nuclear power. It also included billions in incentives for people to buy electric vehicles and electric heat pumps for their homes.

The law, signed in 2022, is already having ripple effects: Across the country, businesses have announced plans for more than 150 factories that would build electric vehicles, batteries, solar panels and wind turbines. Sales of electric cars and installations of large-scale solar power plants both hit record highs last year.

Yet polls suggest that few Americans seem to know about the law.

One potential problem is that many of the climate law’s outcomes are not yet fully visible. While companies have announced more than $100 billion in new manufacturing investments in states like Arizona, Georgia and Michigan, many of those factories are not yet up and running.

Some environmentalists have sought to publicize the law’s effects. Climate Power, a liberal advocacy group, plans to spend $80 million on election-year advertising to contrast Mr. Biden’s legislative accomplishments with the actions of Mr. Trump, who has mocked climate science and has vowed to roll back programs to promote clean energy.

Other climate activists have sharply criticized Mr. Biden for not doing enough to curtail fossil fuel drilling in the United States. U.S. oil and gas production soared to record highs last year. Many activists have focused anger on Mr. Biden’s approval of Willow , an $8 billion oil drilling project on pristine federal land in Alaska, and on federal approval of a natural gas pipeline from West Virginia to Virginia that has been opposed by environmentalists.

“President Biden has taken historic action on climate change and done more than any president in history to combat the climate crisis, but that bar is unfortunately quite low,” said Stevie O’Hanlon, the communications director for the Sunrise Movement, a group of young climate activists. “If Joe Biden wants to be seen as a climate president by young voters, he needs to decisively take action to end the fossil fuel era.”

In recent months, Mr. Biden has taken a series of steps to try to slow down domestic fossil fuel production. In January, the administration said it would pause the approval of new terminals that export liquefied natural gas in order to study the issue further. This month, the Interior Department said it would ban oil drilling across nearly 13 million acres in Alaska’s North Slope.

Lisa Friedman contributed reporting.

Zolan Kanno-Youngs is a White House correspondent, covering President Biden and his administration. More about Zolan Kanno-Youngs

Brad Plumer is a Times reporter who covers technology and policy efforts to address global warming. More about Brad Plumer

Our Coverage of the 2024 Election

Presidential Race

Donald Trump has put forth a law-and-order candidacy while also criticizing the legal system when it comes to himself and making exceptions for his supporters. Here’s a look at his complicated relationship with law enforcement.

Kamala Harris, campaigning in Wisconsin, took sharp swipes at Trump for his actions on abortion , a hot topic across the country . But she stayed silent on the war in Gaza, another issue erupting elsewhere among the critical bloc of young voters she has been courting.

President Biden announced $7 billion in grants for solar power projects and tried to draw a contrast with Republicans who want to roll back his policies on climate change.

Other Key Races

David McCormick, the G.O.P. senate candidate, has often spoken about his modest upbringing on a farm in Pennsylvania . A close look at his past tells a different story.

Summer Lee’s race in Pennsylvania once seemed primed to become a major test of Democratic attitudes about the Middle East . But in much of the district, an expected ideological battle has not arrived.

A high-energy crowd rallied in Pittsburgh to support Representative Summer Lee, a left-leaning congresswoman whose primary is a high-profile test of whether she can stave off a challenge aimed in part at her stance over the war in Gaza.

After Hamas’s Oct. 7 attack on Israel, pro-Israel political groups put the Democratic Party’s most outspoken critics on notice. The groups have raised millions to challenge candidates they see as not sufficiently pro-Israel, but have spent little as public opinion shifts.

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26 Best Travel Affiliate Programs for 2024 (Based on Data)

How we compiled this list of programs

Travel Affiliate Programs

Booking.com

GetYourGuide

RentalCars.com

Discover Cars

HostelWorld

Interrail Pass / Eurail Pass

TripAdvisor

G Adventures

Intrepid Travel

Priority Pass

World Nomads

Wise (formerly Transferwise)

Ferryhopper

Maximize your affiliate revenue with content insights for publishers

Find Keyword Ideas in Seconds

14 Best Travel Affiliate Programs

How Backlinko Can Help You

Top Travel Affiliate Programs

1. Expedia Group

2. Booking.com

3. Tripadvisor

5. G Adventures

7. GetYourGuide

8. Discover Cars

10. Hostelworld

11. Skyscanner

12. Travelpayouts

14. World Nomads

Becoming a Travel Affiliate

Building Your Site/Audience

Promoting Travel Offers

Maximizing Earnings

How To Choose The Right Travel Affiliate Program

18 Best Travel Affiliate Programs in 2024 (Top Offers)

Travel Affiliate Programs

2 Booking.com

4 Tripadvisor

5 Hotels.com

6 G Adventures

7 Travelpayouts

10 World Nomads

11 GetYourGuide

13 Take Walks

14 InsureMyTrip

15 TrustedHousesitters

16 Hostelworld

17 SafetyWing

18 Amazon Associates

✈️ Conclusion

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Tripadvisor Affiliate Program

What is the Tripadvisor Affiliate Program?

Publisher # 1

Publisher # 2

My Bookings

11 Best Travel Affiliate Programs for 2024

What is a Travel Affiliate Program?

Top 10 Affiliate Programs for Travel Bloggers

1. Tripshepherd Affiliate Program

2. Tiqets.com Affiliate Program

3. TripAdvisor Affiliate Program

4. Expedia Affiliate Program

5. Booking.com Affiliate Program

6. Amazon Associates

7. Skyscanner Affiliate Program

8. Viator Affiliate Program

9. Hotels.com Affiliate Program

10. Agoda Affiliate Program

11. World Nomads Affiliate Program

Conclusion:

Book your Tour

Get in Touch

29 Best Travel Affiliate Programs in 2024

Best Travel Affiliate Programs

Booking.com

Best Western

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