the t trip planner

You'll never travel without our trip planner again

Travel planning at its best. build, organize, and map your custom itineraries in a free travel app designed for vacations & road trips, powered by our trip planner ai.

Your itinerary and your map in one view

No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Features to replace all your other tools

Add places from guides with 1 click, collaborate with friends in real time, import flight and hotel reservations, expense tracking and splitting, checklists for anything, get personalized suggestions, plan like a pro.

Unlock premium features like offline access, unlimited attachments, flight deals, export to Google maps, and much more

Offline access

Unlimited attachments, optimize your route.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

Discover your next favorite destination

Have tips of your own? Write a guide to share with other travelers like you!

Ready to plan your trip in half the time?

For every kind of trip and every destination, the best road trip planner, the best vacation planner, the best group itinerary planner.

One-Day Itinerary

Day Trips From Boston

Sam Adams Brewery Tours

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Skiing Near Boston

Beaches Near Boston

Hikes Near Boston

Boston Public Garden

Museums in Boston

Fenway Park Guide

Shopping in Boston

The Best Time to Visit Boston

Weather & Climate

Neighborhoods to Know

Driving in Boston

Public Transportation in Boston

Getting Around Boston: MBTA "T" Subway System

Navigating the MBTA "T" Subway System and More

Elijah-Lovkoff/Getty Images

One of the most daunting parts of visiting Boston for the first time is figuring out how to navigate the city’s public transportation: the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority’s (MBTA) subway and bus system, commonly known as the “T.” However, once you get a lay of the land and try it out a few times, you’ll likely find that it’s an easier — and more affordable — way to get around. Parking can be hard to come by, so you’ll be happy not having a car if you plan on staying in the city.

How to Ride Boston’s T (Subway and Busses)

The T is the United States’ oldest subway system, which started running back in 1897. It’s not particularly nice, but it will conveniently get you from one point to another within the city so you can see even more than you could by foot (though Boston is a walkable city). It also comes in handy during winter months when walking isn’t enjoyable.

• Fares : A single ride CharlieTicket for the bus is $2 and the subway is $2.75. However, you’ll save on each ride if you load money onto a CharlieCard (for example, save 50 cents per ride on the train). Do some research and determine if it make sense to purchase a 7-day unlimited pass, which you can use on both the trains and busses. There are also monthly passes available if you’re in town for an extended stay. Children under 11 who are with an adult ride for free, along with military personnel, police officers, firefighters and government officials. Reduced fares are available to students and seniors.
• Types of Passes: There are two types of passes and the best option for you depends on how often you’ll be riding the T, along with the modes of public transportation you want to take. First is the CharlieCard, which is ideal for those that plan on taking the bus and/or train frequently and will give you discounted one-way fares. Oftentimes a CharlieTicket is best for visitors, as they can be bought at any train station and loaded with cash or passes as you need them. While you won’t get discounts this way, they’re also valid on the Commuter Rail and Ferry and will allow you to ensure you aren’t spending more than you need on public transportation.
• Hours of Operation: Hours will vary depending on the line and station you plan on traveling on, but for the most part, you’ll find that the T runs from 5 a.m. to somewhere between midnight and 1 a.m. Don’t wait until it’s getting close to 1 a.m. to head to the train or bus though — that’s recipe for missing the last one from your station. Boston bars typically stay open until 2 a.m., so if you plan on staying out until they close, you’ll need to take an Uber, Lyft or taxi home.
• Subway Lines: The T consists of five separate lines, each of which connects at several locations within the city. The Green Line began as America’s first underground subway system in 1897. Today, the line consists of four separate branches (be sure to get on the right one). The other lines are the Red Line, Blue Line, Orange Line and Silver Line. The main stations that you can connect from one line to another are North and South Stations, as well as stops like Park Street and Downtown Crossing.

Map out your travels using the MBTA trip planner website , which will help you determine the best options for trip, as well as real-time departure and arrival information.

Where and How to Buy Passes for the Boston MBTA Trains & Busses

There are lots of ways to pay for your MBTA train and bus passes, most of which can be purchased online or at MBTA train stations throughout the city. These are the places you can purchase them, including which options accept cash:

• Fare vending machines: Fare vending machines can be found at all subway stations, as well as at the Lynn and Worcester/Union Commuter Rail stations. Here you can buy or renew CharlieTickets and CharlieCards, including 1-day, 7-day, cash value and monthly passes. These machines accept cash and major credit and debit cards, though keep in mind that some will be marked as not accepting cash.
• Retail sales locations: There are select stores in the Boston area and even Providence, RI where you can purchase a CharlieCard and add cash value or a pass to it or add to an existing CharlieCard or CharlieTicket if you already have one. Plan ahead and find a retail store closest to you . These locations accept cash or credit/debit cards.
• Online: If you already have a CharlieCard or order one ahead of your Boston trip, you can register for a MyCharlie account and easily add cash value or passes online. This can also come in handy because it protects you if you happen to lose your card somewhere along the way. Sign up for MyCharlie here — or you can load money onto an existing card here without logging in .
• At street-level stops along the Green Line or Mattapan Trolley: If you’re riding either of these lines, you can add up to $20 cash value on your CharlieCard or CharlieTicket right onboard at these street-level trolley stops. Note that this option does not apply to 1-day, 7-day or monthly passes. To pay at a street-level stop, you’ll need to use cash or coins.

Other Transit Options

• Airport Transit : There are two free MBTA options to get from Logan Airport to Boston. First, take the MBTA Silver Line SL1 Bus, which will go to South Station, which connects to the Red Line, Commuter Rail and several busses. Or you can opt for the Blue Line via a free Massport shuttle bus, which will take you right from the airport terminal to Airport Station on the Blue Line. Alternatively, there is a scenic water taxi that will take you to various destinations along the waterfront, but it’s not the easiest option if you’re traveling with luggage.
• Ferries : The MBTA has two ferry lines that travel to Boston, including the Charlestown Ferry and the Hingham/Hull Ferry, both of which are popular among commuters who live in these areas. Both go to Boston’s Long Wharf, which is easily accessible to many of the city’s hotels and attractions. If you’re looking to visit Boston area beaches, you may want to use the Hingham/Hull Ferry to get to South Shore towns.
• Commuter Rails to Nearby Suburbs: If you’re not renting a car, the Commuter Rails are a great way to get to Boston area suburbs. There are several lines to choose from that will take you in any direction. Rates will depend on where you are traveling to, as they are priced by zone.
• Ubers, Lyfts and Taxis: It should come as no surprise that there is an abundance of Ubers, Lyfts and taxis in the city of Boston. Ride-sharing services are oftentimes more affordable than taxis, though some prefer the convenience of picking up a taxi at a designated taxi stand.
• Bike Sharing: An increasingly popular way to get around Boston is through the city’s Blue Bikes bike share program . There are over 1,800 bikes at 200 stations throughout the city and it’s easy to use – simply become a member online, buy a pass from the app or a kiosk and pick up a bike in a location that’s convenient to you. When you’re done, find a drop-off location, check it in and you’re good to go.
• Car rentals: Car rentals are certainly available in Boston, especially by Logan Airport , but think about if you’ll truly need one before you book. Most Boston neighborhoods lack ample parking, especially without a resident sticker, so you may end up paying a good amount of money to park it. There are plenty of other ways to get around the city without a car. If you plan on spending a decent amount of time outside the city, then a car rental may be necessary. But you could also explore services like ZipCar to use one for a day, for example, which may offer cost savings.

Tips for Getting Around Boston

• Winter weather causes delays. Bad weather — especially snow — typically impacts public transportation, so plan for delays and resulting crowds. Unfortunately, this is due to the MBTA’s old infrastructure in many cases.
• Apps will help predict timing, especially for busses. The MBTA has gotten much better about providing riders with real-time updates on wait times for the trains, but apps can also be helpful. There is an MBTA-endorsed Transit App , as well as others that riders find helpful like the MBTA Bus app.
• Hours of operation end between midnight and 1 a.m. Don’t wait until 1 a.m. to catch the last train or bus — you’ll likely miss it.
• Taking the T can help avoid traffic. With the exception of the Green Line, which is above-ground for much of its path, the T is underground, helping you avoid traffic during peak hours.
• Avoid renting a car unless you plan to leave the city.  You'll find it's both easier and more affordable, as public city parking can be hard to come by and expensive.
• Plan ahead to determine if your best bet is public transportation, walking or Uber/taxi. Google Maps comes in handy here, as you can play out your options to determine which will be faster. It really depends on where you are going and what day of the week or time you’re traveling.
• Think through the best MBTA pass to ensure you get the best cost savings. As mentioned earlier, this depends on how often you’ll be using public transportation, as well as what you plan to see while you’re in town and the number of days you’re visiting for.
• Compared to other major cities, the T is affordable. Keep that in mind if you’re used to NYC fares, for example. Again, do the math before deciding how to get around the city.
• Pay attention to inbound vs. outbound when taking the T. It’s easy to get caught riding in the wrong direction if you don’t look at the map and enter the station on the correct side.

Getting Around Salt Lake City: Guide to Public Transportation

Getting Around Paris: Guide to Public Transportation

Getting Around Pittsburgh: Guide to Public Transportation

Getting Around New Orleans: Guide to Public Transportation

Your Trip to Boston: The Complete Guide

Getting Around Seattle: Guide to Public Transportation

The 13 Best Day Trips from Boston

Park on the Mass Pike and Take the T Into Boston

Getting Around Madrid: Guide to Public Transportation

Getting Around Los Angeles: Guide to Public Transportation

Getting Around Beijing: Guide to Public Transportation

TD Garden: Travel Guide for a Celtics Game in Boston

How to Visit Los Angeles Without a Car

Getting Around Rio de Janeiro: Guide to Public Transportation

Getting Around Denver: Guide to Public Transportation

Getting Around Philadelphia: Guide to Public Transportation

Public Transportation and Metro Rail Information

Boston MBTA Subway: The-T

The Boston Metro, also known as the “T” or simply The Subway, came into operation in 1897, making it the first subway system in the United States. Comprising four lines—orange, blue, red, and green—it usually begins operations between 5:00 and 5:30 AM. The basic fare, or CharlieTicket, costs $2.75. Subscription options are available for students and seniors, and children under 11 ride for free. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) oversees the Boston subway. Interestingly, passengers are allowed to put their feet up on the seats when the train isn’t crowded. Violations of subway rules can lead to a lifetime ban.

Often referred to as ‘The T’, this transit system accommodates approximately 1,100,000 passengers per day . Fare payment methods include traditional gates and a modern smartcard system. Please note that ‘The T’ does not operate on a 24-hour schedule . Nevertheless, comfort is guaranteed with available air conditioning . However, passengers cannot walk between platforms . The train system is not driverless and the platforms do not have screen doors .

The transit system is managed by the MBTA and the standard fare is $1,100,000 . For more information, visit the Boston Metro Official Website or you can reach them via phone at +1 617 222 3200 .

The Subway in the United States: Boston’s System

As one of the oldest cities in the U.S., Boston is home to a metropolitan area with approximately 4.5 million residents, making it one of the most populated urban areas in the country.

Situated in Massachusetts, Boston is regarded as the financial, economic, and cultural hub of the New England region in the northeastern U.S. The city has an extensive public transportation network designed to cater to the daily travel needs of millions of commuters. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) manages this transit system.

Locals often refer to this system as the “T” due to its distinctive logo, which is easily recognizable by visitors. The MBTA operates various modes of transportation, including buses, light rail trains, and the subway system.

The Boston subway holds the distinction of being the first underground system in the United States. It was inaugurated three years before the globally recognized New York subway and 34 years after London’s system. Opening its doors in 1897, it has been designated a national historical monument.

The necessity for an underground transit system arose due to the city’s overcrowded trolley services, which were insufficient to accommodate the growing population. Since 1900, the subway has undergone significant expansion. The MBTA constructed additional subway tunnels and extended the lines throughout the city center, thereby connecting local communities via expanded subway, railway, and bus routes. Presently, there are plans underway to modernize the system.

Lines and Stations

The Boston subway system is made up of four lines, which are identified by the colors orange, blue, red, and green.

Launched in 1897, the Green Line was the first of its kind in the United States. It replaced the old tram that had long circulated throughout the center of Boston, and is now composed of a fleet of surface trains. With its 66 stations, a 37-km route, and a daily ridership of 230,000 users, it is the largest line in the “T” system. The Green Line connects the east with the center of the city, serving various neighborhoods including Brighton, Newton, Mission Hill, and Jamaica Plain.

Orange Line

Introduced in 1901, the Orange Line boasts 19 stations that extend from Jamaica Plain to Forest Hills, covering a distance of 18km. It serves more than 200,000 passengers daily and connects the north with the southeast part of the city, passing through the center. All Orange Line stations are equipped with high-level platforms for accessibility, with elevators available for those with mobility issues.

The Blue Line, operational since 1904, features 12 stations along a 9.7km route, with two additional stations currently under construction. It connects the neighborhood of East Boston with the city center and serves about 67,000 users daily. Notably, this line provides a connection to Logan International Airport via the Wonderland station, with a shuttle bus service to the airport terminal.

The Red Line, inaugurated in 1912, links the north of Boston with the southern zone. As the most extensive line of the system, it features 29 stations dispersed along a 34km route. The line serves the neighborhood of North Cambridge in the north of the city at the Alewife stop, and splits at the JFK/UMass station, with some trains heading towards Braintree and others towards the neighborhood of Dorchester.

Operating Hours

Each subway line has its own distinct operating schedule, but most start service between 5:00am and 5:30am from Monday to Saturday. On Sundays, services typically start after 6:00am.

Red Line Hours

On the Red Line, the first train departs from Alewife station, located in the northeastern part of the city in the town of Cambridge, at 5:24am, heading towards the neighborhood of Braintree. From the same station, but heading towards the Ashmont terminal in the historic neighborhood of Dorchester, the first train departs at 5:16am. These schedules apply from Monday to Saturday. On Sundays, all trains on the Red Line start operations at 6:00am.

Blue Line Hours

The first train on the Blue Line departs from the Wonderland station in the town of Revere at 5:13am, heading towards the Bowdoin station in downtown Boston. In the reverse direction, the first train leaves at 5:29am, with these schedules applying from Monday to Saturday. On Sundays, the departure time for the Wonderland-Bowdoin route is at 5:58am and the Bowdoin-Wonderland route starts at 6:21am.

Orange Line Hours

On the Orange Line, the first train departs from Oak Grove station in Malden at 5:16am, heading towards the Forest Hills station in Jamaica Plain. The same schedule applies in the reverse direction from Monday to Saturday. On Sundays, the first train departs at 6:00am in both directions.

Green Line Hours

The Green Line has various operating times. The first train for the “B” route, going from the Boston College station in Brighton to the Park Street station downtown, leaves at 5:01am. The last trains on this route depart at 12:10am and 12:45am respectively.

The “C” route, going from the Cleveland Circle station in Brighton to the North Station stop downtown, starts service at 5:01am and ends at 12:10am.

The “D” route, departing from Riverside station in Newton towards the Government Center terminal downtown, begins at 4:56am and ends at 12:05am.

The “E” route of the Green Line, departing from Heath Street station, located between the towns of Jamaica Plain and Mission Hill, towards Lechmere station in East Cambridge, starts at 5:38am and ends at 12:47am.

MBTA Subway Rates

The Boston subway system offers different payment options that adapt to the needs of consumers. The basic pass, that consists of a ticket paid in cash, costs $2.75, and it’s known as CharlieTicket. Additionally, the MBTA provides their customers with a card known as the CharlieCard, which makes the trip cost $2.25. With this card one can also gain access to LinkPass plans, that are detailed below:

• Day LinkPass : It provides 24 hours of unlimited subway trips and unlimited use of local buses that are administered by the MBTA. It’s prized at $12. This is recommended for people that need to use public transportation, going from buses to trains, throughout an entire day.
• Week LinkPass : Like the previous one, it offers passengers unlimited trips in local trains and buses under MBTA administration, with a duration of 7 whole days from the moment of the first trip. It’s prized at $21.25. It’s especially convenient for tourists, whose stay will be between 7 and 15 days.
• Monthly LinkPass : For $84.50 monthly, the passenger will be able to enjoy 30 days of unlimited trips using the subway and bus lines administrated by MBTA. This is ideal for those that will be spending a long period of time in the city and will constantly need to use the public transportation system.
• Additional to the previous plans, the MBTA offers special prices for students and senior citizens. In the case of students, a Student CharlieCard is required. It’s a card dedicated to students from Elementary through High School age, that makes the trip cost $1.10. It’s valid for 30 days and is prized at $30. Senior citizens older than 65 years old can count on the same benefit, with a rate of $1.10 a trip and $30 for the monthly plan; the same prices apply to people with special needs. Children younger than 11 years travel totally free.

MBTA Subway regulations

Proper use of installations.

• 1) While the Boston subway system doesn’t prohibit eating in the railway carriages, you can be admonished if your food gives out strong odors that present an annoyance to the other passengers.
• 2) Having conversations that are so loud that it disturbs the other passengers’ travels, can lead to being sanctioned by the system authorities.
• 3) Listening to loud music is not permitted in trains and stations of the subway.
• 4) If the wagon is empty, it is allowed to one’s feet up on the seats; however, during peak hours you may not improperly use the seats, as it may disturb other passengers and cause you to be sanctioned.
• 5) With the means of making the boarding onto the train go smoothly and quickly, it is recommended for passengers boarding to let the passengers departing the train walk out first before they board.

Bicycle Transport

• 1) Carry your bike to one side of your body, abstaining from using it in the system’s installations.
• 2) It is allowed to transport two bicycles per wagon. The owner of the bike would need to make sure that he’s not blocking the transit of other passengers in the hall and doors of the train.
• 3) If the train is too full, you would need to wait for another that has more space so that you may take your bike in with you.
• 4) In case of special events, the transport of bicycles in the trains can be prohibited. It is recommended to be alert to any unusual activity, from the city or organized by the MBTA.
• 5) Senior citizens and people with special needs have preference over bikes to use the trains.
• 6) In the case that a person of special needs requires a bike to improve their situation in the train, he would be allowed to have it with him in the installations at all times.
• 7) Cyclists that are younger than 16 years old, should be accompanied by a legal representative, in the subway’s installations.

Transport of Pets

• 1) During hours of low influx of people, you will be able to travel with your pet without any inconvenience. During peak hours, the boarding of animals could be restricted.
• 2) Dogs must be on a leash and be wearing a muzzle and may not occupy seats in the carriage. Also, they should not disturb the peace of other passengers.
• 3) During peak hours, smaller animals should be transported in appropriate cages, in the means of not disturbing other passengers.
• 4) The owner will be held accountable for all the damages that a pet may cause inside the installations of the subway, and will also have to pay a ticket for the damages.

The Boston subway has its own security force called the MBTA Transit Police Department. They’re in charge of assisting in keeping passengers safe and helping them with their complaints. They have the right to carry out investigations, as well as arrests in the case of illicit acts inside the transportation system. They have a team that is specialized in sexual harassment cases in the trains, either physical or verbal, which they pay a of attention to. Their service is highly qualified when it comes to taking care of any incident that may put at risk the passenger’s integrity.

Airport connection

You may travel to Logan International Airport in a simple and convenient way, using the blue line of the subway. You must take a train in direction to Airport station, where when leaving the terminal, you will have buses available that are identified with the name of the company known as Massport, that oversee the airport’s logistics. The trip takes between 10 to 15 minutes, and is completely free.

In the opposite case, if you travel from the airport to the center of the city by subway, you will have to take one of these bus lines: no. 22, 33 or 55 in direction to the Blue line of the subway system. All vehicles are identified with the name of the company called Massport, located to the south of the air terminal, right outside the entrance.

It also should be mentioned that in the airport you will have available the Silver line that does not have to do with the subway, but is a fast way of connecting to the city. It’s a system of articulated buses, that circulate through fast transit channels in the city, and that make connections with the Red, Blue and Green lines of the Boston subway. If you board this system in the air terminal, the trip will be free. In the opposite case, if using this line to get to the airport, you will be charged $2.00 per trip.

Future Expansions

There are plans to extend the Blue Line to the Lynn neighborhood, north of the city, and to establish a southern connection with the Red Line on its western section. Additionally, plans are in place to expand the Green Line northward to the neighborhoods of Somerville and Medford, moving the Lechmere station, and connecting the routes between these areas. This last project is estimated to cost three billion dollars and is set to be completed by the end of 2021.

In addition to the expansions of the Blue and Green Lines, there are proposals to create an urban ring in the city center. This would connect bus routes, subway stations, and railway terminals, facilitating quick transfers between systems.

Places of Interest

The first place you must visit in Boston is the Waterfront , located just outside the Aquarium station on the Blue Line. This dock offers stunning views of the city’s harbor, city center, and skyscrapers. It’s a fantastic spot to spend an afternoon appreciating the architecture of Boston.

Just a short walk from the Waterfront, at the same Aquarium station, is the New England Aquarium . This facility boasts exhibits featuring thousands of marine species, divided into sections like Sharks and Rays, Turtles Uncovered, and Penguin Power. It’s a must-visit for both locals and tourists due to its diverse range of specimens and interactive activities allowing visitors to engage with certain species under supervision.

Another must-see destination is the Museum of Fine Arts , accessible via the Green Line. As the second-largest art exhibition in the United States, only surpassed by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, it is one of the most significant museums in the country. Established in 1876, it displays collections of Egyptian antiquities, French Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, Chinese calligraphy and paintings, Japanese art, and a section dedicated to Austria’s Rothschild family. Additionally, it houses a library with more than 320,000 books.

Boston Subway Map

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• The 17 Best Trip Planning Websites for Travelers

L ooking for the best trip planning websites for your next vacation? Or, on the hunt for the best websites for flight deals, hotel deals, or ways to travel smarter? I’ve got you covered. Here are the top travel planning websites that I repeatedly use for every trip.

Pin Me for Later!

I am so excited to share the best of the best trip planning websites with you!

Every single site listed below are ones that I have used personally and have had continuous positive experiences with.

From the best travel planning websites for hotels, hostels, rental cars, security, and more. Be sure to bookmark this page on your web browser so you can use it each time you plan a trip.

I love helping my community plan amazing trips. When booking these services, consider booking them through the links below. Without any extra cost to you, you will be supporting This Rare Earth .

Thank you so much!

Get the best hotel prices here!

Find a hostel bed here!

Book your favorite tours and activities here!

Get the best rental car prices here!

Keep your personal data secure here!

Get a quote for travel insurance here!

Shop my top Travel Essentials here!

The Best Trip Planning Websites for Accommodations

Booking.com.

I find all of my best hotel deals on this site ! Seriously – it is the one I use the absolute most, probably around 90% of the time.

Why? Because a) they are very competitively priced . And b) you can download the app and have all of our bookings on your phone, no matter where you are in the world. Easy.

Booking also covers all levels of accommodations, meaning you can find everything from budget rooms to luxury hotels. And, you’ll even see some rental homes and hostels on there, too.

The website has a “Genius Loyalty Program” that comes with rewards for using their platform. You can get a 10% discount just for signing up ! Then, the number of stays you book determines your level and rewards.

Currently, once you book five stays within two years, you have lifetime Genius Benefits of up to a 15% discount at select hotels, free breakfasts and room upgrades. I have personally gotten all of these upgrades at one point or another, so I can confirm that they are real.

Hostelworld.com

Traveling on a budget? Or, just prefer to make friends on the go? Then you should head to the best hostel booking website in the biz.

Hostelworld has an extensive network of listings across seemingly endless countries. Read through extensive reviews so you don’t have any unwanted surprises. Easily see if you can book dorm rooms, private rooms, female-only rooms, and more.

Trivago.com

I have to be honest with you – I almost never use AirBnb nowadays. In the USA, or at least on the west coast, AirBnb prices have been absolutely insane for years now. They are almost never cheaper then hotels and the fees have gotten out of hand.

Enter, Trivago.

Trivago is a site helps travelers compare prices for not only hotels but also alternative accommodations – like vacation rentals and unique homes – in 190 countries .

Filter your search results by price, distance from parks, attractions, or beaches.

If you have also been feeling disappointed by AirBnb lately, give Trivago a try.

The Best Trip Planning Websites for Rental Cars

I use each of the following sites to find the best rental car prices for any trip. I will order them from my most used site to my second most used site.

RentalCars.com

Looking to rent a car for less? RentalCars.com consistently offers me one of the lowest car rental prices in the biz. I compare prices for almost every trip I take, and more often than not, they beat everyone else.

On their site, you can specify the type of car you want and filter them by feature. For example, do you need 4WD? Or a tiny compact car?

Whatever it is you need, you will find it here .

DiscoverCars.com

Newer on the scene, I am a recent user of DiscoverCars. They also offer competitively priced vehicles and every once in a while will beat out the site above.

My advice? Compare both sites’ rates and then book the best one!

The Best Trip Planning Websites for Tours and Activities

I highly recommend two tour booking platforms. They each are more and less strong in different countries. So, I use them both equally, though the one I choose depends on my destination.

GetYourGuide

Get Your Guide is a top trip planning website for booking tours and activities . It is a great place to search what excursions and tours are available in any given destination before arriving.

Get Your Guide has extensive offerings across the globe and they keep adding more. And, you can even purchase gift certificates for friends, too.

Viator is my other favorite tour booking platform . Again, neither is better or worse in general, but they both have strengths and weaknesses in different countries.

Viator is easy to navigate and has loads of reviews. I’ve used them all over the globe, from Moorea to Tbilisi and more.

The Best Trip Planning Websites for Security

I’ve been using ExpressVPN for several years now, and I have no plans to discontinue anytime soon.

VPNs are “virtual private networks.” If you have never used a VPN, consider it to be a “shield” in several ways.

VPNs protect you from being spied on, which helps keep your bank account info and passwords safe. They make it much tougher for unwanted intruders to be able to hack into your network and steal your date. They also protect you from censorship in other countries.

For example, let’s say you want to watch Netflix on a trip to the Middle East. But, the country you are visiting does not allow hold any Netflix rights, or, they don’t hold the same ones you have at home.

Turning on your VPN makes it look like you are in any country that you choose – from the USA to Canada to Brazil to Spain – so that you can access the shows from your home region, even though you are not there.

Bonus, if you run into any issues or technical snags, you can easily reach a representative via chat or phone to find a solution. They are so helpful.

FYI, ExpressVPN works on both your computer and phone! For both internet security and entertainment while traveling, I can’t recommend ExressVPN enough. Love them!

The Best Websites for Travel Insurance

World nomads.

While I don’t necessarily book travel insurance for every trip I take, it is wise to book it for the following:

• trips that involve high risk activities, like bungee jumping, paragliding, and cliff-jumping.
• for trips including trekking and hiking.
• if you are accident prone or headed to a destination with lackluster medical options.
• offering flight cancellation coverage or lost luggage protection.

World Nomads representatives are willing to answer questions about your coverage and – while I have thankfully never needed to file a claim personally – I have heard nothing but good reviews from friends who did.

World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world. Get a quote today!

The Best Trip Planning Websites for Safety

Travel.state.gov.

I almost always research my destinations on the United States State Department website before traveling.

Here, you can look for any recent security issues within any given destination as well as any safety alerts issued by the US government. You can even look at a visual map that is color-coded to depict levels of safety around the globe.

And, if you are worried about unrest in an area you plan to travel to, consider enrolling in the STEP program to receive specific updates on that country.

Check out these US safety resources here!

The Best Website for Language and Communication

Google translate.

Google Translate is the best site for translating any media in a destination’s language that you cannot read.

I have used this for booking everything from ferries to researching attractions. And, it always makes things much more clear and decipherable!

Google Translate also has an app (check out my best travel apps list here !) so you can translate on the go while in your destination. You can’t beat it!

Use Google Translate now!

The Best Trip Planning Websites for Money Matters

Ready for adventure subscribe today..

Unsubscribe at anytime.

XE Currency

I use one site and one site only for currency needs, and that is XE.

It is the best currency conversion app in my opinion, and has been useful to me in just about every country I have traveled to.

In cases where the conversion rate is more complicated or requires mental gymnastics, XE is for you. It’s great to have on hand when you are grocery shopping or counting your change in another currency, among many other situation.

Check out XE now!

You May Also Like: Long Haul Flight Essentials

The Best Travel Planning Websites for Flights

I have two main website suggestions for flight booking.

Particularly useful for my friends over in Europe and Asia, Skyscanner is a great resource for cheap flights!

Explore flight information from many different airlines and find affordable routes. You can easily find the quickest route and cheapest route, depending on what your priority may be.

You also can use the awesome “Everywhere” feature in the search box to find flights to destinations you may not have considered. Love that most of all!

Check out Skyscanner here!

Google Flights

I find Google Flights to be better for travel originating in or ending in the United States, over Skyscanner.

I can easily find the best deals to just about every location, and can even search entire region or use the map view. Google Flights is my number one flight research tool for US travel.

Check out Google Flights here!

The Best Trip Planning Websites for Getting Around

Google maps.

You likely are already familiar with Google Maps. But did you know that it was super useful for travel, too?

They have a pretty extensive database across the globe. Personally, I use the app to download offline maps (read more about that here) and to bookmark places I plan to visit.

Check out Google Maps here!

If you are a hiker, you should definitely be using AllTrails to plan your hikes. It is the most comprehensive website I’ve found for trails within the USA and abroad.

Check out AllTrails here!

You May Also Like: The Best Hiking Gear for Women

The Best Website for Specialty Food Needs

For all my vegetarians and vegans out there, this one is a gem!

If you are headed to a destination that is difficult to navigate as a vegetarian or vegan, this website will help.

You can look up restaurants across the entire world and see where you can find a sit down meal. I’ve used it in many countries and find it very helpful.

Check out Happy Cow here!

So, there you have all my top trip planning websites for just an=bout any destination I am headed!

Are there any other websites that you would add to the list? If so let me know below!

More Trip Planning Resources:

• Long Haul Flight Essentials
• A Pre Travel Checklist for Any Vacation
• The Best Travel Apps
• A Tropical Vacation Packing List for Women
• How To Plan A Roadtrip Alone (Checklist Included!)
• Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium in Palm Springs (2023)
• A Complete Doha Stopover & Doha Layover Guide
• The 13 Best Doha Tours and Day Trips
• 31 Places To Visit in Doha, Qatar

The post The 17 Best Trip Planning Websites for Travelers appeared first on This Rare Earth .

'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean?

ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing.

When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers.

ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form .

The best trip planner apps to make your travels easier

Booking a trip can be an exciting yet daunting task. As if booking airfare, hotel, and transportation weren't enough, you also need to consider food, sights, and attractions. As a travel lover myself, I often dread planning and preparing for a trip. Not only do I never have the time, but I often get oversaturated by the vast amount of information found online and the fear of getting scammed. 

Also:  The best travel credit cards

Over the years, I've found the best websites and apps to help smooth out the planning process. These apps help me keep track of all my reservations, send me booking reminders, and guarantee I always find the best prices -- because there is nothing worse than falling for tourist traps or overpriced offerings. 

Whether you are a spontaneous or a nitty-gritty planner traveler, ZDNET has tested and reviewed the best trip planner apps on the market. Our top pick for the best trip planner site and app is Booking.com due to its easy-to-use user interface, extensive booking capabilities, and pricing. However, since not every trip or traveler is the same, we've included several options to help you plan and stay organized during your travels. 

Keep reading to learn more about ZDNET's expert-tested and reviewed trip planner apps. 

Also: The best travel gadgets

The best trip planner apps of 2023

Booking.com, best overall trip planner.

• Multiple bookings
• Great deals
• Can earn points from bookings and reservations
• Easy to use
• No group planning
• Can't organize bookings per trip

Booking.com features:   Platform: App and website |  Compatibility:  iOS and Android |  Pricing:  Free |  Booking:  Yes |  Group planning:  No

When planning my trips, I always make a stop at the Booking.com app, especially when reserving hotels. I find their user interface visually appealing and easy to use, and that it provides just the right amount of information I need when scrolling through hotel suggestions. Personally, I enjoy that I can add my top picks to my favorites with a quick tap of a heart, glance through reviews, look at cancellation policies, and even find out how far away hotels are from key spots. Through Booking.com, you can also book flights, car rentals, taxis, and city attractions, making it a great all-in-one place to plan and book upcoming weekend getaways or longer vacations. While I have personally never used the car rentals, taxis, or city attractions components of the app, I enjoy knowing that if I ever needed to, I can quickly hop on my phone and glance at the latest offerings. 

My favorite feature when using Booking.com to plan trips is the offers and promotions it displays for users. In the app, when you click your profile, you can see your "Genius" loyalty program status as well as discover the best deals around the world for your specific chosen dates. My only critique of Booking.com is that it does not enable group trip planning or let you organize your bookings per trip. This means if you are planning a trip with a friend, only one person can book and have access to reservations. 

Also: The best luggage

Best trip planner for organization

• Synced with e-mail inbox
• Organizes reservations no matter where you book
• Works offline
• Can't make any bookings
• Need to pay for advanced features
• UI could use an upgrade

TripIt features:   Platform:  App and website |  Compatibility: iOS and Android | Pricing: Free or $49 per year | Booking: No | Group planning: Yes

In terms of planning a trip, creating an itinerary, and keeping all your information in one place, TripIt is one of the best travel apps to keep yourself organized. When you first create an account, TripIt will sync with your inbox and automatically add all of your upcoming flights and reservations to your account. You can then modify each trip to include as little or as much information as you'd like. As someone who likes to be spontaneous when traveling, I usually only add the essentials: flight information, hotel reservations, and important documents. However, if you like to plan your trips down by the hour, you can also include activities, restaurant reservations, transportation, and more in your trip plan to share with fellow travelers.

As your trip approaches, TripIt will also send you packing reminders, give you COVID-19 travel guidance, and show transportation options. While you can get most of the essential features within the free version of the app (this is the one I use), you can also pay $49 a year to get advanced features such as check-in reminders, real-time flight alerts, point tracking, and even notifications for drops in airfare prices. 

Keep in mind that while TripIt gives you transportation options and finds places near your hotel, you cannot book or make any reservations directly from the app. The app is solely used to organize and keep track of all of your travel plans in one place, no matter where you book them. 

Best AI trip planner

• Personalized travel itinerary
• Hotel booking
• Can modify recommendations
• Group planning enabled
• Only available as a website
• No flight or restaurant booking

Guide features:   Platform: Website  Compatibility: all major browsers |  Pricing:  Free | Booking: Yes, but hotels only | Group Planning: Yes  Generative AI is everyone's favorite buzzword this year, and slowly but surely, it has been making its way across all industries -- including the travel industry. Guide is an innovative AI travel planning tool that creates personalized travel itineraries based on your preferences. (Full disclosure, it's also owned by ZDNET's sister company. It's currently in private beta, but you can join a wait list.) All you need to do is select your destination, the dates, whether you are traveling alone or in a group, your budget, and the types of activities you are looking for, and Guide will do the planning. 

After generating a trip itinerary for you based on your prompt, Guide then lets you modify and customize the itinerary to your liking. I recently used Guide to plan a six-day trip to Austin, Texas, and this was the feature I enjoyed the most, since I had specific restaurants and activities I wanted to incorporate into my trip, but I also needed some additional recommendations. While you can't book flights or restaurant reservations through Guide, you can book and find great hotel deals powered by Expedia on the platform. 

Guide will also give you an overall budget for your trip, a packing list, and a comprehensive list of things to know about your destination -- which may be helpful for some more than others. While my trip to Austin was a solo trip, Guide has a feature where you can invite other fellow travelers to collaborate in planning your trip through Guide's chatbot, GuideBot. This chatbot also works sort of like ChatGPT, where you can ask GuideBot questions about your trip, your destination, or recommendations. Keep in mind you can not ask GuideBot to directly modify your trip for you, and instead need to manually do it yourself -- believe me, I tried. 

Tripadvisor

Best trip planner app for reviews.

• Countless reviews
• Used by travelers worldwide
• Variety of information
• Booking capabilities
• Great for local spots
• Booking is not its strongest feature and you may not always find the best deals
• Doesn't vet reviews

Tripadvisor  features: Platform:  App and website |  Compatibility:  iOS and Android |  Pricing:  Free |  Booking:  Yes |  Group planning:  No

Reading customer reviews is one of the most important steps when planning a trip. While you shouldn't base all of your decisions on reviews, you should consider past customer experiences to get a feel for the brand and company you are about to trust, or the experience you are going to pay for.  When it comes to travel reviews, Tripadvisor is the best trip planner app to rely on. Since the platform has so many reviews for restaurants, activities, accommodations, and locations all over the world, it is always easy and convenient to log onto the app or website to help you make an educated decision. (However, remember that not all Tripadvisor reviews are legit, since the platform does not independently verify customer postings.) Beyond reviews, TripAdvisor also lets you book hotels, restaurants, things to do, and more while also providing detailed insights into their offerings -- including cancellation policies, ratings, and features. 

Tripadvisor's "Travelers' Choice" best-of list is also a popular part of its platform, allowing visitors to see top-rated destinations, hotels, restaurants, and things to do around the world. With Tripadvisor, you can plan a trip yourself from scratch, hire a trip designer, or get a custom itinerary built by AI. 

Best trip planner app for transportation

• Great multi-mode travel comparison
• convenient and seamless transportation booking
• Multiple currency and language availability
• Flight deals and suggestions are not the strongest
• Limited offers depending on the country or city of travel
• Not the most reliable customer service

Omio features:  Platform:  App and website |  Compatibility:  iOS and Android |  Pricing:  Free |  Booking:  Yes, transportation only |  Group planning:  No

I first discovered Omio when a friend recommended it to me while I was studying abroad in Spain, and ever since I downloaded it, it has become my go-to app for booking the best deals and fares on transportation within Europe. The concept behind Omio is simple: You plug in your departure and arrival location, including the number of people you are traveling with, and add whether you are looking for a one-way or round-trip journey. Omio will then show you the best deals by train, bus, or plane to and from your desired destination, including how much time each option will take you and the number of stops. 

The German-based travel booking site is great at aggregating travel information from multiple sites, allowing you to view all of your transportation options in one place. This is incredibly beneficial when planning trips within Europe since there are several ways you can cross each border and often various languages and regulations to keep in mind. Omio is set in English but has multiple additional languages available, as well as currency options. During my time abroad, I solely used Omio to book all of my transportation, including planning a 17-day trip across seven different European countries. Overall, using Omio was not only convenient and seamless but also helped me save hundreds of dollars by helping me maximize my travel time by switching between flights, trains, and buses. 

However, since returning from Europe, I have not used Omio as much as I thought I would -- maybe because I have a car and take most of my trips by plane. And Omio's flight deals and suggestions are not the strongest compared to Booking.com or Skyscanner's, which heavily focus on flight deals. I have also found they have some limitations depending on the country or city you are traveling in. Be mindful of the deals and tickets you buy through Omio since some tickets are non-refundable, and some customers complain their customer service is not the best -- although I have yet to have any issues with them. 

What is the best trip planner app?

Booking.com gets our vote for the best trip planner app due to its wide selection of accommodations, its points and promotions offerings, and its easy-to-use user interface. Not only does Booking.com help you find the best deals throughout your trip, but it will also help you stay organized throughout your trip by keeping all of your reservations in one place. To determine which trip planner app or combination of trip planners is best for you, check out this comparison chart below. 

Which is the right trip planner app for you?

The best trip planner app ultimately depends on your travel and planning style. If you like booking and planning everything in one place while also earning points and getting great deals, then Booking.com is your top app. However, if you are looking for a place to keep all of your accommodations, reservations, and activity details organized, then TripIt is a better app for you. Check out the following chart to help you find the best trip planner app or a combination of apps for you to plan your next adventure. 

How did we choose these trip planner apps?

To find the best trip planner apps, we drew upon real-life experiences and tested their performance and capabilities during our latest trips. Ultimately, we weighted the following factors when choosing which trip planners to include on our list: 

• Features: Each app can vary significantly with the features it offers, whether it is solely to book flights and hotels, help you plan your next trip using AI, or help you find the best deals and booking information, each app on this list can help you address several common inconveniences that present themselves while planning that next adventure.  
• Compatibility: An app is of little use if it does not work with your devices, so we look to see what compatibility each trip-planning app offers and which platforms you can access it from. Personally, I enjoy apps that combine an app and website component since this quickly helps me switch between my wide computer screen and my tiny yet portable iPhone screen. 
• Customer reviews: We study real customer reviews and ratings to evaluate customer satisfaction and service. This is incredibly important since most times when you travel, you visit an unknown city or country, and you should be mindful of past experiences others have had. 
• Cost : Most trip planner apps are free, but you may have to upgrade to receive special access to exclusive features or deals. If your app is already free, it means you only have to pay a small amount (often unnoticeable) when you book your accommodations. 

What is a trip planner app?

A trip planner app is an app that provides organizational features for your upcoming trip. It is often free and incorporates trip planning tools, whether you are traveling by ground, water or air.   

How does a trip planner app work?

A trip planner app can incorporate special features, like an itinerary, calendar, reservation and booking hub, and map assistance. Depending on the app you choose, there is even trip-sharing with friends and family to simplify the entire trip planning process.  

How much does a trip planner app cost?

Most trip planner apps are free, but some may offer in-app purchases to upgrade or enhance your experience. Within this list, only Tripit costs money, but only for their advanced features version, which costs $49 a year. However, you can get access to most if not all, trip-planning features, through their free version. 

Are there alternative trip planner apps worth considering?

As I mentioned earlier, trip planning heavily depends on your personal style of travel and preferences. However, whether you like to plan your trips down by the minute or prefer to just have the basics, there are several apps that can optimize your planning. Here are a few apps worth considering that almost made it onto our list: 

ZDNET Recommends

The 5 tech gadgets i never hike without, the best travel vpns: expert tested, the best portable power stations for camping: expert tested.

• © Roadtrippers
• © Mapbox
• © OpenStreetMap
• Improve this map

Chat with Us

TRIP PLANNER

Plan your trip.

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

• LISTEN & FOLLOW
• Apple Podcasts
• Google Podcasts
• Amazon Music

Your support helps make our show possible and unlocks access to our sponsor-free feed.

How to plan your dream vacation

Sometimes you crave a vacation — but actually taking one feels out of reach. Maybe you're struggling to find the time or save up the money. Or maybe you just can't seem to launch those plans out of the group chat. Overcome that planning inertia and take the big trip of your dreams. Here's where to start your search, organize your logistics and enjoy yourself.

MARIELLE SEGARRA, HOST:

You're listening to LIFE KIT...

(SOUNDBITE OF MUSIC)

SEGARRA: ...From NPR.

Hey, everybody. It's Marielle. You remember the early part of the pandemic when the days of isolation stretched into months? At night, I would lay on the floor of my apartment with my eyes closed and listen to guided meditations, to try to take myself to a happier place. One time the prompt was something like, picture yourself doing something that brings you great joy. The first thing that popped into my head was an image of me wandering the cobblestone streets of some small European village, probably in France. The sun was shining, and every step I took was a feast for the eyes. Medieval houses, colorful flowers resting in vases on outdoor tables, patisseries with gorgeous pastries in the window, just waiting to be eaten.

I didn't realize until that moment just how much I missed traveling and how badly I wanted to look at something outside of my four walls or the blocks of my neighborhood. The next year, I took a three-week trip to the U.K. and France, and I ate those pastries and wandered until my feet hurt and filled a hole that had been growing inside of me.

Big trips can do that. Lale Arikoglu knows what I'm talking about. She's the articles director at Conde Nast Traveler.

LALE ARIKOGLU: On a really basic level, I think it's just being able to have a break from the crush of regular life, whether that's work or childcare or school, wherever it may be, you know, the opportunity to just take yourself out of your routine and be somewhere else and get to immerse yourself in that place to me is, like, the main draw of it.

SEGARRA: Now, when we talk about a big trip, that could mean different things depending on your travel style and your budget. You know, it might be a long road trip or an extended stay at a cottage in the woods or a multi-city tour on another continent. But it's typically something you save up for and plan months in advance. Lale has a big trip coming up. She's going to Peru.

ARIKOGLU: I've been waiting to do it for a long time. The reason to go there is for a friend's wedding. And now I'm building a trip around it, and it's going to be about ten days long with multi-stops, you know, having to choose multiple places to stay. And logistically, you know, it's actually taking some thought and some planning. One of the things that we're going to do when we're there is hike Machu Picchu. There's a group of us going. And Machu Picchu - it's a dream to see and experience.

SEGARRA: Now, it's easy to get bogged down in trip planning. And it might stop you from booking the thing entirely, but Lale says, do it. It's worth it.

On this episode of LIFE KIT, Lale shares her best tips on planning the big trip of your dreams. We'll talk about where to start your search, what logistical questions you should ask yourself and how to actually relax and enjoy yourself once you're there.

SEGARRA: Let's say I do want to take a big trip, right? I'm feeling that itch to travel, but...

ARIKOGLU: Right.

SEGARRA: ...I don't have a destination in mind yet or a duration. I'm really starting from scratch. Where does the planning start?

ARIKOGLU: When you start the planning, you've really got to think what you want to get out of the trip. You know, If you really just want to decompress and relax and rest, then you probably don't want to do some like multi-stop European city trip, right? You probably don't want to hike Machu Picchu. Perhaps it is that you're incredibly bored of your surroundings, and you need adventure and you need excitement. And therefore, you're going to be thinking of some really different destinations. It might be that you're traveling alone for the first time. You've decided to do a solo trip. You know, where is a place that might feel comfortable for you as a solo traveler, but still feels like it's taking you out of your comfort zone? So I think it's sitting with yourself and thinking, OK, what is, like, the goal here? That's takeaway one. Ask yourself what do you want to get from this? Set the mission of your trip.

It feels like another really important detail at the beginning is budget, right? Like, how much money do you realistically want to spend on this trip or can you afford to spend?

ARIKOGLU: And, you know, that's going to look different for everyone. If we're talking big trips, rarely are they spontaneous, right? You're planning for a long time. So that also allows you to save and finance for it. No, there's lots of great savings apps that can just, you know, that take a little bit of money out of your paycheck every few weeks, and you can kind of start, like, a travel fund that way. I think that's quite a nice way to do it. But I think, you know, you can do a big trip on a budget. It doesn't have to be, I think, a lavish, international trip. I mean, you know, we're going into spring and summer, there are so many incredible national parks to see, there are so many amazing, very diverse, different cities. There's, like, so much on your doorstep, so I think you can really argue, you don't have to cross continents to have a big trip. And so if that feels a more affordable way to get away for a couple of weeks, then, you know, look in your backyard.

SEGARRA: Right. I wonder, too, like, part of budget, besides money, is also time. Like, how much vacation time do you have? Do you have any tips for people who don't have that much vacation time?

ARIKOGLU: So I think if you look at the calendar and you look at where the holiday weekends fall, There are some tricks to being able to kind of, like, turn your limited number of vacation days into - kind of you can stretch it out if you bookend it with a holiday weekend or something like that. But on the flip side, it's also most expensive time to travel, right? There is an argument for choosing shoulder season, so that's not traveling to a destination when it's at its peak. And this is great for your own personal experience, but it's also in terms of helping that destination deal with overtourism, overcrowding. If we're talking about Europe, for example, the summers are getting hotter. So avoiding those really intense, hot, summer seasons can actually be really advantageous for your own travel plans.

SEGARRA: Yeah. That seems like maybe the next thing to consider as you're planning a big trip before you start looking at destinations is what time of year are you looking to travel?

ARIKOGLU: Definitely. And that's more of a luxury for some people because If you're having to navigate school holidays, then you're a little bit more limited. But again, it's sort of when you're thinking about carving out those goals and what you want to get out of the trip. Maybe it's the seasonality that's really important. Maybe it's all you want is hot weather and a beach. You know, if you're planning some summer travel, you could totally flip things on its head and go experience winter somewhere. I went to Patagonia when it was entering into their fall in Chile, and it was a really magnificent time to be there, and it was when New York City was going into spring. It felt like upside-down land to be choosing to do that, and it was so wonderful. It was great.

SEGARRA: Yeah. I think there's a lot of room for creativity there. And also, as you said, like, it opens up more possibilities if you consider going places during the shoulder season.

ARIKOGLU: And you get to be in a place and actually be in the place with the people who live there. One thing in August, if you go to Europe, everyone who lives there has, you know, gone off somewhere else on vacation to escape the heat and the tourists, and so, you know, you're in Rome with just all the other tourists and none of the Romans.

SEGARRA: All right, so takeaway two. Before you land on a destination, think about your constraints. What time of year do you plan to travel? For how long? What budget are you working with? If you're short on time, you can make use of holidays or pick a destination closer to home. If you're short on money, think creatively. You know, maybe you do a road trip through some parks or cities nearby.

SEGARRA: It seems like another thing to consider here is, how much do you like crowds? Because for me, it kind of ruins a trip or an experience if everywhere I go is super crowded. I get very overwhelmed by that and overstimulated.

ARIKOGLU: And it's also, you know, who are the crowds? Because there's been times when I've gone somewhere and I've gone and done the same bucket list site that everyone else is, and you're sort of standing there and you're thinking, What am I actually here for? Well, what is the purpose of this? What am I getting out of it? What am I giving to this destination other than just being another member of the crowd?

SEGARRA: Yeah. I think that's an important question, right? 'Cause, like, we have been talking about what are you looking to get out of it, for the most part. But there's another side to this - right? - and it's what am I giving? And also, what am I taking? Like, am I taking too much from this place?

ARIKOGLU: I think about that a lot. When you're planning, be really thoughtful about where you're spending your money. When you're choosing a hotel, is it a hotel that is locally owned? What restaurants are you booking? Where are you shopping? Where are you buying your souvenirs? You know, I think there's lots of ways to be really thoughtful about, you know, how you spend your money, and that can go into your budgeting, as well.

SEGARRA: I know there are certain places that at a certain time, at least, they said, please, tourists, like, please stop coming or stop coming during this time.

ARIKOGLU: Yeah. When a destination says that, I mean, it's something to be taken so seriously because they're usually destinations that have an infrastructure or an economy that really relies on tourism. So things have to have gotten pretty bad for a destination to say, take a beat, not right now, and listen to that, and, you know, the place will be better for it when you do go see it.

SEGARRA: I picture it as if you were, like, going to - going over, like, a friend's house uninvited, or, like, if they were like, please, today's not good. Like, our whole family's sick, like, we're all throwing up, and then you were still banging on the door, like, hey, what are you doing? Can I come stay over?

ARIKOGLU: I think that is a perfect analogy. Perfect. And no one wants to be that person.

SEGARRA: No.

ARIKOGLU: I'd hate to be that person.

SEGARRA: That'd be weird behavior.

ARIKOGLU: Yeah.

SEGARRA: Takeaway three, travel responsibly. Research the places you're interested in, and make sure they want tourists at the time you're looking to visit. When you're booking, consider putting your money toward the local economy rather than international chains. Also, learn about whatever destination you choose. Be open to the cultural practices and languages there. And be a respectful visitor.

Anything else that people would want to figure out before they start narrowing down or looking at destinations?

ARIKOGLU: I think it's also thinking about who you want to travel with. Someone can be your best friend, but they can be your worst roommate. I think travel's kind of the same, so kind of finding someone to travel with or a group of people to travel with who you're aligned with in the planning stage, rather than when you get there and then you suddenly discover you all want to do different things. So I think communicating right off the back what you all want out of the trip and what you're excited about and also being really honest with each other about finances.

If you're on a group trip, I mean, it's like splitting the bill, but a thousand times worse. And so I think if you can kind of, like, set some parameters at the start and be really honest about what you feel comfortable spending money on because inevitably, there is going to be some people on the trip who want to spend more money on some things than others.

SEGARRA: Yeah. And it seems like that conversation, there should be some form of that before you book anything.

ARIKOGLU: Yes, 100%. And, you know, I think even if you don't feel comfortable doing it, speaking up if something just feels too expensive.

SEGARRA: All right. So takeaway four, figure out who you're traveling with. You might prefer to travel alone, or if you're going with friends, partners, or family, just make sure you're on the same page about what you want from the trip - the pace, the activities and how much money you can spend.

SEGARRA: OK. So it sounds like we've given people a lot of things to consider before they choose a destination. Once they've done this soul searching, how can they start to find destinations that fit those desires and limitations?

ARIKOGLU: For me, part of the fun of travel planning is doing the research, whether it is a trusted travel publication or reading some books you love or going on to - you know, there's, like, a ton of just, like, online communities of people who love swapping travel tips and actually, I think, can be really helpful.

SEGARRA: Yeah. I think it can be helpful maybe to in the brainstorming stage to just, like, not go in too deep but just make a list of places that seem exciting to you and that might fit your parameters. Like, I have a Google Doc, and it's just, like, places that I would be really excited to go.

SEGARRA: When you are considering a destination, how helpful is social media - is - like, seeing where your friends are going or where influencers are going? Is it a good idea to follow those trends?

ARIKOGLU: I think it can be useful in picking things you want to do once you're there, particularly if it's, like, based around, like, big events or openings. You know, we have our best places to go list that runs every year. It could be, like, new train routes, new hiking routes, new museums that have opened, things that are happening in destinations centered around an anniversary. So, you know, kind of consulting those sorts of lists and rounds up as well can be very helpful. But I think, you know, going back to what we were talking about in terms of over tourism or overcrowding - you know, on social media, you will see people at the same spots time and time again. And they're usually spots where just around the corner, there's also something equally beautiful to see.

SEGARRA: Yeah. Like, I remember when Santorini was really popular. And it's like, whew - like, if you could actually see what was going on behind that photo, like, you would hate being there because it's so - it's just way too many people...

ARIKOGLU: Right. Right.

SEGARRA: ...All lining up to take a picture in - against that beautiful backdrop.

ARIKOGLU: Exactly. And, you know, it's Santorini. It's all beautiful. It's all amazing.

SEGARRA: OK. So takeaway five is to choose a destination. And cast a wide net when you're brainstorming 'cause you never know what's going to catch your eye. Also, Lale says, do your best to think outside of the current travel trends. Though you can use them for inspiration.

So once you've got a destination in mind, how can you start to sketch out the details of the trip? And I guess I should say, how much detail do you really need to figure out?

ARIKOGLU: So I was going to say, don't overschedule yourself, and don't overbook yourself. I think I've been guilty of doing that before, and then you realize that you have no downtime. It might seem like you're being really efficient, but you need a little bit of spontaneity on your trip. Don't overschedule. If there are a few key things you really want to do that you feel you will be crushed if you don't get to do it, then book it. Make sure that's arranged all in advance. So maybe it's finding one thing on each day of your trip. That's what you center your day around and you can frame your itinerary around that, but I wouldn't overschedule.

SEGARRA: Yeah. And then I think when you look at these things potentially sketched out on different days, then you say like, you know, that seems too busy. What's the most important to me here? Like, which of these activities do I want to book ahead?

ARIKOGLU: Right. You know, if you're suddenly realizing - you're like, I am cramming a lot in if I try to go to these three places, then choosing which one to let go.

SEGARRA: Yeah. 'Cause that's always a consideration, too. Like, if you're flying somewhere far, you might think, well, I'm already going to Poland, should I also do Germany?

SEGARRA: There's that impulse, you know? Or I'm going to Poland, so I want to see all of Poland. But that can make for a very frenetic kind of trip.

ARIKOGLU: And you wouldn't tell someone who was visiting America to be like, well, you've come all the way to America, so if you're going to New York, then you also need to go to New Orleans.

SEGARRA: Right, right. Exactly. That's Takeaway 6 - keep your schedule light and malleable. Lally recommends picking only one activity to do for each day of your trip and then building a flexible itinerary around those.

You know, it occurs to me that another element of a big trip when I'm going into them - I know that something's going to go awry during it.

ARIKOGLU: Always (laughter).

SEGARRA: Yeah.

SEGARRA: I remember being in Barcelona when I was in college. I went by myself for, like, a week. And I speak Spanish, but it wasn't fluent at the time. And I just got - I just missed being able to easily say what I wanted to say, and I went into, like, a Wendy's or something because I just wanted something kind of American. And I got some chicken nuggets. I couldn't think how to say nuggets in Spanish. Like, I was like, is that even a word, like, in Spanish, or did they just say nuggets? And I just broke and started speaking in English because I was trying to only speak Spanish. And I was like, I give up. Like, can I get some chicken nuggets, please?

ARIKOGLU: The true American in you comes out screaming at chicken nuggets in a foreign McDonald's.

SEGARRA: Yeah, yeah, give me my nuggies.

ARIKOGLU: (Laughter).

SEGARRA: Yeah, I just - like, sometimes you just need to go roll up into a ball and eat your chicken nuggies and be by yourself for a minute and then come back out, you know?

ARIKOGLU: Yeah. I mean, like, travel so much of the time is sort of, like, infantilizing because you're so powerless. But it's, like, the same in an airport. You're just sort of powerless at a certain extent when things go wrong. And I think my approach to it - to sort of very taxing and challenging air travel schedules, with connections and potential miss flights and lost luggage and all the things that come with that - is to sort of just give myself up to the airport gods, and just as soon as I'm, like, through TSA, just be like, what will be will be. I'll get there eventually and just, like, I'm powerless. And that's been, like, for me, quite liberating. And it also means that I'm not the person screaming at some poor gate agent when things go wrong.

SEGARRA: Yeah, it's a moment of - it's actually an opportunity for mindfulness. Like, I think that could even be helpful going into a big trip, to tell yourself, like, something is going to go wrong. Yeah, just keep that in mind.

ARIKOGLU: Oh, my God, so much of travel is about being tired and hungry.

SEGARRA: We're really selling this.

ARIKOGLU: I know.

SEGARRA: (Laughter).

ARIKOGLU: I'm like, my whole job is to travel. It's great.

SEGARRA: Isn't it terrible? Yeah.

SEGARRA: I try to remind myself, like - what is the point? - like, go back to those goals. What is the point of this? It's to have a good experience, to meet those needs, to give myself what I've been craving.

ARIKOGLU: Exactly. And I don't know. This sounds a little cheesy and a little trite, but anyone who gets to travel is really lucky. Ultimately, it's a real privilege that you get to do it. And it's such a freedom and it's such a special thing.Don't make it stressful.

SEGARRA: That's our final takeaway. Something on your trip is bound to go wrong. So once you're there, sit back and try to surrender. After all, traveling in the first place is a treat.

SEGARRA: OK, jet-setters, time for a recap. First, figure out what you want from this vacation. Decide your budget and time constraints. Commit to traveling ethically. Make sure you're aligned with the people you're traveling with. When you choose a destination, cast a wide net and have fun with the research. Don't overschedule yourself, and once you're there, relax and roll with the punches. For more LIFE KIT, check out our other episodes. We've got one on how to find cheap flights and another on how to pack your suitcase like a pro. You can find those at np.org/lifekit. And if you love LIFE KIT and you just cannot get enough, subscribe to our newsletter at np.org/lifekitnewsletter. Also, we love hearing from you, so if you have episode ideas or feedback you want to share, e-mail us at [email protected].

This episode of LIFE KIT was produced by Margaret Cirino. Our visuals editor is Beck Harlan and our digital editor is Malaka Gharib. Meghan Keane is our supervising editor and Beth Donovan is our executive producer. Our production team also includes Andee Tagle, Clare Marie Schneider and Sylvie Douglis. Engineering support comes from Robert Rodriguez. I'm Marielle Segarra. Thanks for listening.

Copyright © 2024 NPR. All rights reserved. Visit our website terms of use and permissions pages at www.npr.org for further information.

NPR transcripts are created on a rush deadline by an NPR contractor. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Accuracy and availability may vary. The authoritative record of NPR’s programming is the audio record.

How can we help you today?

Popular searches.

• Contactless payments
• Routes and timetables
• Concessions
• School student travel
• Opal Travel app

3 travel apps you need before your next flight to keep you out of long TSA lines

Travel can be stressful, especially when airports are involved. 

Flights get delayed, or, worse still, canceled.  

Ever-growing security lines sometimes snake through the airport, putting you in jeopardy of missing your flight.

Last-minute changes can happen and derail months of planning, potentially starting off your trip on a bad note.

Programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry can help travelers, but there are also ways that tech can help you prepare for your journey and stay aware of the curveballs that might come your way.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Here are three apps to download before your next trip. 

Watch the video above to learn which three apps you need before your next trip. 

Airline app 

Download your airline’s app! 

It keeps all of your travel information in one, easy-to-access place. 

Turn on notifications to get immediate alerts when it's time to check in so you'll know if there are any delays or gate changes. 

Once you have a boarding pass, save even more time by adding it to the digital wallet on your smartphone.

The lines at airport security can be very unpredictable. Sometimes there is no wait, other times, the line extends into the check-in area. 

The Transportation Security Agency’s (TSA) app, MyTSA, tries to make the wait a little more predictable and helps you determine what to expect, especially if you’re traveling from one of the busiest airports in the US.  

The app provides a real-time look at your selected airport's wait time, any FAA delays, and which TSA PreCheck lanes are open. 

The app also uses historical data to help you plan ahead. So, even if your flight is three days away, the app can show you what you’re likely to encounter that day based on previous experiences. 

It’s also a useful resource if you’re unsure about what you can or can’t pack in your carry-on and checked luggage.

Mobile Passport Control

If you’re traveling abroad, the Mobile Passport Control app makes your return through U.S. customs much faster. 

The app is a digital version of the Customs and Border Patrol Declaration Form that anyone entering the U.S. is required to fill out.  

You can save up to 12 profiles in the app, and only one form is needed per family, per residence. 

The app doesn't work at every airport, so check  the CBP website to see where you can use it. 

Reviewed-approved iPhone accessories  

Purchases you make through our links may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.   

Reviewed helps you find the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. Our team of tech experts test everything from Apple AirPods and screen protectors to iPhone tripods and car mounts so you can shop for the best of the best. 

• The best rugged iPhone case: Spigen Slim Armor  
• A top wireless charger: Yootech Wireless Charger  
• Our favorite screen protector: Ailun Glass Screen Protector  
• The best portable battery pack: Mophie Powerstation Plus  
• Durable phone car holders: Beam Electronics Phone Holder  
• An iPhone tripod we love: Aureday Phone Tripod  
• The best lightning cable: Anker 6 ft Premium Double-Braided Nylon Lightning Cable  

More problems, solved

• Pre-travel checklist: 4 things you need to do before your next trip
• Plan your trip: 3 tips to plan your next trip using social media
• Easily get around: 4 tech tips to easily explore a new city
• Stream offline: How to watch TV shows, movies offline
• Communicate in any language: 5 ways to use Google Translate on your phone
• Photograph your food: 4 tips to capture delicious photos of your food
• Snap the perfect pic: 4 iPhone camera tricks you need to know

• Plan a Road Trip
• Plan a Flight
• Find an Airport
• Where to Stay
• All Questions

Moscow to Kostroma via Elektrostal

Moscow to kostroma road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Moscow to Kostroma. If you're planning a road trip to Kostroma, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start in Moscow drive for about 1 hour

11:07 am   Elektrostal stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:07 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

1:50 pm   Vladimir stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:50 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

4:25 pm   Ivanovo stay for about 1 hour and leave at 5:25 pm drive for about 1 hour

6:31 pm  arrive in Kostroma

driving ≈ 5.5 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Elektrostal Vladimir   (2 answers) Ivanovo

What are some things to do in Kostroma?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Kostroma.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Kostroma to Moscow drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Moscow to Kostroma . Or get a full Moscow to Kostroma flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Moscow well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Moscow!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Moscow to Kostroma

places to eat

alternate routes

Google driving directions

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Congestion Pricing Will Start on June 30 in New York City, M.T.A. Says

Transit officials announced the start of the program, which they have said will ease some of the nation’s worst traffic.

By Ana Ley and Winnie Hu

The first comprehensive congestion-pricing program in a major U.S. city will begin in New York on June 30, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority announced on Friday.

The plan remains contentious, however, and with months to go before its scheduled rollout, legal and political clashes could still dilute or stop it altogether. A growing number of opponents — including Gov. Philip D. Murphy of New Jersey, influential unions and some elected New York officials — recently ratcheted up their effort to block it.

The program is meant to ease some of the worst traffic in the nation, improve the city’s air quality, increase mass transit ridership and raise money to modernize the city’s subway, bus and commuter rail system. Congestion-pricing tolls are expected to generate $1 billion a year, with the revenue earmarked by law for capital projects, not operating costs.

The authority, which operates the mass transit system, also said on Friday that it had opened a portal for applicants seeking the program’s coveted discounts and exemptions. A website will guide drivers on who qualifies and how to apply.

Under the program, most passenger cars will be charged $15 a day to enter a so-called congestion zone below 60th Street in Manhattan. Trucks would pay $24 or $36, depending on their size. Taxi fares would increase by $1.25, and Uber and Lyft fares would rise by $2.50.

The program is widely unpopular by many measures. A survey of about 800 New Yorkers conducted this month by Siena College found that 63 percent opposed it. Still, out of more than 25,000 public comments about congestion pricing submitted to the transportation authority from late December to mid-March, roughly 60 percent expressed support, the authority said.

M.T.A. and federal transportation officials are defending it against six lawsuits in federal courts in New York and New Jersey that seek to halt the plan. The courts, which are expected to rule before the program starts, could possibly delay or block it.

“They are proceeding at their own risk in arrogant disregard of pending court cases,” said Jack L. Lester, a lawyer for a group of city residents who filed one of the suits.

This month, a federal judge in Newark heard arguments in a suit brought by New Jersey officials who argue that the congestion-pricing plan would shift traffic and pollution to some communities in the state as drivers try to avoid the tolls.

“We are awaiting a court ruling as early as next month on whether the M.T.A.’s unprecedented congestion-pricing scheme can go forward,” said Randy Mastro, a lawyer for the state of New Jersey, adding that “the jury is still out on this hugely flawed plan.”

The tolling rates, which the authority’s board approved last month , are still being reviewed by the Federal Highway Administration, which has already signed off on an exhaustive study of the program and is expected to approve the tolls.

Congestion pricing is expected to lower the number of vehicles coming into the zone by about 17 percent, according to a November report by an authority advisory committee. The report also said the program would reduce the total number of miles driven by motorists in 28 counties in the metropolitan region.

The fees are also supposed to discourage drivers from jamming roads and idling in gridlock, which contributes to soot and other harmful air pollutants. But some of the program’s harshest critics have pointed to evidence that certain neighborhoods could end up with dirtier air as a result of the traffic that is diverted. In response, the authority has vowed to work to diminish such potential harm .

Other cities that have adopted congestion-pricing programs, such as London, Singapore and Stockholm , have reported sharp drops in traffic and congestion.

David I. Weprin, a Democratic state assemblyman from Queens and a longtime congestion-pricing opponent, said of the plan that the authority was “trying to aggressively ram it down the public’s throat.”

“I don’t think the public wants it and I think it’s really unfair for people who have to drive and have no choice,” Mr. Weprin said. He has joined a lawsuit filed by Vito Fossella, a Republican and Staten Island’s borough president, and the United Federation of Teachers that seeks to keep the tolling plan from proceeding.

Danny Pearlstein, a spokesman for the Riders Alliance, an advocacy group, said in a statement that the start of the program “cannot happen soon enough.”

Congestion pricing, he said, “will be a win-win-win for all New Yorkers, commuters and visitors and will bring better public transit, cleaner air, and freer moving traffic.”

Ana Ley is a Times reporter covering New York City’s mass transit system and the millions of passengers who use it. More about Ana Ley

Winnie Hu is a Times reporter covering the people and neighborhoods of New York City. More about Winnie Hu