Resources &
Gear
Our favorite tools, apps, and gear for traveling smart on a student budget. No fluff, no filler — just stuff we actually use.
Heads up! Some links on this page are affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep Traveloonie running and free for everyone.
✈️ Booking Flights
Finding cheap flights is an art. These tools make it easier.
Skyscanner
The "Everywhere" search is perfect when you're flexible on where to go. Compare prices across airlines and find the cheapest month to fly.
Visit Skyscanner →Google Flights
Explore destinations on a map, track price changes, and use flexible dates to find the best deals. Free and incredibly powerful.
Visit Google Flights →Kiwi.com
Great for "hack" routes — combining airlines to build cheaper itineraries that traditional search engines miss.
Visit Kiwi.com →🏨 Accommodation
Where to sleep without breaking the bank.
Hostelworld
The go-to for backpackers. Social features help you meet other travelers. Filter by atmosphere, price, and location.
Visit Hostelworld →Booking.com
Massive selection with free cancellation on most listings. Great for last-minute deals and apartments for longer stays.
Visit Booking.com →Couchsurfing
Stay with locals for free. The best way to experience a city like a resident, not a tourist. Requires giving back to the community.
Visit Couchsurfing →🛡️ Travel Insurance
Don't skip this. Seriously.
World Nomads
Designed for adventurous travelers. Covers activities like hiking, scuba diving, and snowboarding. Buy and extend while traveling.
Visit World Nomads →SafetyWing
Subscription-based travel insurance perfect for digital nomads and long-term travelers. Affordable monthly payments, global coverage.
Visit SafetyWing →🎒 Backpacking Gear
Pack light, travel far.
Good Backpack
Invest in one quality 40-50L backpack. It's your home on the road. Look for hip belt support, rain cover, and laptop compartment.
Browse Backpacks →Packing Cubes
Game changer for organization. Compress your clothes and find everything without unpacking your entire bag.
Browse Packing Cubes →Universal Adapter
One adapter that works everywhere. Get one with USB-C ports and you're set for any country.
Browse Adapters →📱 Essential Apps
Your phone is your best travel companion.
Maps.me
Offline maps that actually work. Download maps before you lose signal and navigate like a local — no data needed.
Visit Maps.me →XE Currency
Real-time currency conversion so you never get ripped off at exchange counters. Works offline with cached rates.
Get XE App →Google Translate
Download languages for offline use. The camera feature translates menus and signs in real time — essential for non-English-menu restaurants.
Visit Google Translate →📋 Packing List
Never forget anything again.
The Loonie Packing List
Our printable, interactive checklist covers everything for a 2-week trip in a 40L bag. Print it or save as PDF.
Open Packing List →💰 Daily Budget Calculator
Plan your spending before you go. Pick a destination and travel style to see estimated daily costs.