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Is Travelgo.com Legit Or A Scam? An In-Depth TravelGo Review

In recent times, online travel booking platforms have become increasingly popular, offering travelers convenience and competitive prices for flight reservations.

One such platform is TravelGo.com , which claims to provide affordable flight bookings for both domestic and international travel.

However, its legitimacy has been a subject of debate among travelers due to mixed user experiences and varying reviews.

In this in-depth review, we’ll explore the features, pros and cons, user reviews, and overall verdict to help you decide whether Travel Go is a trustworthy platform for your travel bookings.

What is TravelGo (Ly.Com)?

TravelGo ( https://www.travelgo.com/ ), also known as Ly.com , is an online travel agency that allows users to search for and book flights from various airlines. The platform claims to offer competitive prices on airfares, enabling travelers to find budget-friendly options for their journeys.

While the website functions as a flight aggregator, it does not operate airlines or provide its own travel services. Instead, TravelGo partners with established airlines to offer flight options to its users.

Pros of TravelGo

TravelGo offers competitive prices, a variety of payment options, easy search and comparison features, partnerships with established airlines, and a user-friendly website.

• Competitive Prices – Some users have reported finding cheaper flight options through TravelGo compared to booking directly through airlines or other travel agencies. The platform’s ability to aggregate flight data from multiple sources can lead to cost savings for certain routes.
• Variety of Payment Options – TravelGo accepts payments through credit cards, PayPal, WeChat, and AliPay, providing users with convenient payment choices. This flexibility makes it easier for travelers from different regions to complete their bookings.
• Search and Compare – The platform allows users to search and compare flights from different airlines, making it easier to find the most suitable option based on their preferences and budgets. This feature streamlines the booking process for users looking for specific flight details.
• Partnered with Established Airlines – TravelGo collaborates with well-known airlines like Virgin Australia, offering flights from reputable carriers. This partnership lends credibility to the platform’s flight options and can give users peace of mind when booking through TravelGo.
• User-Friendly Website – The website design is relatively straightforward, enabling users to navigate and find flight options without much hassle. The booking process is intuitive, and users can complete their reservations with relative ease.

Cons of TravelGo

Below are some cons to consider before using TravelGo for your flight bookings.

• Negative User Reviews – TravelGo has received a significant number of negative reviews, with complaints about poor customer service, difficulty reaching support, and unresolved issues. Many users have expressed frustration with the platform’s lack of responsiveness and lackluster assistance.
• Lack of Information – Some users have raised concerns about the limited information available about the company, including its physical location and registration details. The absence of comprehensive company details can make it challenging for users to assess the platform’s credibility.
• Passport Details Requirement – TravelGo asks for passengers’ passport details even for domestic flights, which may raise privacy and security concerns for some users. Requiring passport information for domestic travel can seem unnecessary and deter potential customers.
• Uncertain Legitimacy – The abundance of negative reviews and the platform’s limited transparency raise questions about TravelGo’s legitimacy and reliability as a travel booking service. Users may hesitate to entrust their travel plans and personal information to a platform with uncertain credentials.

Why TravelGo Appears to be Legitimate?

TravelGo does appear to have some characteristics that may suggest legitimacy:

A. Website and Booking Platform

TravelGo has a functioning website where users can search for and book flights. The platform appears to offer flight options from various airlines, and users can enter their travel details to find available flights.

B. Accepted Payment Methods

According to user reviews, TravelGo accepts payments through various methods, including credit cards, PayPal, WeChat, and AliPay. Accepting multiple payment options can be a sign of a legitimate business.

C. User Reviews

While TravelGo has some negative reviews, it also has a few positive reviews where users have reported successful bookings and satisfactory experiences. User reviews can offer insights into a company’s services and credibility.

D. Contact Information

The platform provides contact details, including an email address and a phone number. Having accessible contact information is a positive sign as it allows users to reach out for assistance or inquiries.

E. Website Design

From the information provided, the website appears to be functional and reasonably well-designed, although it may lack some detailed information about the company itself.

F. Booking with Established Airlines

Users have mentioned booking flights with well-known airlines like Virgin Australia through TravelGo. Collaborating with reputable airlines can indicate that the platform is working with legitimate partners.

TravelGo Review Verdict

While I cannot definitively label TravelGo as a scam, there are numerous red flags and reasons to be cautious about using their services. It’s essential to be aware of these potential issues to protect yourself and make informed decisions when booking through any online platform.

Here are some reasons that might make you skeptical about TravelGo’s legitimacy:

A. Lack of Official Affiliations

TravelGo is not registered with reputable industry bodies such as AFTA (Australian Federation of Travel Agents) ‘s through ATAS (Australian Travel Accreditation Scheme) or other recognized travel associations. Established travel agencies usually have affiliations that provide consumer protection and reassurance.

B. Mandatory Passport Details for Domestic Flights

Requiring passengers to provide passport details for domestic flights is highly unusual and raises concerns about the platform’s intentions and potential misuse of sensitive information.

C. Inconsistent Customer Service

Numerous negative reviews highlight poor customer service from Travel Go. Delayed responses, unhelpful assistance, and difficulty in resolving issues have left customers frustrated and dissatisfied.

D. Obscure Background and Location

The platform’s Chinese origins and the lack of detailed information about the company’s background can make users skeptical about its legitimacy and trustworthiness.

E. Mixed User Reviews

While some users report successful bookings and competitive prices, there are also numerous negative reviews detailing problems with bookings, cancellations, and refunds, raising doubts about the platform’s reliability.

F. Lack of Trustworthy Testimonials

The absence of well-documented and verifiable testimonials from reputable sources may lead users to question the credibility of Travel Go’s claims.

G. Potential Scam Reports

There have been instances where users reported being scammed by travel agencies with similar names, leading to confusion and mistrust in the market.

User Reviews

User reviews of TravelGo are mixed, with some travelers expressing satisfaction with their bookings, citing competitive prices and smooth transactions.

Positive reviews often highlight successful experiences where users secured affordable flights with TravelGo.

However, the platform has also received a substantial number of negative reviews like below. Many users have reported issues with customer service, refund processes, and communication, indicating potential risks when booking through this platform.

Note: Remember, it’s best practice to review recent feedback from various customers across different review sites for a safer experience .

As with any online travel booking platform, caution is advised when using TravelGo . While some users have reported successful bookings and satisfactory experiences, others have faced significant challenges and frustrations.

Before making a decision, it’s essential to conduct thorough research, read reviews from multiple sources ( Not just this one ), and consider using well-established and reputable travel booking sites to ensure a safe and reliable booking experience.

Remember to prioritize your privacy and security when providing personal information and making payments online. Ultimately, the decision to use TravelGo should be made after careful consideration of all available information and potential risks.

Also Read: Is Weegy.com Legit or a Scam? An In-Depth Weegy Review

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

With free Backcountry Expedition Perks membership, price reflects at checkout

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be (the difference is noticeable), and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon.  In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

by Kit Dillon

A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. But as with all investments, you need to decide if it makes sense for you.

The Best Laptop Backpacks

by Zoe Vanderweide

A great laptop backpack protects your tech, is comfortable to carry, and looks good, too. These five bags are our favorites for wrangling your workday gear.

YonGo Travel Malaysia

Backpack budget adventure exotic travel malaysia.

The Tourist travels to experience enjoyment.  The YONGO Traveler travels to enjoy the experience…

Yong Lee Keng

We specialize in Budget Travel by offering our customers “guided” backpack travel experiences. This means reasonable accommodation, local transport / bus hire and self-catered food or local eateries.  We do different destinations differently with affordable costs in mind

We also cater to travelers who enjoys the travel experience . This include enjoying the outdoors and nature, local markets and eating places, exploring the place on foot and public transport and definitely no “compulsory” shopping stops!

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1) Do you arrange solo traveller to Peru/Lima or join your tour ? 2) Cuba for solo or join your tour ? 3) Brazil, Iguazu Falls, Uruguay and Argentina for solo or join with tour. If possible addf Falklands Island.

I shall be pleased if you can arrange the above countries tours which are in my bucket list. I do not need the air ticket from Kuala Lumpur to Latin America as I will fly from London for the meet up. You were recommended to me by one of your customer. Thank you very much.

from: Irene Loo

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Malaysia Tours & Holidays

Buzzing cities, idyllic islands, exotic ports and lush highlands combine to create magical Malaysia.

Home to a collision of cultures, you can eat roti for breakfast and feast on fragrant curries for dinner; admire mosques in the morning and temples in the afternoon; and visit remote villages as well as towering skyscrapers – it’s all possible in Malaysia.

Our Malaysia trips

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Wild Sarawak

Classic Borneo

Articles of Malaysia

Time travel in Malaysia: Trekking into the distant past in Ulu Muda

Lessons learned on Intrepid’s Sabah Adventure

10 ways to get closer to nature with Intrepid  

6 perfect destinations in South East Asia for solo female travel

Malaysia or Indonesia? Your next Asian adventure awaits…

Everything you need to know before climbing Mt Kinabalu

The top 10 destinations for travel in August 2024

A conversation on conservation: a family adventure in Borneo

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Malaysia at a glance, capital city.

Kuala Lumpur

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(GMT+08:00) Kuala Lumpur, Singapore

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Electricity.

Type G (Irish/British 3-pin)

Learn more about Malaysia

Best time to visit.

The climate in Malaysia is generally hot and humid throughout the year. Temperatures do not fluctuate much and stay in the 30s most of the day, dropping back to the mid to high 20s at night. This makes Malaysia a great place for swimming, snorkelling and relaxing in the sun.

Humidity is higher during the wet season and can be quite oppressive for those not used to it. The wet season changes from coast to coast. From November to April, the wet season hits the east coast of the peninsula and it is dry on the west coast. From May to October it's dry on the east coast and wet on the west.

Some people of Malaysia observe Ramadan. If you are planning to travel during Ramadan, it is important to consider that some restaurants and shops will either be closed or operating at reduced hours during this time.

Learn more about the best time to visit Malaysia

Culture and customs

Malaysia is a modern melting pot – with Chinese, Indian, Malay, Eurasian and indigenous groups making up the population. With this cultural diversity comes a mix of religions, customs, foods and languages. Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Taoism and Hinduism are the main religions practised, although most of the world’s religions are represented somewhere in Malaysia. The Muslim call to prayer, Hindu Festivals and Buddhist ceremonies all coexist with relative peace, with the South-East Asian concept of ‘saving face’ leading most people to strive for harmony.

Regardless of cultural background, elderly people and those of high rank (business people, government officials etc.) are respected greatly. Food plays an important part in daily life, with religious celebrations and holidays characterised by family gatherings and elaborately prepared feasts. Alcohol isn’t a large part of Malaysian society (probably due to the significant Muslim population) but is widely available for purchase and consumption.

Experience Malaysian culture for yourself on our 18day Ultimate Adventure.

Eating and drinking

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food , savouring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. Malaysia’s melting pot of cultural influences is evident in its cuisine.

Things to try in Malaysia

Delicious roti, chicken rice, spicy sambal eggplant and kopi peng (iced coffee).

2. Baba Nonya/Peranaken Cuisine

Fresh spring rolls, babi chin (stewed pork belly) and Mee Siam (rice noodles).

Aromatic curries, cool lassis, delicious daal and sweet fried coconut balls.

Hearty noodle broths, Peking duck pancakes and chrysanthemum tea.

Try some of Malaysia's most famous dishes on our 9day Borneo Family Holiday.

Geography and environment

Balmy beaches, fish-filled reefs, wild jungles, verdant highlands, relaxed ports, colourful cities and simple villages – Malaysia has it all. Sharing land borders with Brunei, Indonesia and Thailand , Malaysia’s environment is as diverse as its population. From the urban cityscape of Kuala Lumpur and the colonial charm of Penang, to the old-world streets of Melaka, a journey through Malaysia will reveal changing landscapes and evolving environments. 

While the large cities are typically built-up, busy and full of buzz, Malaysia’s provincial towns and remote highlands remain delightfully relaxed, with people living simple lives based on agriculture, animal husbandry or other small enterprises. With such a rich range of environments, Malaysia offers beaches and islands for swimming, snorkelling and diving; jungles and highlands for trekking and adventuring; and villages and cities for exploration and relaxation.

Explore this country's breathtaking landscapes on our 8day Highlights of Malaysia tour.

History and government

Early history.

The first recorded historical mentions of Malaysia date back to 7th and 8th-century Sanskrit and Chinese texts. During the following centuries, Malaysia came under the influence and control of Indonesia, Thailand and India – with the accompanying religions, cuisines and languages spreading in the region. In the 16th century, Malaysia came under the influence of Portuguese and Dutch settlers, who increasingly expanded their reach throughout the region to create the Dutch East Indies. Under this influence, Malaysia did well in trade, and flourished as a result of the economic gains of being located on one of the most important trade routes of the time.

Recent history

During the 19th century, the British took control of the Malaysian Peninsula, with the Federated Malay States being officially formed in 1865. Malaysia remained under British rule until Japan invaded during World War II – but once Japan was defeated in 1945, British rule returned and the Federation of Malay was born in 1948. In 1963, the Federation of Malaya formed with Singapore, Sarawak and Sabah to create Malaysia.

Only two years after, Singapore became an independent state, leaving Malaysia in its current form. In the 1970s, Malaysia’s economy grew rapidly until the late 1990s, when the Asian Financial Crisis slowed economic growth in the region. The economy soon recovered, and Malaysia enjoyed the international exposure that came with hosting the 1998 Commonwealth Games (held in Kuala Lumpur). Currently, Malaysian standards of living continue to rise, and Kuala Lumpur has emerged as one of Asia’s premier cities.

Top 10 culinary experiences in Malaysia

1. baba nonya banquet.

The port town of Melaka is known for its unique Baba Nyonya style food. A fusion of Straits Chinese and Malaysian food (with hints of Portuguese, Thai and Indian), chowing down at a Nyonya restaurant is an elaborate affair filled with spicy flavours and tangy sauces.

2. Savour street eats

The streets of Malaysia are filled with locals pushing street carts selling everything from hand-made roti to fresh fruit, delicious satay and steaming bowls of laksa. Malaysian street food offers convenience, variety and flavour on a budget.

3. Taste some tea

Traditional tea is made a little differently in Malaysia. Order ‘teh tarik’ and watch as your condensed-milk tea is frothed and cooled by being poured dramatically between two metal cups, which are held metres apart.

4. Tuck into a hot curry

Beef Rendang is a Malay culinary favourite and is made at home, served at restaurants and prepared for special occasions. This spicy curry is packed with lemongrass, cinnamon, cloves, chilli and melt-in-your-mouth beef — an unforgettable fusion of flavours!

5. Seek out cool city eateries

The hip cafes and bars of Kuala Lumpur are a great place to mix with locals and connect with modern Asian culture. Head to the Jalan Bukit Bintang area in KL and check out the new-age teahouses, cool cafes and international dining options.

6. Down a luscious lassi

With a large Indian population, it’s not hard to find a refreshing Lassi when in Malaysia. Made from yoghurt and fresh fruit, sipping a cool Mango Lassi is the ideal antidote to a humid summer’s day.

7. Relish some rice

Chicken–rice is a favourite with locals and travellers alike. Available at small neighbourhood eateries, night markets and from street carts, this option is a great, low-cost meal for travellers on the go.

8. Slurp a bowl of laksa

Chicken, prawn, tofu and fish; there are many different varieties of spicy laksa to try while in Malaysia. Noodle types and ingredients may vary around the country - a good excuse to try laksa in every town you visit.

9. Chill out with a coconut

Quench your thirst with a fresh coconut juice. Sold at roadside stalls and on beaches, a straw is simply slipped into a stripped back coconut for a refreshing post-swim pick-me-up.

10. Feast on roti

No visit to Malaysia is complete without encountering roti. Walk down any busy street and the sight of people kneading roti dough at street stalls and shop windows will be common. Often served with lentils, potatoes, onions and rice, roti is an excellent option for vegetarians looking for a meat-free meal.

Malaysia has a shopping experience to suit travellers on all budgets. From dazzling, modern malls and exciting night markets to boutique speciality stores, the opportunity to buy something special is never far away.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in Malaysia

1. Kuala Lumpur

The capital’s huge malls offer loads of variety and opportunities to shop. Shoes, bags and accessories are all great buys - from haute couture labels to chic chain-store fashions.

Home to a diverse range of artisans and craftsmen. Browse the markets, galleries and shops to pick up antiques, art and bespoke items. Handcrafted wooden ornaments, leather sandals, vibrant woven bags and antique coins are the best picks.

Boasts an eclectic mix of sleek malls, independent stores, interesting boutiques and open-air street markets. Head to Little India to source Indian-inspired saris, garlands and silver jewellery or stroll along Rope Walk to find one-of-a-kind antiques and treasures.

4. Langkawi

This island has duty-free status, making it a great place to buy fragrances, watches, cameras and other technology. For art lovers, the Craft Cultural Complex showcases locally made fabric, ceramics, baskets and jewellery.

Get shopping on our 20day Best of Borneo small group adventure.

Festivals and events

Kuala Lumpur’s Batu Caves light up in honour of the Hindi deity Subramaniam (also known as Lord Murugan). Pilgrims arrive after sunset and watch as brave individuals thread hooks and skewers through their bodies to carry decorative steel arches to the Gods. This is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before!

Malaysian Grand Prix

For a bit of high-octane fun, see the fastest cars in the world in action at the Malaysian Grand Prix, held near Kuala Lumpur each year.

Ramadan and Eid

Ramadan is observed by the Muslim population of Malaysia. During the ninth and holiest month in the Islamic calendar, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset - refraining from eating and drinking during daylight hours. Eid marks the end of fasting with three days of feasting and celebration.

Further reading

Malaysia travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Malaysia?

Most nationalities do not need a visa to travel to Malaysia for stays less than three months if the trip is for tourism or business purposes. This includes citizens from Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and South Africa.

This page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 6 June 2023

What's the weather like in Malaysia?

Most of   Malaysia   has a tropical climate with hot, humid weather throughout the year. While the country experiences wet and dry seasons, the line between them is blurred and showers can occur at any time of year. The temperatures in Malaysia are steady, with averages of 23°C to 32°C along the coast and lowlands, and a cooler 14°C to 25°C in the highlands. It’s even colder at higher elevations like   Mt Kinabalu in Borneo , which can see sub-zero temperatures at the summit.

Is tipping customary in Malaysia?

Tipping isn’t expected in Malaysia. Some restaurants include a 10% service fee in bills. Feel free to leave a tip at restaurants or with taxi drivers if you’re feeling generous – it will be appreciated.

What is the internet access like in Malaysia?

The internet is easy to access in Malaysia’s large cities, with internet cafes and WiFi hot spots quite common, especially in tourist spots, hotels and hostels. Regional areas and rural communities might have little to no internet access, so be aware of this before heading out of the city.

Can I use my mobile phone while in Malaysia?

Mobile phone coverage is excellent in Malaysia’s large cities; however, it may be patchy in regional areas. Ensure you have global roaming activated on your phone before leaving home.

What to wear in Malaysia

Layering is the key to dressing for Malaysia — specifically long, loose, lightweight clothing as it's culturally respectful and will keep you cool in the tropical climate. A light fabric like linen is great for the heat as it absorbs moisture (read: sweat) and dries quickly. You might want to avoid cotton as it takes ages to dry — not ideal for places like  Borneo  where the humidity can be oppressive! Sportswear is also a good option for hot weather.

What are the toilets like in Malaysia?

Malaysian public toilets are a mix of western-style toilets and squat toilets. Up-market hotels and malls will usually have both options, whereas rural areas will almost certainly only have squat toilets. Be aware that soap and paper aren't always supplied, so be prepared and carry your own.

What will it cost for a…?

• Hawker food snack = 7-25 MYR
• Cup of teh tarik (tea) = 5-12 MYR
• Beer in a bar or pub = 8.50 MYR
• Souvenir t-shirt = 10-35 MYR

Can I drink the water in Malaysia?

It's not recommended to drink the tap water in Malaysia. Filtered water is a better option; try to use a refillable canteen or water bottle rather than buying bottled water. Remember to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Malaysia?

Credit cards are widely accepted by malls, hotels and large restaurants in Malaysia. Smaller guesthouses, shops and cafes may not accept credit cards, so ensure you have enough cash to cover purchases in smaller establishments.

What is ATM access like in Malaysia?

ATMs are easily found in large cities and towns but are far less common in rural and remote areas. Ensure you have enough cash before heading to isolated areas, as ATMs might be sparse.

What public holidays are celebrated in Malaysia?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 22 Jan: Chinese New Year
• 1 Feb: Federal Territory Day
• 21 Apr: Hari Raya Puasa (End of Ramadan)
• 1 May: Labour Day
• 4 May: Wesak Day (Buddha's Birthday)
• 3 Jun: King's Birthday
• 29 Jun: Hari Raya Qurban (Feast of Sacrifice)
• 19 Jul: Awal Muharram (Islamic New Year)
• 31 Aug: Merdeka Day (National Day)
• 12 Nov: Deepavali (Festival of Lights)
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day

Please note, Malaysia public holidays may vary.

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What is it like travelling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or you’re about to embark on your first trip, travelling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organising amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), travelling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilise school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

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Why choose levart.

Unique Itinerary

The tours we designed include grand overland journeys, free & easy backpack tours, thematic tours, and adventure activities.

Responsible Tourism

We promote caring for the environment, respect local cultures, conservation of heritage, connecting with locals on equal ground; be a civilized traveler.

Free & Easy

We are different from conventional travel agency, our tours offer flexibility and stress on learning experiences. Let’s enjoy free spirited journey.

Experienced Traveler

Our team leaders are avid travelers, having visited four corners of the world and open-minded. We enjoy solo-travel and community living too.

Based on our vast travel experiences, we know how to resolve and overcome challenges on the road. We are by your side to provide guidance to ensure a smooth journey.

Travel Buddy

We are team leaders, but we are also your travel buddies. We share the process of enjoyment, learning, and growing together. We are not “nanny”, we are your companion on the road.

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Friendly Reminder

Please don’t rush into signing-up! Alternative travel may be a culture shock for some. The best memories from a journey are often overcoming various challenges with your team mates. Please understand our style of travel before booking.

Contact Info

Tel: +6011-5664 8334 (Admin whatsapp)

Email: [email protected]

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The Best Travel Tips to Know before Traveling to Yangon

Updated on April 26th, 2024

You can explore Yangon with a one, two or three-day itinerary and it's not hard to visit all of the best markets, temples, landmarks and sights to see, along with some of the best food and cafes.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Posted in Myanmar (Burma)

Table of contents

Yangon International Airport

• KBZ Bank and Getting Money in Myanmar
• Chinatown, Yangon
• Downtown Yangon
• Green Gallery Thai Restaurant
• Fu Xiang Yunnan Xiaochidian
• Genki Sushi
• O’2 Nails Bar
• Hong Fa Beauty Salon
• Skyline Bar by Great Garden Bar
• Hotel Esperado Rooftop Bar
• A150 Chinatown Bistro & Bar
• Marketplace at Junction City
• 19th St BBQ Night Market
• Yangon Weekend Book Market
• Danyingon Market
• Bogyoke Market (Scotts Market)
• Maha Bandula Park (Maha Bandula Garden)
• Strand Hotel
• The Secretariat
• Musmeah Yeshua Synagogue (Historic Synagogue of Yangon)
• Sule Pagoda
• Yangon Circle Line Train
• Shwedagon Pagoda
• Mogul Shiah Jamay Mosque
• Peacock Lobby Lounge at the Shangri-La

How to find Yangon accommodation (amenities)

• What to look for in accommodation in Myanmar
• How much time do you need before booking?
• Stay in a hostel in Myanmar
• Stay in a hotel in Myanmar

2024 update: Myanmar is still going through a period of civil unrest, according to the US State Dept. at travel.state.gov. Travelers are asked to “reconsider traveling to Myanmar (Burma) due to armed conflict and the risk of wrongful detention of foreigners. The Travel Advisory for Myanmar (Burma) was renewed on July 24, 2023, as “Level 4: Do Not Travel.” For more information on this topic as well as developments, please visit the US Dept. of State website .

Ready for taking a new trip abroad ? Chaotic, frenetic, flavorful and colorful, Yangon is a place we arrived in and immediately wanted to explore. Luckily, we were jet lagged and at 7 a.m., we were already wide awake and the sun was already out.

With four days in total during our trip during which we could get to know Yangon, Myanmar , we pinpointed places of interest and determined where we wanted to spend our sunsets (cue all those gold pagodas and rooftop bars) with our travel cameras in hand.

We hope you’ll like Yangon, as you get to know its diversity, mix of cultures, street food, gem markets and golden Buddhist temples. Yangon is one of the safest cities to travel in for both first-timers in Southeast Asia and solo travelers alike.

The following list and questions with answers below were developed from both our experience and the recommendations we received from friends and expats who live in Yangon full-time. Enjoy!

Before you go, make sure you research how to get a travel visa and that you&rsqio;ve brought some essentials for visiting temples like durable sandals .

Essential Must-Know Things About Myanmar

If you plan to be traveling in Yangon, check our list of everything to know about travel in Myanmar , to help with things like how to get around, what kind of outlets Myanmar has, money, language and more.

Transit & Essentials in Yangon

To get around Yangon, we nearly exclusively used Grab, although we did try the Circle Train and the public bus (with the help of a local)!

If you fly into Myanmar, you’ll fly into either Yangon or Mandalay, the two main international airports. Yangon International Airport ( airport code RGN) doesn’t have such an impressive arrivals area, but when we came back for departing, we were impressed with the array of upscale shopping before the gates that seems to have been built for the large number of Chinese visitors who now come annually to travel in Myanmar.

Despite the affordable prices of most things in Myanmar like bottled water and snacks, we were surprised to see that everything in the news and snacks store was price in US Dollars and extremely overpriced, even for American airport prices! For this reason, we’re glad we had Priority Pass so that we could hang out in the airport lounge and have drinkable water and snacks as needed.

KBZ Bank and Getting Money in Myanmar

KBZ Bank is all over Yangon and Myanmar, and has ATMs that work in English. See our guide to Myanmar to learn about ATM fees and more about Burmese Kyat, and remember that it can be a smart travel money tip to call your banks before you go.

Best Yangon Neighborhoods to visit

Most points of interest are between Chinatown and Downtown, but to get a full picture of the city, you can expand into People’s Park, Kandawgyi Lake and Inya Lake.

Chinatown, Yangon

We really liked Chinatown, somewhat because of how its falling-apart buildings wit Chinese signs reminded us of taking photos in Hong Kong , and also because its plethora of street life and ‘things you can do on the street’ reminded us of walking around Hanoi .

Chinatown is not completely Chinese, so don’t be fooled — within Chinatown, there are ethnic Burmese people, people of Indian descent and others. A popular landmark is the Kheng Hock Keong Buddhist temple, built in the 1800s by Chinese ethnic clans.

Downtown Yangon

“Downtown” is the area to the east of Chinatown, where you will find most business, along with places of interest we list here. There are many religious, government, architectural, colonial and social institutions here, and walking around is simple because the streets have numbers.

Best restaurants in Yangon (traveler favorites)

You probably know that we focus on health when we travel and typically don’t eat out too much. In Myanmar, we wound up not staying anywhere with a kitchen because most hostels have a cafe instead of kitchen space. For this reason, we ate out for a few meals a day (no regrets, as you can find so much reasonably-priced food!).

Green Gallery Thai Restaurant

This is a delicious little restaurant with only a few tables, located in Downtown. Popular among expats, we were taken here by an expat friend and everyone dining on a weekend evening was an expat. The menu lists traditional Thai food, and mind-blowingly delicious red and green curry for not too steep a price.

Fu Xiang Yunnan Xiaochidian

This is a Chinese restaurant on 19th Street (Lower Block) that is pretty no frills, and not much English is spoken, but they had tomato egg with rice and tomato egg soup, which is why we went in. Prices are rarely higher than 3000 Kyat, which is $2.

Genki Sushi

Genki Sushi is an Asia-wide sushi chain that works much like the car-sushi restaurant we ate at in Taipei. After ordering on a touch-pad, your sushi will arrive at your booth on a wheeling … dog. It’s hard not to keep ordering more and more, and the prices were fine, considering we were in the Junction City mall, not an eatery on the street. Sushi rolls started at around $1 and increased with the type of fish.

Hair and Nail Salons

There are a good number of beauty salons between Chinatown and Downtown, with most salons providing services like threading, massages, nails and haircuts.

O’2 Nails Bar

Looking for a nail salon and getting led astray by Google Maps, I found O’2 in the Junction City Mall. The ladies initially quoted me for a gel manicure and pedicure, but if you ask for “OPI” anywhere, it seems, this will clarify that you want a regular manicure or pedicure. I paid 10,000 Kyat for a simple pedicure.

Hong Fa Beauty Salon

Chinatown has a good number of hairdressers, and this one was recommended to us by our hostel staff because it was one block away from Baobabed Hostel Yangon on Sint Oh Dan Street (Lower Block) near Maha Bandula. Staff did not speak English, but Becca got by with Mandarin Chinese, and the staff smiled when we said ‘thank you’ in Burmese (je-zu-ba). We both got haircuts for 6000 Kyat here.

Best rooftop bars in Yangon

Skyline bar by great garden bar.

This is a rooftop bar that not many seem to know about, despite its excellent location near Chinatown and close to lots of hostels.

Hotel Esperado Rooftop Bar

For a rooftop with a view of the Shwedagon Pagoda (and blocked to the south by the new Wyndham hotel tower) as the sun goes down, check out the top floor of Hotel Esperado near the smaller of the city’s two central lakes. This is a place where you’ll want to use credit for once (yay!), while noting that the menu only quotes drinks in USD (not Kyat). Guess they know their audience.

Best Cafes and Bars in Yangon

Hapa Cafe came recommended to us by a friend who knows the owner. We stopped by, and although the owner was not around, the barista was very friendly. Interestingly enough, Hapa (at the time when we went) was “pay-what-you-want,” so there was no set price for any drink. Very unique!

A150 Chinatown Bistro & Bar

An expat friend invited us here. This bistro and bar is three towering floors in an old building, and note: there either is not much AC or it doesn’t work, because this place was hot. In any case, you can get baijiu (Chinese grain spirit) cocktails here, which is unique, and I didn’t even find this in much of China! The menu is Chinese-themed, with some full meals, but mostly snacks and bites to share.

Best Shopping Malls and Markets in Yangon

Marketplace at junction city.

Junction City is a big indoor shopping mall (a great escape into air conditioning) with a wide range of shopping. You’ll find the grocery store CityMart on one of the upper floors, and there, you can get a range of goods from other parts of Asia, along with some foreign products and Western items. There’s also lots of (clean) fresh produce and household goods like toothpaste, shampoo and cleaning products.

19th St BBQ Night Market

Without having known it when we booked our nights at Baobabed Hostel on 19th St., the Upper Block (north block of the two) turns into a Burmese BBQ (think grilled meat skewers, not hot dogs and burgers) pedestrian market, with restaurants putting tables on the street and lots of Myanmar beer flowing all around.

Even if you don’t want to eat, go check it out for the scene! This is a popular place for both locals and travelers.

Yangon Weekend Book Market

Unbeknownst to us, there was a block-long ‘book market’ in full swing when we visited the Secretariat. You’ll find it on the street with the entrance to the Secretariat block, which is on Theinbyu Road. It’s good to support these booksellers, who are selling books both in Burmese and English at affordable prices.

Danyingon Market

We were brought to this absolutely massive produce and fresh goods market by a local man we met on the Circle Line. We never would have found this market otherwise, and there were 0 other foreigners or visitors who were not Burmese. For this reason, we may have been the attraction! This huge market has a section for vegetables, for spices, for fruit, for fish, for bamboo and for other fresh foods. It seemed endless. Danyingon Market is in rural Yangon off the Danyingon stop or the stop before it (because it’s so big, you can exit the “circle train” at either).

If you want to visit, look for the giant edifice with the silver roofs. Keep in mind you might be the only tourist.

Bogyoke Market (Scotts Market)

We pictured Bogyoke Market being more like a food and home products market, but actually, this market focuses on textiles, clothing, gems and gold jewelry. There are countless shops selling jade, rings, jewels and other types of shiny items, along with vendors selling traditional Burmese clothing and ‘backpacker’ clothing. If you want to come home with souvenirs, this is easily the place at which to do your shopping.

Bargaining is welcomed and you can consider that most prices are meant to be negotiated.

Sightseeing and Places to See

There are so many places in Yangon to see, ranging from religious sites to architectural heritage buildings to gardens. Grab your camera and get ready for awesome diversity in this city.

Maha Bandula Park (Maha Bandula Garden)

This is a city garden with a manicured garden, pathways and trees, and a sizable obelisk monument in the center. This is a place where you’ll see lots of families and couples hanging out and relaxing (despite the heat). We were overheated, so we did not stay long.

Go for a cold brew at Hapa Cafe nearby to cool off after sweating through this sunny garden.

Strand Hotel

We checked out the Strand Hotel on our final day in Yangon, and what a treat it was. This is the very top end of accommodations in Yangon, and it is a beautiful hotel property, part of the Leading Hotels of the World. Not only is it a historic landmark, but it has been revamped in a classic Victorian colonial style. If you’d like to go for a bite, they have a cafe and an upscale bar. The atmosphere is excellent.

The Secretariat

Our expat friend insisted multiple times that we make our way to “The Secretariat” while in Yangon, and while we thought we had already walked past all the landmarks on the Lonely Planet Colonial Architecture walking tour, we had missed this one.

Find other tips like this in a Lonely Planet guide to Myanmar (Burma). Get yours on Amazon or Bookshop.org

The Secretariat is important in Myanmar’s national history because it was the seat of the colonial British empire and was also the place where Aung San and others of the Burmese independence movement were assassinated.

During our time of visiting, much of the Secretariat compound was getting a face-lift and was under construction, but we were able to get into the second floor of the main building to get a view of the rest of the buildings. There is a cafe, if you need a coffee or cool beverage after walking across Downtown to get there.

Musmeah Yeshua Synagogue (Historic Synagogue of Yangon)

A Jewish synagogue? In Myanmar? Yes, it’s true! It’s the only Jewish house of worship left We loved visiting the Musmeah Yeshua Shul/Synagogue, which is a must-see on any walking tour or day out in the Chinatown-Downtown Yangon areas. The synagogue has a fascinating history, tracing back to the Baghdadi Jews, who came to Myanmar and set up a community. It was finished in the late 1800s. Today, Myanmar has about 20 Jews in total, and the synagogue is a landmark for Jews and all visitors to the country who want to see this architectural gem steeped in a fascinating history.

Admission is free, donations are encouraged and visiting times are slightly limited, so try to check in advance!

Sule Pagoda

Sule Pagoda is the downtown golden pagoda that rises from the street and essentially has all traffic built to go around it. This is one of the most accessible historic Buddhist sites in Yangon because of its location smack in the center of the city. We liked getting a view of it from the network of pedestrian bridges that go over the streets, surrounding it. While we did not enter the pagoda (there is a small admission fee and you must be dressed appropriately), we suggest visiting inside, if you are starting your trip and would like to see a temple.

Yangon Circle Line Train

The Yangon Circle Train is worth being part of your visit to Yangon. This somewhat-rickety vintage train (originally from Japan, even with exit instructions still in Japanese) goes in a circular route around the outskirts of the city and taking a ride on it gives you a window (literally!) into the lives of local communities outside the city center.

What we liked most about our trip on this train (one way, from the main city train terminal to Danyingon, the terminal station in the clockwise direction at the time of our visit) was the hustle and bustle of the train passengers as they shuffled on and off, but also that locals wanted to practice English with us and tell us about their city. A ticket costs 200 Kyat, or $0.13.

Keep in mind that the train does not have AC nor working fans (although the cars were built with both, it looked like), so it is rather warm during the entire ride (OK, it was steamy), and we suggest bringing enough water to get you through the trip, but not so much that you’ll need to use the bathrooms on board (we didn’t see any — only heard that there were some — and had no interest in finding them).

Shwedagon Pagoda

Shwedagon Pagoda is the postcard scene of Yangon. This is where you will feel like everything is dipped in gold and it’s hard to take a bad photo. We found these pagoda grounds to be some of the most unique scenes we’ve ever laid eyes on, as the massive golden stupa rises from the ground and reaches toward the sky. Surrounding the central stupa are pagodas and temples, where locals come to pray.

What to bring: Wear sandals that slip off, and bring a sarong or shawl (women travelers) to cover shoulders. If you’re a guy, come wearing any travel pants or bring a longyi, which you can easily buy in the city, if you don’t want to pay to rent one.

If you are interested in Buddhism, this is a great place to take a guided tour for not too steep a price. There are upright Buddhas, reclining Buddhas and more.

There is admission for foreigners is 10,000 Kyat ($6.50, at 1530 Kyat to a USD in October 2019). The admission is not the same for Burmese nationals, as they come to the pagoda as a religious trip or daily event.

Did you know? The gold and gems at Shwedagon Pagoda are worth $3 billion.

Go at sunrise or at sunset, and if you go at sunset, stay past dark, when the giant stupa is lit up.

Mogul Shiah Jamay Mosque

This beautiful white mosque is free of charge and is located only a few blocks from the synagogue and other temples of interest. For entrance, there is a very clear sign that the dress code demands no spaghetti strap blouses, pants or skirts above the knee or shoulders left uncovered. Taking photos is fine, but please be respectful of anyone engaging in prayer.

Peacock Lobby Lounge at the Shangri-La

If you need a break and you’re in the Sule Paya area, check out the five-star Shangri-La Hotel, where the lobby is a nice place to relax and enjoy some AC. There is also some upscale shopping, and a connection to a fancy shopping mall on the same block.

How to pick the perfect accommodation in Yangon (location)

It’s important to decide where to stay during a Myanmar trip. Staying in Yangon is pretty simple because most hotels, guesthouses and hostels are all within Chinatown and Downtown, which are safe, accessible and straightforward because the streets are in a numbered grid. If you’re traveling solo , a hostel is great for meeting other travelers.

To find accommodation in Yangon, we suggest using Hostelworld for hostels and Booking.com for hotels.

What to look for in accommodation in Myanmar

We found it helpful to filter by rooms that had air conditioning, breakfast included, free WiFi, a 24-hour reception desk (we arrived at midnight for our flight in) and a location close to what seemed like places of interest.

While we stayed at the Baobabed hostel chain during our entire trip (Baobabed has hostels in Yangon, Bagan and Inle Lake), we did hear that Ostello Bello Hostel is an awesome place to stay in both Bagan and Inle Lake.

How much time do you need before booking?

Travel in Myanmar changes year by year. Our friends who went in 2013-2014 had the issue of a shortage of hotels, higher prices and the need to book terribly far in advance. Things have changed in favor of the traveler by now, and to our advantage, there is a wide range and great amount of places to stay, more competition in prices and less need to book far in advance.

We booked our hostels one month out before our trip would begin, and this was because we wanted to secure private rooms at hostels. It’s a good thing we did, because we stayed at (in our opinion) the best hostel in Yangon and scored one of only two private rooms in the whole property. If you travel in low season and you’re looking for a standard room in a hotel or a dorm bed, these two types are much easier to come by and you could probably book between one day and one week in advance and find something.

We did not visit Myanmar in high season, as we like to travel in low season to save money , so we cannot speak to diminishing availability of places to stay. To be safe, we’d suggest booking as far out as you can, and getting cancellation protection.

Should you stay in a hotel or a hostel?

Staying in a hotel or a hostel is entirely up to you. Having stayed in both hotels and hostels for many years, we’ve chosen our happy medium, which is a private room (usually with private bath) in a hostel.

Stay in a hostel in Myanmar

This way, we get to experience the community, social aspects and fun events that hostels put on, and we also have privacy, peace and quiet and have complete control over the noise level and security in our own room. You can read more on our opinion about hostels !

Stay in a hotel in Myanmar

If a hostel is not for you, stay in a hotel! There are so many to choose from, from top-end like the Strand Hotel and Shangri-La (both in the $200-350 per night range) to local hotels that you can book in most of the country for $20-40 a room. Keep in mind that you will get what you pay for, so expect amenities to be less on a shoestring budget.

Best Backpacker Hostel in Yangon, Baobabed Hostel Review

We liked Baobabed Hostel Yangon a lot, with the Yangon location as our favorite of the three. The Yangon location is a historic house-turned-hostel, with narrow wooden staircases and some architectural charm.

The top floor is the two private rooms, which each are located at the top of their own narrow staircases. Both private rooms share the (very big) communal bathroom on the third floor, which has a good number of showers and bathrooms. We found it to never be full.

The other floors have dorms and more bathrooms, and the second floor has a ‘chill room,’ which has bean bag chairs and a small library of travel and multi-language books. You can hang out here after your check out and before your night bus or flight, or if you arrive on an early flight or bus and have to wait until your room is ready.

At 4 pm every day, the staff offers a traditional Yangon snack for anyone who wants to try! There is also a cafe with a brief menu of lunch and dinner foods, a bar for happy hour drinks and the lobby, which functions as a social space and also the breakfast room. It’s here that friendly staff will help you plan your day, help you book a night bus or a trek and might even teach you some phrases in Burmese.

How to prepare for a Southeast Asia Trip

Ready to jet? Don’t forget to bookmark our minimalist packing guide and this checklist of ways to travel with your partner .

Moving onward in Myanmar? See the best things to do in Inle Lake and tips for travel in Bagan .

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Step-by-Step Guide to Visiting Yangon: A 2-day Yangon Itinerary

Immerse yourself in a city adorned with shimmering golden pagodas, rich colonial architecture, and delectable Burmese cuisine with this meticulously crafted 2-day Yangon itinerary. This guide will unveil a treasure trove of cultural experiences and breathtaking sights for your exploration.

As the former capital and largest city of Myanmar, Yangon, formerly known as Rangoon, offers a plethora of attractions to discover within a short timeframe. Unveil the city’s wonders through a concise 2-day itinerary designed to optimize your visit and help you make the most of your time.

From tranquil lakeside strolls to vibrant artistic alleys and top-notch accommodations, this comprehensive Yangon travel guide offers a detailed itinerary and curated recommendations for the best activities to partake in during your 2-day adventure in Yangon.

Yangon, the bustling financial center and the largest metropolis in Myanmar (formerly Burma), offers travelers an opportunity to manage their expenses effectively with a daily budget ranging from 35 to 50 USD.

This allocation typically covers accommodation, transportation, and even dining expenses, making it a budget-friendly destination.

With a population exceeding six million, Yangon grapples with significant traffic congestion, as vehicles inundate roads originally designed for bicycles and livestock.

Despite ongoing investments, the city’s infrastructure struggles to keep up with its rapid growth.

Downtown areas are often cluttered with carts, motorcycles, and street vendors encroaching on pavements, forcing pedestrians onto roadways.

Upon your airport arrival, you’ll notice the distinctive attire worn by many local men, featuring the lungi, a traditional sarong paired with a Western shirt, offering a cool and comfortable option in Myanmar’s warm climate.

Women commonly apply thanaka, a yellow or white powder derived from wood bark, for cosmetic and sun protection reasons, adding to the unique cultural experience.

Useful Info for Spending 2 Days in Yangon

Most international visitors planning a trip to Yangon will land at Yangon International Airport (RGN) in Mingaladon, situated approximately 14 kilometers from the Downtown area.

Direct flights connect Yangon to major cities across Southeast Asia, making it easily accessible.

During my journey from Bali to Yangon, I capitalized on a layover to explore this captivating city.

Myanmar boasts an extensive rail network, allowing travelers to reach Yangon by train from destinations such as Mandalay or Bagan.

Long-distance buses also connect various towns, although these can be crowded and lack air conditioning.

For a hassle-free journey to the downtown area, utilizing the Grab app to book a taxi for around 8000 MMK is recommended.

Access free airport Wi-Fi to facilitate this service. Conventional taxis tend to be pricier, with fares around 12000 MMK to reach the Sule Pagoda region.

Negotiating a better rate based on demand and timing is common practice.

For budget-conscious travelers, the most economical transportation option to and from Yangon Airport is the Air-Con bus, priced at a mere 500 MMK, equivalent to less than 1 USD.

With services available round-the-clock, this bus route presents an affordable and efficient mode of transport.

The journey to Sule Square typically takes around 40 minutes without heavy traffic, with buses departing every 20-30 minutes.

How To Get Around Yangon

Unlike many Southeast Asian cities, Yangon prohibits motorbikes, ruling out the possibility of renting a scooter or hitching a ride.

To traverse the city efficiently during your visit, rely on walking, utilizing Grab taxis, and occasionally taking bus rides.

My carefully crafted 2-day Yangon itinerary emphasizes walking wherever feasible, complemented by Grab taxi services when needed.

This rideshare platform eliminates the hassle of haggling, ensuring affordable fares that seldom exceed a few dollars per trip.

To simplify transportation and enhance your mobility, consider purchasing a Burmese SIM card upon your arrival, either at the airport or in the downtown area.

While Yangon boasts a commendable public bus network ideal for budget-conscious travelers, bear in mind that bus travel can be time-consuming, potentially impacting your itinerary.

Nonetheless, I have incorporated bus routes into the itinerary whenever applicable to offer a money-saving transportation alternative.

Additionally, Yangon features its own inner-city rail system, which I will delve into further on the second day of your Yangon exploration.

This rail network adds another dimension to your travel experience in this dynamic city.

Prior to boarding, it is essential to negotiate the fare with the driver for your intended destination.

Understandably, as a foreigner, you may end up paying more than locals do.

Nevertheless, expenses in the country are generally affordable, and taxi drivers rely on these fares for their livelihood.

Regardless of your destination within the city, taxi fares typically range between 5000 MMK to 6000 MMK. Fortunately, many taxi drivers in Yangon possess basic English-speaking skills, facilitating easier communication with.

Language and Currency in Yangon

The primary language spoken in Yangon is Burmese, which utilizes its own script, posing a challenge for Westerners to interpret.

Although English serves as a secondary language in certain educational institutions, it is not widely prevalent in everyday interactions on the streets, except in hotels and prominent establishments.

English signage can be spotted on road names and railway signs, reflecting remnants of the British colonial era.

British rule in Burma spanned from 1824 until 1948, a historical period that can be explored through works like George Orwell’s “Burmese Days.”

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The official currency in Myanmar is the kyat, available in ten denominations ranging from 5 to 10,000.

As of the latest update, 1,000 kyat equates to approximately US $0.50.

Obtaining Myanmar currency abroad can be challenging, so it is advisable to carry US dollars for exchange purposes.

When making purchases, locals may decline very old or damaged notes, underscoring the importance of having newer bills for trade.

Best Time to Visit Yangon

While you can technically follow this 2-day Yangon itinerary at any time of the year, it’s crucial to consider the broader Myanmar trip if you plan to engage in activities like hot air balloon rides over Bagan or trekking in remote areas.

These activities are season-dependent and may have specific timeframes.

Myanmar’s dry season spans from November to February, offering optimal conditions for exploration.

This period is ideal for activities like trekking, temple visits, and experiencing the iconic hot air balloon rides.

Days are warm, around 30°C (86°F), with cooler evenings.

In contrast, temperatures soar to around 40°C (104°F) from March to May, posing discomfort for some travelers.

As the wet season transitions in June and lasts until October, temperatures drop to a more tolerable 30°C (86°F).

While you can still enjoy your Yangon itinerary during this time with appropriate rain gear, the rain may impact your broader travel plans.

Hence, it’s essential to pack accordingly and plan your activities considering the weather conditions prevalent during your visit.

2 Days in Yangon. Top Things to Do in Yangon

Considering a 2-day visit to Yangon? Excellent choice! Two days in Yangon provide an ideal timeframe to explore key tourist attractions and immerse yourself in the city’s essence.

While longer stays offer deeper insights, a 48-hour stint in Yangon allows you to delve into its offerings.

I will provide a comprehensive guide, highlighting recommended activities, dining options, insights into Burmese culture and history, and suggestions for accommodations in Yangon.

This curated information aims to optimize your experience during your brief yet enriching visit to this vibrant city.

Overview of Your 2-Day Yangon Itinerary

Now equipped with a fundamental grasp of the city, let’s dive straight into my curated guide outlining the top activities for your 2-day exploration of Yangon.

Below, you’ll discover a breakdown of your itinerary:

Begin your day by visiting iconic sites like the Shwedagon Pagoda and Maha Wizaya Pagoda. Immerse yourself in history at the National Museum, ride the Yangon Circular Train, and explore spiritual landmarks such as Chauk Htat Kyi Pagoda and the serene Kandawgyi Lake.

Choose between two options:

Option A : Pay Bogyoke Aung San Market a visit, offering glimpses of local life.

Option B : Explore Swe Taw Myat Pagoda and Thiri Mingala Kabar Aye Pagoda. Enjoy the tranquility of Kandawgyi Lake, stroll through Pansodan Street, marvel at YGN Walls, shop at Bogyoke Aung San Market, visit Sule Pagoda, and conclude your day at The Strand Night Market.

This comprehensive itinerary is designed to ensure you make the most of your 2-day adventure in Yangon, providing a perfect blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and local experiences to enrich your visit to this dynamic city.

Day 1 of Your 2 Days in Yangon Itinerary

Downtown yangon.

Upon arriving in Yangon, check in at your accommodation, settle in, and set out to explore the city.

Commence your first day with a visit to the exquisite Sule Pagoda, a key landmark in downtown Yangon.

Towering at 44 meters, this captivating pagoda holds a central spot in Yangon’s core, making it a central point for navigating the city.

As you delve into downtown Yangon, consider opting for one of the free walking tours available for a guided exploration.

Tips For Planning a Trip to Shenzhen

Alternatively, if self-guided exploration is your preference, be sure to admire the historic Railway Station, marvel at the British Colonial architecture lining Strand Road, and make time to visit the esteemed Pansodan Gallery.

These experiences offer a glimpse into the rich history and architectural beauty that defines this bustling metropolis.

Explore Chinatown

Renowned for its delectable street food scene, Yangon beckons food enthusiasts to its vibrant Chinatown, a hub of culinary delights at affordable prices.

Situated west of the Sule Pagoda, Chinatown bustles with activity at dawn. It attracts crowds of locals and tourists to its narrow alleys where food vendors showcase their freshly prepared dishes.

Embrace the flavors of Chinatown to embark on a gastronomic adventure!

As the historic district of the city, Chinatown pulsates with Yangon’s lively nightlife.

Many travelers opt to lodge in this dynamic area, making it an ideal spot for a weekend getaway in Yangon.

Discover a plethora of clubs, bars, and eateries scattered across this expansive locale.

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For a drink, head to the popular backpacker haunt, Kosan bar.

Chinese locals gravitate towards Emperor KTV in City Central Plaza, while expats favor 50th Street Café and Union for a laid-back experience amidst the city’s nightlife buzz.

Explore the diverse offerings in Chinatown to savor the essence of Yangon’s culinary and entertainment scene.

Shwedagon Pagoda

A must-visit on your 2-day Yangon itinerary, the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda stands as the city’s most iconic and holiest monument, embodying Myanmar’s spiritual essence.

Perched atop Singuttara Hill, this gilded stupa soars to 99 meters (325 feet) and resides in an expansive complex adorned with various stupas, shrines, and Buddha statues.

Dating back to the 14th century, the pagoda houses revered relics like the staff of Kakusandha, the water filter of Koṇāgamana, and eight strands of Gautama’s hair.

For an enchanting experience, aim to arrive early at the pagoda, which opens at 4 am, to witness the ethereal morning light and witness the site come alive.

Although bustling at sunrise with local worshippers, tourists typically trickle in later in the day.

While you can explore independently, local guides at the complex often offer tours.

Opting for a guide supports local tourism, but ensure they are official and agree on the price beforehand.

For a seamless experience, instruct your Grab driver to drop you at the south entrance or the north entrance to marvel at the architectural splendor.

Dress respectfully with covered knees and shoulders. Remember that shoes are prohibited within the complex; stow them in your bag or use the designated shoe rack for convenience.

Yangon Circular Train

Conclude your first day in Yangon with a mesmerizing journey aboard the Yangon Circular Train.

For an affordable fare of approximately 200 MMK (0.10 USD), immerse yourself in the local culture, witness vendors selling fruits and vegetables onboard, and absorb the vibrant atmosphere of the bustling local markets.

Operating from the Central Railway Station, this leisurely train ride traverses the city over a two-and-a-half-hour route, providing a unique perspective of local life and the city’s expansiveness.

While the journey fascinated me, I couldn’t help but notice the lack of proper waste management along the tracks, reflecting on broader environmental concerns.

The next day, ferrying across the Yangon River, I encountered further environmental dismay.

Each ticket grants a single journey, requiring a new ticket for reboarding.

The circular train operates in both clockwise and anti-clockwise directions, completing a full circuit in about three hours.

Feel free to disembark earlier and utilize a Grab ride to reach your next destination promptly.

Day 2 of Your 2 Days in Yangon Itinerary

Begin your second day in Yangon by enjoying breakfast at Rangoon Tea House, known for its array of local delicacies including hearty beef curry, curries, and tea-leaf salads.

Despite catering primarily to expats and tourists, this eatery provides a welcome retreat from the eclectic mix of scents permeating Yangon.

Bogyoke Aung San Market

Exploring local markets holds a special place in my heart, particularly when journeying through Southeast Asia.

Bogyoke Aung San Market, formerly known as Scott’s Market, presents a splendid opportunity to delve deeper into Myanmar’s rich culture.

Within its confines, you’ll encounter a diverse array of offerings—from traditional longyi to handbags, souvenirs, apparel, and culinary delights.

With its well-organized layout, navigating this market is a breeze.

During my visit in the early morning, as some vendors were setting up shop, I relished the tranquility of the environment.

Morning hours prove ideal for market exploration, allowing for a more serene experience.

Venture off the main thoroughfare and explore the upper levels for better deals and a unique perspective.

Engage in the art of bargaining; stallholders may mark up prices for tourists, so negotiating is key to securing reasonable prices.

Each visit to Bogyoke Aung San Market unfolds as an adventure, promising new discoveries every time.

Operating from Tuesday to Sunday, the market is accessible from 9 am to 5.30 pm, inviting you to immerse yourself in Yangon’s vibrant primary bazaar experience.

Visiting this colorful market is one of the best things to do in Yangon in 2 days.

Swe Taw Myat Pagoda

Should exploring markets not pique your interest, consider heading directly to one of Yangon’s revered sanctuaries—Swe Taw Myay Pagoda.

This immaculate and strikingly symmetrical pagoda houses a precious tooth relic of Buddha, transported to Myanmar from China in 1994.

Designed to mirror the Ananda Pagoda in Bagan, a future stop on your Myanmar journey, this site offers a glimpse into the country’s rich spiritual heritage.

Operating daily from 5 am to 8 pm, admission to Swe Taw Myay Pagoda costs 3,000 MMK (approximately $1.80).

As customary, maintain modest attire and anticipate shoe removal upon entering the complex.

For a blend of both options, you can opt to ride the Yangon Circular Train to Tadalay Station and proceed on foot to the pagoda.

Alternatively, given the temple’s distance from downtown, consider securing a Grab ride for a more convenient journey.

Sule Pagoda

Retrace your steps to embark on a visit to your last pagoda in Yangon—the historic Sule Pagoda.

Erected approximately 2,300 years ago, this site features a majestic 48-meter (157 feet) tall stupa that enshrines a strand of Buddha’s hair.

The Sule Pagoda exudes a mesmerizing allure against the backdrop of the night sky, making it an ideal spot for an evening visit.

While it’s tempting to include it on your way to the market, I suggest savoring its beauty at dusk for an enhanced experience.

Access to the Sule Pagoda requires an admission fee of 5,000 MMK (around $3), and it welcomes visitors daily from 4 am to 10 pm, ensuring ample opportunity to explore its historical and spiritual grandeur.

Kandawgyi Lake

On my final day in Yangon, just before departing for the airport by night bus, I embarked on a leisurely stroll through the serene Kandawgyi Park. It is situated next to Kaung Lay Inn, a short distance from Tamwe Ah Waing bus stop.

This tranquil park serves as a serene refuge from the city’s hustle and bustle, offering a picturesque view of the distant Shwedagon Pagoda. A romantic spot for couples in Yangon.

Kandawgyi Lake proves to be an idyllic setting for catching a stunning Yangon sunrise or sunset.

Witness locals engaging in Tai Chi practices as you admire the striking Karaweik Hall, an ornately designed boat hosting two magnificent golden birds atop its elaborate roof.

At the lake’s eastern edge lies the grandiose floating restaurant, Karaweik Palace, where you can relish a traditional Shan buffet and enjoy captivating cultural dance performances.

Secure a spot nearby to marvel at the sunset and capture enchanting photographs.

Where to Eat in Yangon

Downtown Yangon boasts numerous upscale restaurants catering to tourists and local expatriates, while hotels typically offer satisfactory dining options.

Affordable street food and locally grown fruits are abundantly available.

With a brewery located in the Mindalagon district, ‘Myanmar Beer’ is a ubiquitous and delightful choice.

It’s advisable to stick to bottled water for your beverages.

Myanmar’s cuisine reflects a rich blend of influences from neighboring countries, resulting in a diverse and adventurous local food scene.

Mohinga, a traditional dish comprising rice noodles in fish and bean broth, offers a mild curry-like flavor and can be found across the city—highly recommended for a taste of local cuisine.

Embrace the Burmese tea leaf salad, a staple and a personal favorite, known for its unique flavors. Given the variability in street stall hygiene, opt for crowded places with high food turnover to ensure freshness and quality.

As a vital city in a developing country, Yangon has only recently opened its doors to tourists.

Due to Myanmar’s transition from a military regime, locals may exhibit caution towards Westerners. An understandable sentiment considering the nation’s history.

Exercise cultural sensitivity and respect during your visit to fully appreciate the local hospitality and traditions.

Where to Stay in Yangon

Luxury Hotels

Belmond Governor’s Residence Savoy Hotel Yangon The Strand, Yangon Sule Shangri-La Yangon

Mid-Range Hotels

Mango Hill Inn Loft Hotel 15th street @ Downtown Yangon Merchant Art Boutique Hotel Esperado Lakeview Hotel City Star Hotel

Four Rivers Youth Hostel Pickled Tea (my favorite) Hostel9 Backpacker(Bed & Breakfast) The SAT Yangon

In Yangon, you will see things that you can see nowhere else, and this fact alone makes it an exciting destination. Love what you’ve just read or my travel blog? Come visit my Facebook and Twitter to say HI and discuss your experience in Yangon. I’d also love to hear your thoughts below

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Naijatechweb

Your blog is really nice! I like the layout and how easy it is to navigate 🙂

MindTheTravel

Thank you, Kristenne!

Myanmar has been long on my bucket list – thank’s for sharing this. Great tips. Can’t wait to plan the trip. I also like the images a lot.

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Introduction to HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance

• Plans Available
• How to Purchase and Manage Your Policy

HTH Worldwide Customer Service and Support Experience

Compare hth worldwide travel insurance.

• Why You Should Trust Us

HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance Review 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

No one likes to think about what could go wrong on vacation, but the truth is that anything can happen. That's why travel insurance is so important — it can help you recover from any unexpected emergencies that may occur while you're away from home.

If you're looking for a reputable travel insurance company, HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance is a great option. It's been in business for over 20 years and offers three different travel insurance plans. Whether you need basic coverage or more comprehensive protection, HTH Worldwide likely has a plan that will suit your needs.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Reasonable premiums
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. CFAR coverage available with some plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High medical emergency and evacuation coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Special coverages for pets, sports equipment, etc not available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited reviews with complaints about claims not being paid
• Trip cancellation of up to $5,000 with the Economy plan and up to $50,000 with the Preferred plan
• Cancel for any reason insurance and missed connection insurance available with the Preferred plan
• Baggage delay insurance starting after 24 or 12 hours depending on the plan

HTH Worldwide is a travel insurance company owned and operated by Worldwide Insurance Services, which also operates GeoBlue Travel Insurance . In fact, many of the policies listed on HTH Worldwide's website are actually provided by GeoBlue, specifically its travel medical insurance . While we'll talk about those policies here, you can find more details in our GeoBlue review . 

HTH Worldwide's stand-alone products are its TripProtector trip cancellation policies. These offer comprehensive protection with relatively low premiums compared to many of its competitors. In fact, HTH Worldwide is among the companies included in our picks for the best cheap travel insurance . 

That said, with the premiums you're paying, you'll encounter some concessions. For one, HTH Worldwide's coverage limits are far below that of many of the best travel insurance companies, particularly when it comes to trip cancellation limits, which start at $5,000 per person for its Economy plan. 

Types of Policies Offered by HTH Worldwide

HTH Worldwide offers three primary plans: TripProtector Economy, Classic, and Preferred. Each plan has different coverage levels and features, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs. But they'll all cover (up to a specified amount) things like trip cancellation and interruption, emergency medical expenses, lost or delayed luggage, and more.

One important note, though, is that the TripProtector Economy plan is not available for trips where the per-person cost is greater than $5,000.

Below you'll find the per-person coverage limits of HTH Worldwide's three travel insurance plans:

These policies also include 24-hour emergency hotline service, an online database to search for doctors while you're traveling, a medical term translation database, and health and security news alerts.

Additional Coverage Options from HTH Worldwide

In addition to the three primary plans, HTH Worldwide also offers the following two plans, through GeoBlue, for travelers only looking for travel medical coverage:

• Single-trip option for travelers with primary health insurance:  HTH Worldwide provides a short-term international medical plan for those who have other travel insurance but need travel medical coverage. It covers pre-existing conditions and medical evacuation costs, with maximum benefit amounts ranging from $50,000 to $1 million and deductibles from $0 to $500.
• Single-trip option for travelers without primary health insurance:  This plan for travelers who don't have primary health insurance has maximum benefit amounts ranging from $50,000 to $1 million and deductibles ranging from $0 to $500. It covers pre-existing conditions for medical evacuation.
• Multi-trip option:  This annual travel insurance plan is for people who are taking multiple sub-70-day trips within a 12-month period.

The following two plans listed on HTH Worldwide's website, also supplied by GeoBlue, are designed for people who live or work outside their home country:

• Xplorer plan: This plan is for individuals and families who intend to be outside their home country for more than three months per year.
• Navigator plan: This plan is specifically for students, faculty, mission, and maritime crews who will be outside of their home country for more than three months during the year.

Like other travel insurance providers, HTH Worldwide offers additional coverages that can be purchased along with the primary policy. These add-ons are only available for a Preferred plan, not an Economy or Classic plan.

The add-ons include:

• Cancel for any reason (CFAR): Will pay 75% of any prepaid trip expenses. You must purchase coverage within 21 days of your first trip deposit, and the trip must be canceled at least two days before your scheduled departure. This add-on is only available for TripProtector Preferred.
• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW):  Coverage for your rental car in the event of damage due to crash, theft, vandalism, windstorm, fire, hail, flood, or any cause beyond your control. (Not available in NY, OR, or TX.)

HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance Cost

The premium you pay will depend on various factors, including the age of the travelers, destination, and total trip costs. The  average cost of travel insurance  is 4% to 8% of your travel costs.

After inputting some personal information, such as your age and state of residence, along with your trip details, like travel dates, destination, and trip costs, you'll get an instant quote for HTH Worldwide plans available for your trip. And from there, it's easy to compare each option based on your coverage needs and budget.

Now let's look at a few examples to estimate HTH Worldwide coverage costs.

As of 2024, a 23-year-old from Illinois taking a week-long, $3,000 budget trip to Italy would have the following travel insurance quotes:

• TripProtector Economy: $93.16
• TripProtector Classic: $115.56
• TripProtector Preferred: $156.20

Premiums for HTH Worldwide plans are between 3.1% and 5.2% of the trip's cost, well within the average cost of travel insurance.

HTH Worldwide provides the following quotes for a 30-year-old traveler from California heading to Japan for two weeks on a $4,000 trip:

• TripProtector Economy: $121.41
• TripProtector Classic: $149.43
• TripProtector Preferred: $200.75

Once again, premiums for HTH Worldwide plans are between 3% and 5% of the trip's cost, within and below the expected range of travel insurance costs.

A Texas family consisting of two 40-year-old parents with a 10-year-old and 4-year-old on a two-week trip to Australia for $20,000:

• TripProtector Economy: $610.74
• TripProtector Classic: $743.15
• TripProtector Preferred: $995.04

HTH Worldwide plans cost between 3% and 5% of the trip's cost, below and within the average cost of travel insurance. 

A 65-year-old couple looking to escape New Jersey for Mexico for two weeks with a trip cost of $6,000 would have the following quotes:

• TripProtector Economy: $324.95
• TripProtector Classic: $389.12
• TripProtector Preferred: $474.12

Premiums for HTH Worldwide plans for older-age travelers are between 5.4% and 7.9%, which is well within the average cost for travel insurance. While it's certainly more expensive than coverage for younger travelers, it's on the lower end of what travel insurance companies often quote for older travelers. 

How to Purchase and Manage a HTH Worldwide Policy

It's fast and simple to get a quote from HTH Worldwide. Visit its website and provide basic information about your trip. You'll receive an immediate quotation for the insurance plans available for your journey, so it's simple to compare each one. Make sure you have all of the following information on hand:

• Primary destination
• Age of traveler(s)
• Total trip cost
• Travel dates
• State of residence

If you're buying a trip cancellation policy, you'll be directed to the HTH Worldwide quote page, where you can choose one of three plans. If you're within the specified purchasing window, you'll also be able to add cancel for any reason coverage to the Preferred plan. 

How to File a Claim with HTH Worldwide

For medical claims, you can contact HTH Worldwide by phone at 888-243-2358 or via email at [email protected]. For all other claims, you can call 866-655-3058.

You must notify HTH Worldwide of your claim within seven days of first experiencing the covered loss. You'll also need to provide proof of loss within 90 days after the loss. The company doesn't provide an expected window for response or payment in its terms, but said that a claim usually takes anywhere from 30-45 days to process in response to a review on SquareMouth.

You can find HTH Worldwide's claim forms here .

HTH Worldwide has relatively few customer reviews to speak of. It has an average of 4.24 stars out of five across just under 500 reviews on its SquareMouth page, which comprises the vast majority of online reviews. HTH Worldwide customer reviews were very complimentary about the purchasing experience, saying it was quick.

That said, customers also mentioned that HTH Worldwide is hard to reach for anything — purchasing, traveling, and claims. This can be especially concerning if you're trying to contact the 24/7 hotline while facing an emergency. That said, when customers were able to make contact, they had generally positive things to say about the experience.

One customer getting treated for a medical emergency was given a list of recommended hospitals in their area and HTH Worldwide's connection with GeoBlue meant that some hospitals were able to direct bill instead of the customer paying and getting reimbursed. This created some hoops the customer had to jump through, including obtaining a letter from HTH Worldwide. That said, the customer writes, "The whole thing took less than 30 minutes. With that letter in tow, I was able to be seen, treated and released without payment on my part."

Learn more about HTH Worldwide compares to some of the best travel insurance providers .

HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance vs. Allianz Travel Insurance

If you look at coverage with Allianz Travel Insurance , you'll see that you can select from 10 different insurance plans. Much like HTH Worldwide, Allianz Travel Insurance offers single-trip policies and options for those who plan to be outside the country for longer. And, like with all insurance, the different plans provide varying degrees of coverage.

Allianz Travel Insurance's most popular single-trip option is the OneTrip Prime plan, which offers:

• Trip cancellation coverage up to $100,000
• Trip interruption coverage up to $150,000
• Emergency medical coverage for $50,000
• Coverage for baggage loss, theft or damage up to $1,000
• Travel delay coverage up to $800

Compare that to HTH Worldwide's most popular TripProtector Preferred Plan and you'll see that HTH Worldwide's emergency medical coverage limit is substantially higher. But Allianz Travel Insurance's plan has better trip protection coverage limits. The right choice will depend on what coverages are most important to you and your personal situation.

Read our Allianz Travel Insurance review here.

HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance vs. Nationwide Travel Insurance

Amongst insurance providers, Nationwide Travel Insurance is one of the more familiar household names. Much like HTH Worldwide, Nationwide offers straightforward coverage with only two single-trip plans: the Essential Plan and the Prime Plan. Furthermore, Nationwide has designed policies specifically for those taking cruises or who travel frequently throughout the year.

To compare Nationwide and HTH Worldwide, we took a look at both companies' highest-tier plans.

Nationwide's Prime Plan includes coverage for trip cancellation up to $30,000, trip interruption coverage of 200% of the cost of the trip (with a maximum payout of $60,000), missed connection and itinerary change coverage each amounting to $500, per-day trip delay coverage of up to $250 for 6+ hour delays, and emergency medical evacuation with a limit of $1 million in payouts.

In comparison, HTH Worldwide's TripProtector Preferred plan offers trip cancellation coverage up to $50,000, trip interruption coverage 200% of the cost of the trip, coverage for a missed connection of up to $1,000, trip delay coverage up to $2,000, and emergency medical evacuation coverage of up to $1 million.

The two plans are quite similar in many regards. To determine which is best for you, you'll need to compare quotes based on your personal and trip-specific details.

Read our Nationwide Travel Insurance review here.

Compare HTH Worldwide vs. Credit Card Insurance

It's worthwhile to review the insurance coverage offered by your travel credit cards before you buy a separate travel insurance policy. Some essential coverages, like rental car insurance, might already be included with a card you have.

The coverage from your credit card may be enough if, for example, you don't have any non-refundable trip expenses and you're driving to your destination. Another scenario that could suffice is if your health insurance covers you while abroad, you're in decent health, and you aren't too concerned with potential medical costs while traveling.

It's essential to remember that credit card travel protection is usually secondary to the primary coverage you'd get with a travel insurance policy. This means you'll have to file a claim with the other applicable insurance before filing a claim with your credit card company.

Read our guide on the best credit cards with travel insurance here.

HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance FAQs

HTH Worldwide is known for its strong focus on medical coverage, providing comprehensive support during medical emergencies, including access to a wide network of hospitals and emergency medical assistance.

Yes, HTH Worldwide offers plans that cover travel to high-risk destinations, but it's important to review the specific terms and coverage limitations for such areas.

Pre-existing conditions are covered under HTH Worldwide's Classic and Preferred plans as long as you purchase your policy within 14 and 21 days of your initial trip deposit, respectively. HTH Worldwide TripProtector Economy does not cover pre-existing conditions. 

HTH Worldwidepolicies max out at 90 days. If your trip exceeds this time frame, it's best to look elsewhere for travel insurance. 

HTH Worldwide stands out for its comprehensive coverage at affordable prices. 

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Reviewed HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance

In reviewing HTH Worldwide's travel insurance offerings, we considered things like different types of coverage available, claim limits, what expenses are included, available add-ons, and typical policy costs. We then compared them to similar plans from other top travel insurance companies.

The best policy for you is the one that offers the appropriate amount and type of coverage given your needs and budget. It should also be easy to use in case you ever need to make a claim.

You can read more about how Business Insider rates insurance products here.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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Getting There: Most Washington IDs won’t fly in a year, state officials say, urging people to get their enhanced licenses for airplane travel

In one year, a standard driver’s license or state-issued ID card will no longer be adequate identification for Washington residents to board an airplane.

Instead, people 18 and older will need to bring an enhanced driver’s license or ID card, U.S. passport, tribal ID, military ID, green card or another approved identification document with them to the airport.

The change is the state’s response to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s move to “Real ID” compliance for domestic flights. Effective May 7, 2025, the new federal “Real ID” guidelines were born out of security legislation passed by Congress in 2005 in response to 9/11.

State Department of Licensing Director Marcus Glasper visited the Spokane International Airport earlier this month to discuss the upcoming change in federal law. Glasper urged people to take proactive steps to evaluate their identification card setups well before the May 7 deadline.

“Please don’t wait until next year,” Glasper said. “If you’re thinking of getting an enhanced driver license or ID card, I encourage you to do it as soon as possible. Lines at driver licensing offices will get longer as we get closer to the May 7, 2025, deadline.”

Roughly 22% of Washington residents with licenses or state-issued ID cards already have made the switch to an enhanced license, state Department of Licensing spokesperson Christine Anthony said.

Enhanced licenses cost more than standards ones. An enhanced license that expires in five years costs $116, compared to $81 .

Licensing officials aren’t sure exactly how many people will make the switch at their local licensing offices in the next 12 months, because they don’t have records of the number of people with other forms of ID that will work under the new federal law.

Licensing offices across the state recently instituted an online appointment system where people can reserve a time slot in advance to cut down on in-person wait times. Walk-ins still are accepted.

To figure out what documents to bring for an appointment to get an enhanced ID card, Anthony said the DOL manages a web page with instructions for residents.

Anthony wanted to remind the public that they might already have another form of ID that will work to get them on an airplane.

“It’s just about knowing what you have and knowing what you might need,” Anthony said. “We have a website that people can go to that will walk them through.”

The following ID formats will be accepted in lieu of an enhanced license or state-issued ID card:

• U.S. or foreign passport.
• U.S. passport card.
• Military ID.
• Department of Homeland Security trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST).
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential.

Called the Real ID Act, the federal law that will require additional identification to board airplanes was passed by Congress in 2005. Multiple times, the government has punted the date they say the law will take effect.

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