a skier on Vail Mountain

A skier catches some air on Vail Mountain in Colorado.

Photograph by Chris McLennan, Alamy

101 Reasons to Travel Now: Travel Hacks

We've scoured the globe in search of hidden gems to experience around the world. Check out these tips from our globe-trotting network.

ByAmy Alipio and Jennifer Barger
August 20, 2015
3 min read

From the October 2015 issue of Traveler magazine

Reasons to Travel Now: 54-66

54. STRONGER DOLLAR:

With the euro, the Japanese yen, and other currencies at a historic low against the dollar, travel for Americans is cheaper than usual.

55. THIS AMERICAN LIFE:

Addictive podcasts of the weekly public radio show will make any long-haul drive a delight.

56. EPIC SKI PASS:

For about the price of seven daily lift tickets you get unlimited, all-season access to 11 ski resorts in California, Colorado, and Utah. Only hook? You’ve got to buy it before the season starts.

57. POSTCARDS:

Whether from the edge or just from New Jersey, these cultural souvenirs have Instagram beat when it comes to tangible travel pleasures.

58. HOPPER APP:

Airline ticket search taking into account the best times of day to fly. Also alerts you to the right time to book

59. BirdsEYE APP:

Guide to the likely birds you’ll see in any given area, with the ability to record and submit sightings quickly

60. JUST AHEAD APP:

GPS-guided audio tour of national parks, with entertaining stories, geography, history, and driving directions

61. DUOLINGO APP:

Gamelike language learning and an iconic owl mascot. Covers ten languages, including Irish and Turkish

62. ROOTSRATED.COM:

Type in your outdoor activity of choice, and this nifty website shows where you can do it at your destination. Backpacking near Bozeman, anyone?

63. NO-TIPPING RESTAURANTS

Book us a corner table at the growing number of American fine-dining spots, such as New York City’s Dirt Candy and Pittsburgh’s Bar Marco, where owners have abolished tips in favor of paying staff living wages.

64. GETTING OFF THE GRID:

And being wholly in the now.

65. GET-UPS AND GO:

Sustainable-minded Nau clothing is outdoor wear you can take from Brooklyn bar to base camp.

66. BRIGHTER BAGS:

Brands like Delsey, Trunkster, and ChicBuds are introducing suitcases and bags that charge your phone, weigh and locate themselves, unlock with fingerprint ID, and even give weather forecasts.

More from 101 Reasons to Travel Now: See insider finds in the world's greatest cities (#67-84)>>

LIMITED TIME OFFER

Get a FREE tote featuring 1 of 7 ICONIC PLACES OF THE WORLD

Go Further