We compiled data from Smart Growth America’s Foot Traffic Ahead rankings to determine the best walkable cities in the US. This non-profit group measures destination walkability in the 35 largest US metropolitan areas by analyzing walkability metrics to create an overall walkability score. 

Michael Rodriguez, Director of Research at Smart Growth America, explains how they determine which city is the best for walking. “When we talk about walkability in Foot Traffic Ahead, we’re asking two questions: How many businesses and destinations are within walking distance, and are there sidewalks, crosswalks, and other safety features that make it easy to walk from Point A to Point B?”

Rodriguez says these walkable areas are some of the most popular tourist destinations. “Travelers can likely save on transportation costs by choosing to visit our top-ranking metros and staying in walkable areas.” After all, Rodriguez explains, “Few recreational tourists spend money to go stay in an empty business park on a weekend.”

The report found that the most walkable cities in the U.S. tend to be on the coasts, except for Chicago. 

These are the best cities to walk in the US:

1. New York, New York (Walkability Score: 100)

Since less than half of New York City residents own a car, it’s no surprise that The Big Apple is the most walkable city in America. The city block grid design makes it easy to find your way without getting lost (or being glued to your smartphone), and you’ll find endless choices for breaks to refuel on every block. 

New York’s public transportation system is the best in the country, with buses, subways, trains, and ferries making the city even more accessible. 

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Little Italy, NoLita, and Bowery.

Best Walkable Hotel: Equinox Hotel New York

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2. Boston, Massachusetts (Walkability Score: 74.3)

Simply get lost along the charming streets of Boston, or add a little more purpose—and history—to your walk on the city’s famous Freedom Trail. Follow the line on the pavement for 2.5 miles and take a self-guided tour of Boston’s best neighborhoods and attractions. Or, download the Freedom Trail app to learn some of the city’s history while you walk. 

Boston has a wide public transit network as well, with subways, buses, ferries, and commuter trains covering the city and surrounding suburbs. 

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Beacon Hill, Chinatown, and North End.

Best Walkable Hotel: Boston Park Plaza.

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3. Washington, DC (Walkability Score: 72.6)

The best way to see Washington, D.C.’s monuments is on foot. Start at the National Mall and work your way from the Washington Monument down to the Lincoln Memorial. The city’s diverse neighborhoods are all extremely walkable, but if you prefer a more peaceful walk, head to Rock Creek Park, an urban oasis with plenty of walking trails to explore.

When you get tired of walking, Washington D.C.’s extensive public transportation network makes it easy to get around without a car. The city’s subway system extends into two neighboring states (Virginia and Maryland).

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: U-Street, Dupont Circle, and Mount Vernon Square.

Best Walkable Hotel: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington DC

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4. Seattle, Washington (Walkability Score: 69.4)

Seattle is a hiker’s paradise with three stunning national parks in its backyard. Get in some warm-up walks around the city, exploring the lively Pike Place Market and the Space Needle. When your energy starts to flag, you can find an amazing cup of locally brewed coffee practically everywhere you turn in the city.

Seattle’s rapid transit network has improved significantly over the last few years, and now offers a choice of light rail, streetcar, monorail, and commuter rail for getting around the city.

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Downtown, International District, and Belltown.

Best Walkable Hotel: The Charter Hotel

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5. Portland, Oregon (Walkability Score: 68.5)

Portlanders have a walking mindset that’s reflected in the design of their city. The Smart Growth America study states, “Metro Portland and Seattle share a Northwestern environmental commitment that encourages walkable urbanism.” Portland is not only an extremely walkable city but it’s also one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country, with a wide network of designated bike lanes and bike paths. 

When it’s raining, buses, streetcars, and the light rail offer alternatives for navigating Portland. 

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: The Pearl, Old Town, and Downtown

Best Walkable Hotel: Harlow Hotel

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6. San Francisco, California (Walkability Score: 66.2)

Don’t let San Francisco’s hilly terrain deter you—it’s one of the most walkable cities in the US. Climb up high for incredible views of the bay, meander through the city’s many public parks, and definitely don’t miss a chance to walk across the famous Golden Gate Bridge.

When you’re ready for a ride, San Francisco’s web of buses, light rail trains, streetcars, and iconic cable cars covers all corners of the city.

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Chinatown, Tenderloin, and Polk Gulch.

Best Walkable Hotel: Hotel Emblem San Francisco

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7. Chicago, Illinois (Walkability Score: 65.9)

While the Windy City is at its most walkable in the spring, summer, and fall, you can still get around by foot even on the coldest winter days, thanks to Chicago’s Pedway. The Pedway is the city’s system of underground tunnels and overhead bridges connecting more than 40 blocks in downtown Chicago.

Chicago’s train system nicknamed the “L” for its elevated tracks, began operating in 1892, making it the oldest metro system in the country. There are over 140 stations throughout the city and suburbs to help you explore without a car. 

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: East Ukrainian Village, Wicker Park, and Near North Side.

Best Walkable Hotel: Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile

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8. Los Angeles, California (Walkability Score: 59)

Los Angeles is a famously car-centric city, with traffic-clogged freeways and ample parking lots, but that wasn’t always the case. Many neighborhoods within the city were originally designed as walkable urban enclaves.

The city is trying to change its dependence on automobiles and return to its walkable roots. “Los Angeles is the most densely populated metro in the U.S. and there is an understanding that they have reached the limit of freeway expansion as a part of their transportation system,” explains Smart Growth America.

The city recently invested $180 billion to expand and improve its regional transit system.  

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Downtown Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Santa Monica.

Best Walkable Hotel: DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown.

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9. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (Walkability Score: 57.2)

Nicknamed the “City of Bridges” for the more than 400 bridges connecting communities across the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers, Pittsburgh is great for a scenic stroll by the water. 

If you’re considering relocating, Pittsburgh earned high marks in the walkability study for housing affordability in its most pedestrian-friendly areas. 

Regarding public transportation, Pittsburgh has 27 light rail stations, 700 buses, and boasts the oldest continuously operating funicular railway in the U.S.

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Downtown, Friendship, and Bloomfield.

Best Walkable Hotel: Drury Plaza Hotel Pittsburgh Downtown.

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10. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Walkability Score: 55.1)

With all of the unique regional cuisine that Philadelphia has to offer (like cheesesteaks, hoagies, and water ice), you’ll be grateful for the city’s high walk score and the chance to walk off your indulgences. In addition to a vibrant downtown area, Philadelphia has more than 10,000 acres of public green space for when you need a nature fix.

Philadelphia is also home to the sixth-largest public transportation system in the U.S., the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), which includes trains, subways, trolleys, and buses. 

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Rittenhouse Square, Washington Square West, and Avenue of the Arts South.

Best Walkable Hotel: The Notary Hotel

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11. Minneapolis-St.Paul, Minnesota (Walkability Score: 54.4)

There are over 40 colleges and universities in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area, and a dense cluster of walkable amenities have sprung up around these lively communities. Downtown St. Paul is undoubtedly the best neighborhood for walkers, with everything you could need located within just a few blocks. 

Although the walk between the centers of Minneapolis and St. Paul would be long, a light rail connects the two.

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Downtown, Summit Hill, and Summit-University. 

Best Walkable Hotel: Hyatt Place St. Paul/Downtown.

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12. Miami, Florida (Walkability Score: 54.2)

Avoid Miami traffic and explore this lively city on foot instead. Soak up the sun while you stroll along the 7-mile Miami Beach Boardwalk, or eat your way through the Calle Ocho neighborhood on a walking restaurant crawl while being serenaded by live music. 

Miami has a 25-mile elevated rail system, Metrorail, that is a great way to get between Miami International Airport and Downtown Miami without needing a car. Once you’re downtown, hop aboard the Metromover, a free public bus traveling through the city’s most popular areas. 

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Downtown, Wynwood-Edgewater, and Little Havana.

Best Walkable Hotel: 1 Hotel South Beach.

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13. Charlotte, North Carolina (Walkability Score: 51.7)

Although Charlotte is a fairly car-dependent city overall, it’s a great example of what the Smart Growth America study calls “walkable villages within a big city.” Head to Uptown Charlotte (the city’s center) to see this in action. This area is divided into four smaller neighborhoods or wards, which are very walkable. 

Although Charlotte’s public transportation network isn’t as robust as others on this list, it does have buses and two short light rail lines. 

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Uptown, Plaza Midwood, and South End.

Best Walkable Hotel: The Ivey’s Hotel.

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14. Austin, Texas (Walkability Score: 50)

Austin is an oasis of walkability in Texas’ famously car-centric culture. Downtown Austin is by far the most walkable area in the city. Designed in a grid system, this compact city center is easy to navigate and features acclaimed restaurants, lively bars, and boutique shops on practically every block.

Although Austin’s public transportation is limited to its Capital Metro Bus System, the city is also reasonably bike-friendly if you want an alternative method for getting around than walking. 

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Downtown, West University, Bouldin Creek.

Best Walkable Hotel: Thompson Austin.

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15. Atlanta, Georgia (Walkability Score: 49.4)

Atlanta’s walkability really depends on what neighborhood you’re in. In Peachtree Center, in the heart of downtown, you’ll find many shopping and dining hubs within easy walking distance from one another. Once you get further from the city center, it’s more likely that you’ll need a car to get around.

The city is also prioritizing improving its bikeability, as evidenced by the Atlanta Beltline Trail, a 22-mile rail trail that encourages walking and biking. 

Atlanta’s public transportation system, the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) serves over 100,000 people daily across its network of buses and trains. 

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Peachtree Center, Sweet Auburn, Midtown.

Best Walkable Hotel: The Westin Peachtree Plaza.

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The Least Walkable City in the US

If you’re wondering what least walkable city in the U.S. is, Las Vegas ranked last out of the 35 cities on the list. The study notes, “The only high-density walkable urbanism in the metro is along The Strip.” However, The Arts District and downtown are both reviving, so hopefully, Las Vegas will see improved walkability outside of The Strip.

The post The 15 Most Walkable Cities in the US, Ranked appeared first on SmarterTravel.

I found 10 lines that qualify, listed here alphabetically, with samples of posted one-way fares. Most lines employ capacity-controlled pricing: As buses fill up, fares for remaining seats increase. Most lines also offer a variety of round-trip, multi-ride, frequent-traveler membership, student, and similar discounts. Most require reservations, and pick up and leave travelers on public-street loading zones, or sometimes at hotels.

Editors’ Note: Included fares are accurate at time of publication.

BestBus

BestBus is one of the many bus lines that operate between New York City and the Washington, D.C. area. Although most of its trips use conventional intercity buses, one or two daily trips feature “Prime” service that offers the necessary luxury mix. At least one trip operates most days nonstop between New York Penn Station and Washington-area drop off points at DuPont Circle and Union Station and three stops in suburban Virginia. The Prime fare for February starts at around $47 one-way, compared with $38-40 for the regular service; trips take four hours and more.

Amtrak offers frequent competition, with trips taking from a bit under three hours (Acela, from $155) to 3:30 hours (Northeast Regional, hovering around at $115 with fares below $100 available on specific dates).

C&J Bus Lines

C&J operates at least two daily trips, all with luxury buses, on two main routes:

• Connecting Boston with Dover, Portsmouth, and Seabrook New Hampshire. Trips take 55 minutes to Seabrook, at $13.99, to 1:30 to 2 hours to Dover at $14.99, and on average 1:15 to 1:30 to Portsmouth at $14.99.
• Connecting New York with Andover, Massachusetts as well as Seabrook and Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Trips take 4 hours to Andover, fares are $74. Trips to Seabrook take between 4:30 and 4:45 and trips to Portsmouth take roughly 5:15, fares for both are $84.

Concord Coach Lines

Concord operates several trunk routes, but offers its luxury “Plus Bus” on one daily round trip each on its route connecting New York City with Portland, Maine (6 hours, $79).

Amtrak connects New York with Portland, but a train trip requires changing trains and stations in Boston. The shortest connection for a trip in early March takes six hours and costs $84, including bus transfer between stations in Boston. Competitive air service to Portland for a similar time frame starts at $45 one way.

Dartmouth Coach

Dartmouth Coach operates luxury bus trips at least once daily with extra weekend service between New York City and Hanover/Dartmouth and Lebanon, New Hampshire. Trips take about five hours; fares start at $89. This company is affiliated with Concord Coach Lines and appears to offer a similar luxury product. Dartmouth also operates from the Boston area, but only with conventional buses.

Amtrak does not go near Dartmouth or Lebanon. Flights from New York to Lebanon start at around $134 one way, and require about four hours with a plane change at Boston.

Hampton Jitney

The Hampton Jitney operates between New York and the main eastern Long Island centers, including three to four daily luxury “Ambassador” service trips to/from Montauk, with additional trips to/from Amagansett. Montauk trips take 3:15; fares start at roughly $45.

The competition to the Hamptons is the Long Island Rail Road Montauk line. Montauk trips take 3:15 and cost $22.25 off-peak, $30.50 peak.

Red Coach

Red Coach operates a complex network linking Miami with Tallahassee while also serving key intermediate stops. Although it also operates conventional buses, Red Coach operates luxury First Class runs several times daily between Miami and Tallahassee via Orlando. Miami-Tallahassee trips take about nine and a half hours, with fares starting at $99; Orlando-Miami trips take about 4 hours with fares starting at $45.

Red Coach competes with Amtrak, Brightline, and Tri-Met between some South Florida stops, but no rail line operates to/from Tallahassee or between Atlanta and Florida. Miami-Tallahassee nonstop flight fares start at roughly $150 round trip, taking two hours nonstop or over five hours with a layover.

Tripper Bus Elite

Tripper Bus is one of the many lines that operate between New York City and the Washington DC area. The line runs between two and seven trips each day, and on most days one of those trips uses a luxury “Elite” bus. Trips run between New York City Penn Station area and stops in suburban Bethesda and  Arlington. Travel time is 4:00 hours; Elite class fares start around $60, compared with regular fares which start at $27. See “BestBus” entry for Amtrak and airline competition.

Vamoose Gold

Vamoose is yet another New York-to-Washington bus line that operates a luxury service. “Gold Bus” trips operate three to four times per day between midtown Manhattan and stops in Bethesda, Maryland, and Arlington and Lorton, Virginia. The trips take 4:00 to 4:30 hours to/from Bethesda; 4:40 to/from Arlington; and 5:00 to 5:30 to/from Lorton. Gold Bus fares start at $79, depending on time of day; regular fares start at $49. See “BestBus” entry for Amtrak and airline competition.

Vonlane

Vonlane operates an extensive network of all-luxury bus routes connecting Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, Atlanta, and San Antonio. All stops are at city-center hotels except for Dallas, where the terminal is at a Love Field hotel. Sample fares from Houston to Fort Worth are $129; the trip takes four hours.

All Vonlane routes are serviced by multiple airlines, including Southwest. Sample nonstop airfares for Houston-Dallas in late February start at $154 one way, decreasing to under $100 for select dates in March. Amtrak operates one train daily between Oklahoma City and Fort Worth and one train daily Dallas-Austin-San Antonio. Coach fares Dallas-San Antonio start at $37 for a 10-hour trip.

Washington Deluxe

Washington Deluxe is the fourth (on my list) New York-Washington bus line that offers a deluxe option. “LUX” buses operate less than daily between New York/Penn Station and Washington/DuPont Circle. The trip takes 4:00 to 4:30; the fare starts at $35. See “BestBus” entry for Amtrak competition.

The post A Guide to 10 ‘Luxury Bus’ Lines You Can Take Instead of Amtrak appeared first on SmarterTravel.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Bedbugs

• Can you bring them back to your bed at home?
• What is the first thing you do when you enter a hotel room?
• What should you do if you find evidence of bedbugs in your hotel room?
• What are the most unusual places you can find bedbugs?
• How do you get rid of them once you have them?
• How long does it take to completely eradicate them?
• What is the financial impact if you bring them home with you?
• Is there anything you can buy to protect yourself from bedbugs?
• Can they make you sick? Do they carry diseases?
• How long do they live?
• How big can they grow?
• How many hotels on average have reported cases?
• Is it true that upscale hotels are just as likely as budget motels to have bedbugs?
• What’s something you don’t expect when you have bedbugs?
• What do hotels do to get rid of bedbugs?
• What other pests beyond bedbugs should people look for in their hotel?
• Are there ways to check in advance if a hotel has or has recently had a bedbug problem?
• Is there any type of lodging that has fewer incidents?
• Can you catch lice from an airplane headrest?

If you stay in a hotel room with bedbugs, can you bring them back to your bed at home?

“Bedbugs are relentless hitchhikers, and their primary method of transportation is humans and their belongings. Bedbugs can latch onto our suitcases or clothing if we stay in an infested hotel room, and hide until we reach our final destination—home. The best way to prevent bedbugs from becoming your unintentional roommates is to conduct thorough checks at the hotel and all your personal items when you get home. “

What is the first thing you do when you enter a hotel room?

• The first thing you should do when you arrive in a hotel room is thoroughly inspect it for signs of bedbugs.
• Put your luggage in the bathroom to start, as this non-carpeted room is the most unlikely place for bedbugs to linger.
• Inspect your bed by pulling the comforter and sheets back and checking for any signs of bedbugs. Lift and check underneath the mattress and box spring and at the top and bottom of the bed. These critters are small but visible to the naked eye, so a careful examination will reveal adult and nymph bedbugs, along with their eggs. You may also see dark or red fecal spots and leftover molted skins.
• Carefully check all other furniture in the room. Bedbugs can crawl behind hanging picture frames, hide in corners of the nightstand and disappear inside drapes.
• Once your room has been checked, store your luggage on a hard surface or luggage rack rather than a bed, couch or fabric chair for the smallest chance of contamination.

What should you do if you find evidence of bedbugs in your hotel room?

• “If you see signs of bedbugs in your hotel room, contact the front desk immediately so they can call a qualified pest management professional to resolve the problem. Leave the area and properly examine all of your clothing and belongings, and request a new room.
• If you do suspect you’ve encountered bedbugs, leave your suitcase and belongings in the garage or another separate area when you return home. The luggage can be vacuumed and wiped down to reduce the chances of bringing bedbug or their eggs inside. Remove and examine your shoes for bedbugs and eggs before bringing them into the house.
• For an extra level of protection, wash travel clothes immediately when you return. Items that cannot be washed can usually be run through the dryer for 20 to 30 minutes, as the heat from the dryer alone is enough to kill all stages of bedbugs and their eggs. If you are unsure of the severity of your situation, call a pest control professional for an inspection.”

What are the most unusual places you can find bedbugs (e.g. On a plane? Airport lounge?)

“Bedbugs aren’t found just in beds—they can thrive in any location where there is a human host. The most unusual place we discovered bedbugs was inside prosthetics. Some other unexpected places bedbugs have been found are in court rooms, healthcare facilities, and on public transportation, as well as chairs in movie theaters and restaurants. No place is a guaranteed bedbug-free zone; any place humans sit, rest or sleep gives bedbugs the opportunity to feed and multiply.”

How do you get rid of them once you have them?

“There are several steps you can take to eliminate bedbugs:

• Immediately wash infested bedding according to the manufacturer’s instructions – the soap and heat can help eliminate bedbugs at any stage.
• However, if you suspect you might have an infestation, the best thing to do is to call a professional. Pest management professionals have the best methods for treating a bedbug infestation in its entirety. At Terminix, we employ a range of treatments for residential and commercial infestations, including a fast, non-toxic treatment called RapidFreeze^®. RapidFreeze uses carbon dioxide (CO₂) converted to a dry ice ‘snow’ to freeze insects, including their eggs and nymphs, after contact. RapidFreeze is perfect for homes, hotels, apartments, food processing plants and organic industries. After treatment, if bedbugs are found within 30 days, Terminix will re-treat at no additional cost.”

How long does it take to completely eradicate them?

“Eradicating bedbugs is tricky and the length of time to resolve the problem varies on a case-by-case basis. Some infestations can be persistent. Time to control depends on the severity of the problem, where they are hiding, and the type of treatments performed. “

What is the financial impact if you bring them home with you?

“Addressing a bedbug problem immediately is the best way to keep associated costs down. The financial impact of an infestation in a home can vary, and costs can include more than just the expense of inspection and treatment.  Some infestations may require structural repair or alteration. Sanitizing, or even replacing some infested items may be required. Depending on many factors, the total cost of curing an infestation can run from hundreds to thousands of dollars.”

Is there anything you can buy to protect yourself from bedbugs?

“Regular self, luggage, and room inspections are the most effective way for someone to protect themselves from bedbugs. Some companies market luggage encasements that help prevent bedbugs from entering your bag. Investing in hard-sided luggage, instead of fabric, can also help prevent bedbugs from creeping in.”

Can they make you sick? Do they carry diseases?

“While bedbugs have not yet been shown to transmit diseases through feeding activities, there may still be health risks associated with exposure to these pests. The most common health issue is the result of itching or excessive scratching of the bites they leave behind, which can cause damage to the skin and introduce infection. In rare cases, individuals may have severe allergic reactions to bedbug bites. “

How long do they live?

“The average lifespan of a bedbug is typically around ten months. A bedbug life cycle includes multiple stages. A female bedbug lays eggs singly or in small groups and they take anywhere from six to seventeen days to hatch. By the time she dies, a female may have laid hundreds of eggs.”

How big can they grow?

“Bedbugs can grow to be about the size of an apple seed—approximately 3/16 to 1/4 inch long.”

How many hotels on average have reported cases?

“There is no way for us to know the percentage of hotels with bedbug cases, though there’s a chance that any hotel you’ve stayed in is at risk of infestation—reported cases are on the rise across the nation. In 2016, Terminix observed a 19.9 percent year-over-year increase in bedbug-related calls.”

Is it true that upscale hotels are just as likely as budget motels to have bedbugs?

“All hotels are equally susceptible to contracting bedbugs, as they are primarily introduced and spread by hotel visitors. However, hotels that conduct more thorough room inspections can often detect problems sooner and engage a pest control professional before the issue spreads from room to room. “

What’s something you don’t expect when you have bedbugs?

“Some people experience psychological side effects after experiencing a bedbug infestation. Bedbugs can cause a great deal of anxiety with people fearing another infestation, or concerned about the social stigma associated with bedbugs. “

What do hotels do to get rid of bedbugs?

“Most hotels rely on pest management professionals to create customized treatment plans to remove any signs of bedbugs. This can include a variety of methods, from the use of heat and cold to bringing in bedbug-sniffing dogs.”

What other pests beyond bedbugs should people look for in their hotel?

“Ticks and fleas are an often unexpected pest in hotels – most guests are not expecting to encounter these parasites, but many properties allow pets in rooms that can harbor unwanted hitchhikers. Unlike bedbugs, fleas, and ticks can be vectors of pathogens that cause disease.”

Are there ways to check in advance if a hotel has or has recently had a bedbug problem?

“A common method of vetting properties for bedbug activity is to check online bedbug registries or to check online reviews to see if anyone has reported bedbug incidents in their destination. “

Is there any type of lodging that has fewer incidents? B&Bs, etc.?

“Unfortunately, the type of lodging has little impact on its susceptibility to bedbugs. Bedbugs aren’t picky, and can thrive in a five-star resort or a truck-stop motel.”

Can you catch lice from an airplane headrest?

“It is possible to catch lice from an airplane headrest. However, most airlines have sanitation programs to keep seats clear of pests. It can be difficult to prove the exact location of origin of lice contact, as many people don’t realize they’ve contracted the pest until four to six weeks after exposure. Anyone suspecting they have contracted lice should consult a medical professional for treatment advice. “

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Pack These Sleep Masks

Concerned about ruining your pristine makeup, or if your sleep mask will truly achieve total blackout? Try one of these sleep masks that could change your mind.

Baloo Living Sleep Stone Mask

Baloo Living’s Sleep Stone Mask pulls triple-duty. It’s light-blocking, noise-muffling, and calming thanks to an oversized design and hidden crystal pocket. This sleep mask comes with your choice of “sleep stone” crystal (amethyst for calming, purple fluorite, blue lace agate, or rose quartz) that tucks into a secret pocket over the third eye chakra. 

The mask features a wide-wrapped velcro closure that lets you adjust for the perfect fit without getting it caught in your hair, and it’s made from a satin/spandex blend that’s comfortable and good for your hair and skin.

Bedtime Bliss Sleep Masks

When you are in the deepest stage of sleep, called rapid-eye movement, or REM cycle, your eyes move around underneath your eyelids. You don’t want to have anything restricting that movement: A sleep mask like Bedtime Bliss that’s contoured around your eyes is good at preventing this. Rather than pressing down on your eyelids, it gives your eyes the space to move freely as you dream.

Yala Silk Sleep Masks

If you’re going to wear something on your delicate eye area all night, it might as well be silk. The material is purported to help prevent wrinkles and breakouts when used as a sleep mask. Yala’s silk sleep masks have a 100 percent silk exterior, which feels soothing on your skin. The black silk lining helps block out light, and the two ultra-thin straps won’t annoy you when you’re laying down.

GoSleep Travel Sleeping System

Fall asleep sitting up and on a brightly lit airplane with the GoSleep Travel Sleeping System, which uses adjustable elastic straps: Loop them around the wings of your headrest, rather than your seatback to avoid annoying the person behind you. When attached to the sleep mask, they’ll keep your head from bobbing forward.

Lavender Silk Eye Pillow

Research has found that the smell of lavender can help induce sleep—or at least block out bad smells in your airplane cabin or hotel room. This Premium Lavender eye mask is filled with the herb, and it’s customizable—you can add or remove lavender until you get a comfortable fit.

IMAK Compression Pain Relief Mask and Eye Pillow

If you suffer from migraines, sinus pain, or puffy eyes, you’ll want to try the IMAK eye pillow, which is filled with tiny ergoBeads that conform to your face and give a gentle massaging effect. Pop it in the freezer for cooling relief and to help with puffy or swollen skin.

NodPod Weighted Sleep Masks

Weighted blankets are thought to provide a calming effect, which can reduce anxiety and help with insomnia—and are very trendy right now. But for a more travel-friendly version, try a weighted sleep mask like the NodPod, which uses microbeads as a form of deep-pressure touch therapy to help you sleep better and to alleviate stress.

Alaska Bear Sleep Masks

The Alaska Bear sleep masks are a cult favorite on Amazon, with a 4.5-star rating and nearly 10,000 customer reviews—and certain colors are only $5.99 price at time of writing. The sleep masks have an adjustable headband that will fit any head size. A small flap by the nose can be flipped for extra light-blocking power.

Puroni Blackout Sleep Mask

If you can’t stand anything touching your eyelids while you sleep, the Puroni Blackout Sleep Mask is for you. This sleep mask has deep, 3D-contoured domes that surround your eyes (rather than resting on them) so you’ll feel like you aren’t wearing anything on your face.

Travel Halo Sleep Mask

The Travel Halo looks like a visor pulled down over your face, but it’s actually a plush eye mask with two small pillows attached to the side, which will cradle your head and prevent it from falling down when you sleep sitting up. When you’re not using it, it rolls up for easy storage.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 10 Travel Gadgets to Help You Sleep Away from Home
• 10 Tiny Gadgets That Will Help You Sleep on the Plane
• 8 Neck Pillows That Won’t Embarrass You on the Plane

Caroline Morse Teel will shamelessly wear any of these sleep masks in public. Follow Caroline on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline for style and travel photos.

Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product.

The post 10 Best Sleep Masks for Travel appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Getting around Australia takes a little planning. It’s a huge country, only slightly smaller than Canada and the U.S., with big distances between major cities. Fortunately, low-cost airlines offer competitively priced flights on the main domestic routes, and highways connect most of the country. Long-distance passenger trains (plus buses that connect at train stations for travel to outlying areas) are also available in some parts of Australia. Read on to learn everything you need to know about Australia transportation.

Australia by Air

Getting to Australia is a long haul—approximately 14 to 16 flying hours from the West Coast of North America, and another four to five hours if connecting from the East Coast. Flights from Europe typically connect in Asia and take nearly a full day.

The majority of North Americans will arrive at Sydney International Airport (also known as Kingsford Smith), Melbourne, or Brisbane. Major airlines connecting the two continents include Qantas, United Airlines, Air New Zealand (via Auckland), Virgin Australia, and Air Canada.

Flying within Australia is easy between major cities. The Sydney-Melbourne leg is the busiest with plenty of services, and fares for this 1.5-hour flight are quite competitive. Flights between Sydney and Brisbane also take 1.5 hours, while it’s five hours in the air from Sydney to Perth.

Qantas, its low-cost subsidiary airline Jetstar, and competitor Virgin Australia have most of the country covered. As all three carriers also operate international flights, it’s important to ensure you’re at the correct terminal for the correct flight.

Virgin Australia and Jetstar started as as low-cost, no-frills airlines where passengers paid extra for food and beverages (apart from tea/coffee/water). Nowadays Virgin Australia offers complimentary snacks and beverages (as well as meals on select routes), and allows passengers to check a single bag for free. Jetstar is more restrictive, with a strict carry-on baggage allowance (and hefty fees if your hand luggage is overweight) and no food included. Jetstar permits one complimentary checked bag. Fares on most Australian airlines are cheapest when booked online.

A handful of smaller regional airlines also serve country towns and remote Outback areas. Regional Express Airlines, known as REX, flies to towns in New South Wales, South Australia, Queensland, and Victoria, with limited service in Western Australia; Skytrans flies to remote regions in northern Queensland from a base in Cairns; and Par Avion operates in Tasmania. Aircraft on these regional airlines are often quite small, and fares can be expensive, as there may be little or no competition on the route.

Renting a Car in Australia

Car travel is popular in Australia, and most Aussies take to the road over Easter and during the six-week holiday season from mid-December to the end of January. North Americans will find it easier and cheaper to travel outside of peak season, particularly between February and April (before Easter) and in October or November when prices are cheaper and the weather is pleasant.

All the major international rental car brands are based in Australia. An international driver’s license is not required if your own driver’s license is written in English. Prices can be quite high, with lower rates for seven-day hire. Low-cost companies charge less, but they may use older cars and/or restrict the areas of travel. Local company Bayswater Car Rental, which has depots in Sydney and Perth, is popular for its low rates and affordable insurance.

All rental car drivers will incur a charge, called an excess, if they damage the vehicle. This excess can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, and insurance can be purchased to bring down this cost.

Australians drive on the left side of the road and should only use the right-hand lanes on freeways when overtaking. Speed limits vary from 70 to 110 kilometers per hour (between 43 and 68 mph) on freeways and from 40 to 60 kilometers per hour (25 to 37 mph) on city and suburban streets. School zone speed limits (usually 40 kph) are rigorously enforced. Police regularly carry out random breath testing (RBT) for drivers to detect alcohol levels. If you’re caught with more than a 0.05 alcohol reading, you’re under arrest.

Most metropolitan motorways in Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne charge a toll, paid electronically via an e-tag device attached to a car’s windscreen. Overseas travelers must pay toll costs or be fined. Visitors can pay online or purchase a 30-day toll pass through a service called Linkt. To get a pass, drivers go online, pay a small set-up fee, and register their credit card and the license plate of their rental vehicle. The freeway toll machines detect the vehicle, then charge the toll back to the associated credit card.

Prepare for long distances if you’re driving in Australia. From Sydney it’s a 10- to 12-hour drive to Brisbane and slightly less to Melbourne, although no one should attempt to drive such long distances on unfamiliar roads all in one trip. (We recommend making at least one overnight stop along the way.)

Take particular care when driving in the Outback or other remote regions. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is highly recommended (and some rental car companies won’t let you take other types of vehicles into the region). Bring plenty of water, especially if you’re traveling during the hot summer months. Keep in mind that gas stations are few and far between, so you’ll want to fill up when you can.

Australia Campervans, Motorhomes, and Caravans

Campervans, motorhomes, and caravans can be rented from a variety of outlets (note that it may prove costly to choose a caravan, as you’ll also need to rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle to tow it). Campervans are perfect for a couple without much luggage who don’t mind roughing it. The cheapest versions will simply turn the back area into a sleeping area; other vans have a pop-up enclosed roof where the double bed is fitted.

Motorhomes are more luxurious and usually have a bed above the driver’s cabin, another bed that assembles on the kitchen table, and often a small bathroom with toilet. There are many camping and caravan sites (called caravan or holiday parks) dotted along the coast of Australia and in regional towns, providing bathroom facilities, power, barbecue areas, a convenience store, and often Wi-Fi.

Jucy and Britz are two of the most popular local operators.

Australia by Train

Two of Australia’s most iconic train journeys are the Indian-Pacific (IP) and the Ghan, privately run tourist rail services operated by Journey Beyond Rail Expeditions. They are far from cheap but well worth taking for the sheer experience of traveling the length and breadth of the country in comfort with fascinating stops along the way.

The aptly named Indian Pacific links the two oceans from Perth to Sydney over four days and three nights. The Ghan links Adelaide in the south with Darwin in the north in a journey spanning three days and two nights. You can opt for a longer journey with the Ghan Expedition, which runs over four days and three nights.

Journey Beyond also recently introduced its Great Southern service, which runs between Adelaide and Brisbane over up to four days.

Queensland Rail offers great scenic train journeys on coastal and Outback routes at affordable rates. One of our favorites is the Spirit of Queensland, a 25-hour, 1,044-mile route between Brisbane and Cairns. There are traditional tourist trains as well, providing jaunts on barely used railway lines in remote areas that include tours and stays in country hotels.

In NSW it’s possible to take trains in four directions from Sydney—north, northwest, west, and south—to cities including Brisbane, Melbourne, Canberra, the Blue Mountains, and the Outback towns of Moree and Broken Hill. Economy and first-class cabins with sleepers are available on long journeys such as the 11-hour and 14-hour trips to Melbourne and Brisbane, respectively.

In Victoria trains travel from Melbourne to the gold fields towns of Bendigo and Ballarat, the Murray River town of Swan Hill, and the Great Ocean Road town of Warrnambool, with buses feeding off the main rail arteries.

In Western Australia, Transwa links destinations such as Perth, Kalgoorlie Boulder, and Kalbarri.

Australia by Bus

Traveling long distances is also possible by coach (bus), with some trips cheaper than train travel. Greyhound Australia has the country covered, while smaller companies such as Premier and Murrays operate in certain regions. Greyhound has travel passes for hop-on/hop-off options. Vehicles usually have restrooms, USB charger points, and Wi-Fi. The only way to get around Tasmania without a car is by coach. Tassielink connects most of the state, with services supplemented by regional operators.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 25 Ways to Save on Australia Travel
• 10 Ways to Survive a Long-Haul Flight
• The Best Places to Stay in Australia, from Wilderness Lodges to Beach Resorts

Original reporting by Caroline Gladstone. Sarah Schlichter contributed to this story.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post Everything You Need to Know About Getting Around Australia appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Here’s a collection of New York apps that can help you stay ahead of the game on your next trip to the Big Apple. This is by no means a comprehensive list because, like New York itself, there is too much to investigate in one pass. But the New York City apps here should cover most of your general needs (and a few specific ones) to help you navigate your Gotham adventure.

The Best New York City Apps for Travelers: Transportation

Citymapper New York

Unless you’re Spider-Man (and if you are, call me), you’re going be using New York’s impressive and sprawling bus and subway system to get around. Even if you’re from a metro area that has a mass transit network, New York’s can be daunting. The New York City app from Citymapper should be your first tool in using and understanding the public transit system. Not only does it have full maps that can be used offline, but it also shows real-time bus and train departures and lets you combine public transit with other modes such as bike shares and cabs.

Cost: Free
Platforms: iOS, Android

Exit Strategy NYC

Sure, Exit Strategy NYC has both a complete subway and bus map for all five boroughs of the city, but as the name implies, its focus is about accessing these options. Exit Strategy also provides the locations to all station entrances and exits, making it easier for you to transition between street and subway. Add to that tips on where to stand on the platforms (a skill some longtime residents of the city still haven’t mastered) and you’ll be in great shape for all your subway hopping needs.

Cost: $3.99
Platforms: iOS, Android

ParkMe

You might be one of the few extremely … let’s say “brave” people who are willing to drive to New York and deal with the cough cough joy of parking there. That means you’re going to pay for parking, be it for a space, for a meter, or to get your car out of impound. ParkMe is one of the best New York City apps for this endeavor. It scans data for lots near your location to show you availability and rates, and lets you prepay and reserve a spot ahead of time. It may sound like I’m overselling how bad the parking is, but trust me: You’ll want to be prepared.

Cost: Free
Platforms: iOS, Android

Citi Bike

Want to zip around New York City on two wheels? Citi Bike is the city’s official bike-share program. The app will help you find the nearest docking station, save your favorite stations, purchase a day pass, and track your ride stats.

Cost: Free
Platforms: iOS, Android

NYC Ferry

Use the ferry app for route maps, ticketing info, and schedules so you can explore NYC by boat and get around sans traffic. The ferries also offer a free Wi-Fi network.

Cost: Free
Platforms: iOS, Android

The Best New York City Apps for Travelers: Attractions

iTourMobile

This app uses GPS technology to locate your whereabouts and provide information on points of interest nearby, like a Sex and the City filming location or famous pizza shop. Download and use it when you’re walking around NYC, because you never know what’s right around the corner in this fascinating city.

Cost: Free or $1.99 per month to access subscriber-only tours
Platforms: iOS, Android

MoMa Audio

Whether you’re at the museum or in your living room, you can get guided audio descriptions of the museum’s latest collections. There are also detailed visual descriptions for the visually impaired.

Cost: Free
Platforms: iOS

TKTS

Millions of people go to New York every year to see shows on and off Broadway. And while there are numerous ways to purchase tickets, few are as useful as the TKTS stands in Manhattan and Brooklyn. This app lets you avoid the lines, check ticket availability, and read reviews of shows. Known for both last-minute tickets and big discounts on day-of tickets, TKTS is a must-have for anyone who wants to take in a show on the Great White Way.

Cost: Free
Platforms: iOS, Android

Statue of Liberty

View the famed NYC landmark through different augmented reality modes and brush up on your history before visiting. You also have access to an on-island audio tour with a map, as well as a podcast miniseries.

Cost: Free
Platforms: iOS

WhyzzExplorer

This app gets the entire family involved on a trip to New York City. Let this app guide you through quizzes, conversations, and food challenges as you and your loved ones get to know the Big Apple.

Cost: Free
Platforms: iOS

The Best New York City Apps for Travelers: Recommendations

Time Out New York

A staple for locals and tourists alike, Time Out New York can show you all the latest concerts, exhibits, events, and everyday happenings at any and all times. Using this New York app, you can check ticket availability, showtimes, and even reviews for those two shows you’re trying to decide between. (If I were you, I’d go for the one that isn’t likely to be touring next year.) If you’re on a budget or have simply spent too much money on Fifth Avenue, make sure to use the “cheap” and “free” filters on this most useful of New York City apps.

Cost: Free
Platforms: iOS, Android

Tripadvisor

Create and share trips with points of interest with your whole group. The new Tripadvisor app is handy for mapping out all of the places that you want to go in one place. P.S. We have our own profile page to follow that has handy, pre-curated trips (and so does the tourism board, NYC Go). Tripadvisor is SmarterTravel’s parent company.

Cost: Free
Platforms: iOS, Android

Yelp

Odds are if you do any traveling or dining, you’ve got Yelp on your smartphone. While Yelp isn’t always the best app for every location, for major cities like New York it certainly proves its value. Besides reviews, listings, maps, and menus for every type of food you can imagine, it’s a great backup for all the other apps on this list. You don’t always have to be a local to find good stuff in a new town.

Cost: Free
Platforms: iOS, Android

More From SmarterTravel:

• New York City Travel Guide
• New York on a Budget: 25 Ways to Save on Travel
• Tipping in New York: The New York Tipping Guide

Jason Flynn is a freelance writer, editor, and geek of all trades. Follow him on Twitter @flynntendo.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. This article has been updated since the date of its publication with the input of NYC Go.

The post The 13 Best New York City Apps for Travelers appeared first on SmarterTravel.

East Coasters know that the oft-traveled Boston to New York to Washington, D.C. route can be a pricey one whether you take a car, plane, train or bus. Travelers who opt to drive between the cities in an effort to save money may now be rethinking that option considering fluctuating gas prices and the maddening traffic jams that are common along the way. In addition, heated competition among JetBlue, Delta, and American Airlines has made flying a much more affordable option. Here we outline four ways to travel to the cities, including the cost, travel time, and pros and cons of each.

Traveling the Boston to New York City to Washington, D.C. Route by Air

Who: Delta Airlines (via La Guardia, JFK, Newark, BWI, Ronald Reagan, and Dulles), American Airlines (via JFK, LaGuardia, and Reagan), and JetBlue (via LaGuardia, Newark, BWI, and Reagan) offer nonstop service between the three cities. United operates the Boston to Newark route and to Dulles and Reagan in D.C. Note that JetBlue does not offer flights from the New York City area to D.C.

Cities Served: Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C.

Cost: Prices and fares vary dramatically based on availability and on the date and time of your flight. However, round-trip fares to and from all three cities tend to stay at or below $150. You should also take into consideration transportation to/from the city center and each airport when comparing prices for Boston to New York City to Washington, D.C. via air to other modes of transportation, which typically operate closer to urban centers and points of interest.

Travel Time: Depending on your route, a nonstop flight can last anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours, not including travel time to and from the airport or check-in.

Pros:

• Many departures. All of these airlines have departures all day long, but you may pay more for prime time. Less expensive fares can sometimes be found early in the morning or late in the evening.
• You’ll earn frequent flyer miles.
• No traffic (except getting to and from the airport).

Cons:

• American, Delta, and JetBlue operate from New York’s LaGuardia Airport, which is the least convenient of the city’s three airports if you are planning to go to Manhattan via public transportation. However, it’s the closest airport, and the least expensive to travel to and from if you plan to take a taxi or car service.
• Finding the best fare can be time-consuming with so many possible airport combinations, particularly if you’re flying between New York and D.C. as each city is served by three major airports.

Traveling the Boston to New York City to Washington, D.C. Route by Train

Who: Amtrak offers both Acela Express and regional service between the three cities, plus Philadelphia.

Cities Served: There are daily weekday Acela Express round-trips between Washington, D.C. and New York, as well as several daily weekday round-trips between Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C. Weekend service runs approximately once every hour between New York and Washington, D.C. about as regularly to/from Boston.

Cost: In comparison to airfare, train service between Boston, New York City, and Washington, D.C. is oftentimes just as expensive, if not more. Amtrak operates both a regional service and “express” service, or the Acela, and charges more for the faster service.

The lowest one-way fares from Boston to New York City on the regional service typically start around $56, while the Acela starts around and $97. The lowest one-way fares from New York City to Boston on the regional service typically start around $54, as compared to about $137 for the Acela service. Prices fluctuate during busier travel times and time of day. The lowest one-way fares from Boston to Washington, D.C. on the regional service typically start around $81 for regional and $144 for Acela. Prices fluctuate during busier travel times and time of day. Unlike with airlines, prices tend to only go up the closer you get to the travel date as select train times sell out. Follow Amtrak on social media as it typically offers fare sales around holidays and during other times of year. Check out its deals page here.

Travel Time: For Acela Express service, plan on about three hours between Washington, D.C. and New York, about seven hours between Washington, D.C. and Boston, and about three and a half hours between New York and Boston. For regional trains, add 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your route. Click here for the Acela Express and Northeast Regional timetables.

Pros:

• On Acela Express, “Quiet Cars” make for a comfortable and peaceful ride, and conference tables and power outlets allow passengers who wish to work to do so easily. An onboard bistro offers several food and beverage options.
• The train stations in each city are easily accessible from other points in the city.
• For travelers concerned with the environmental impact of their travel, trains are the most eco-friendly option.
• There is free Wi-Fi on the train routes.
• Larger and more comfortable seats than an airplane.

Cons:

• Regional trains are much less luxurious than the Acela Express, and they stop more frequently.
• With the abundance of flight options, taking the train may prove both more expensive and more time-consuming than flying.

Traveling the Boston to New York City to Washington, D.C. Route by Bus

Who: Greyhound, “Chinatown” bus services, and several newer bus services. The “Chinatown” buses are called this because they are most often operated by Chinese tour companies and have a pick-up or drop-off point in the city’s Chinatown area. There is also BoltBus, which runs between New York and Boston, and New York and Washington, D.C. (and also stops in Philadelphia). Megabus, which also operates between major U.S. cities; Peter Pan, which operates between major U.S. cities; and Lucky Star, which operates between New York City and Boston.

Cities Served: Boston, New York, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia.

Cost: Bus fares vary, starting at a measly $1 each way up to about $45. The majority of the “Chinatown” buses cost $15 each way for travel between Boston and New York and about $20 each way for travel between New York and Washington, D.C.

Travel Time: About four hours between Boston and New York in light traffic and about five hours between New York and Washington, D.C. However, all three cities have notoriously heavy traffic patterns, and you’re lucky if your trip is this short.

Pros:

• The price of the bus is less than you would pay in gas and tolls, and you won’t have to deal with parking once you get to your destination city.
• The “Chinatown” buses require no advance purchase, though many are sold out during rush-hour travel times.
• There are several companies to choose from in each destination city.
• With so many options, you’re unlikely to get shut out, even on busy travel days.

Cons:

• Travelers are at the mercy of traffic and there may be limited onboard entertainment (although some lines now have added electrical outlets and Wi-Fi to newer buses).
• The “Chinatown” buses can be less reliable than other options, as breakdowns do occur.

To search fares on multiple bus companies at once, try Busbud.com.

Traveling the Boston to New York City to Washington, D.C. Route by Driving

Who: You, traveling in your car. (Under certain circumstances you may want to consider renting a car instead, like if your own vehicle gets poor gas mileage, for example, or if you are leasing your car and don’t want to put too many miles on it.)

Cities Served: Boston, New York, Washington, D.C. and any destination in between.

Cost: Depends on your route and the gas mileage of your vehicle. Assuming you get 25 miles per gallon and gas costs $2.50 per gallon (according to the national average), you’ll pay about $53 to drive one way from D.C. to Boston. Don’t forget to add in tolls, parking expenses, and rental fees (if applicable). You’ll also want to keep in mind the less tangible wear and tear on your vehicle.

Travel Time: About four hours in light traffic between Washington, D.C. and New York or between New York and Boston.

Pros:

• You can make your own travel schedule, departing whenever it’s convenient for you and stopping as necessary for food and bathroom breaks.
• The more people traveling in your group, the more cost-effective an option this is.
• If you need a car in your destination city, driving yourself is almost always cheaper than renting a vehicle once you get there.

Cons:

• You’ll be at the mercy of traffic along your route, particularly if your trip coincides with rush hour in any of these cities.
• Parking downtown in any of these three cities can be inconvenient and expensive.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Top 11 Places to Visit in New York City
• 10 Fun Things to Do in Boston
• 23 Must-See Washington, D.C. Attractions

Editor’s note: This article has been updated since the date of its publication with the input of NYC & Company. Originally written by Genevieve S. Brown; updated by Sarah Schlichter and Ashley Rossi.

The post Traveling the Boston to New York City to Washington, D.C. Route appeared first on SmarterTravel.

There are plenty of helpful hacks that will let you see the world for less. But some budget travel rules are simply myths touted by businesses that benefit from them. Others are created by well-meaning travelers who mistook an exception for the norm. Here are 11 budget travel lies you should be wary of.

Myths You’ve Been Told about Budget Travel

Budget Travel Myth # 1: “Unlock Your Phone”

Talk of enabling your phone for international use (dubbed “unlocking”) usually centers around avoiding hefty roaming fees. But most budget travelers don’t need to unlock their phone anymore thanks to Wi-Fi calling and downloadable apps.

Only set up an international phone plan if you know you’ll absolutely require phone or data service on your trip—meaning, if you’ll need to make voice calls on-the-go, or won’t have any reliable Wi-Fi. If you’re staying in lodging that has Wi-Fi or will be visiting a city that has public networks, you can easily make calls on apps like WhatsApp and Viber, and should download offline travel tools like CityMaps and Google Translate guides. GPS location works on your phone without data enabled, and even your entertainment can be pre-downloaded now.

Editor’s Note: CityMaps, like SmarterTravel, is a part of TripAdvisor Media Group.

Budget Travel Myth # 2: “Rental Cars Are So Cheap There”

It feels like I hear this budget travel myth every time I go to Europe or the United Kingdom. Most people share it with good intentions and are simply used to driving everywhere in the States. But, considering the price of gas outside the U.S. coupled with the popularity of ridesharing and rail passes in Europe and beyond, renting a car should be a last resort. Instead, utilize public transit and rail passes. Both are flexible to your time schedule, and the latter can double as lodging if you’re taking a long overnight journey. Bonus: You won’t need to learn to drive a stick shift or on the other side of the road.

If you truly need a rental car, it’s possible to get one for cheap or free in many destinations thanks to Transfercar, a free rental car relocation service, and BlaBlaCar, which sets up drivers who have empty seats with passengers willing to pay for them. While rental prices might be low, gas by the liter probably isn’t.

Budget Travel Myth # 3: “Stay Outside the City”

It can be nice to stay outside an expensive city if you prefer peace and quiet, and if there’s cheap and reliable public transit to get you into town. But this shouldn’t be a budget travel rule. If you end up spending the difference on getting into the city every day, why waste your vacation time?

Average hotel prices in hubs like San Francisco and London can be sky high, but there are usually cheaper options like rentals that are still within the city limits. Even hotel deals are pretty easy to find: A new hotel booking service called SnapTravel offers exclusive rates on hotels, and some of the best savings are in big cities. It also doesn’t hurt to take a look at Airbnb options (which tend to be cheaper than hotels overall) before you exile yourself.

Budget Travel Myth # 4: “Exchange Money Ahead of Time”

I’m not sure why or how this lie still persists. There’s nothing budget travel about buying foreign currency or exchanging your own cash ahead of time: You’ll almost surely get hit with hidden fees by the service, and it only saves you a minimal amount of time, if any.

The best way to get foreign currency is to simply go to an ATM to withdraw cash upon your arrival, or use a credit card that doesn’t have foreign transaction fees (remember to notify your bank of travel plans ahead of time). You’ll be charged a small ATM fee for withdrawing cash, and should therefore try to minimize the amount of times you use an ATM—but it beats using a service or bank that can take a sizable percentage as a service cost. If you don’t already have a bank that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, switch to one.

Budget Travel Myth # 5: “Book Early”

Booking far in advance is more likely to save you money on a hotel than it is on a flight. Airlines usually start listing their prices months in advance at a premium, and then reduce them until they hit a low about six or seven weeks before—which is the best time to book. Slightly after that you could get lucky if your travel dates are flexible and seats don’t fill up, but a good rule of thumb is to book no more than two months out.

Budget Travel Myth # 6: “Book Last-Minute”

While booking a flight at the last minute is rarely going to save you money, booking a hotel at the last minute depends largely on the destination. Big cities almost always have rooms that need to be filled, so it could be wise to wait for a deal. In smaller locales, you’re more likely end up without a place to stay if you wait too long.

Hotel search sites and apps like Hotel Tonight can often get you a great deal, as long as being unprepared in a big city doesn’t bother you. But don’t depend on short-notice booking options if you’re in a small beach town during peak season. If you find yourself without a room on a whim, the room-booking app Overnight might be able to help.

Budget Travel Myth # 7: “Tours Aren’t Worth the Price”

Most tours and trips that book accommodation and transportation for you are usually pricey. But there are some budget travel bundles and tour options that could save you both money and time. Some have added bonuses, like a seasoned local guide that could make your trip an unforgettable one.

Bundled vacations like those on Groupon Getaways, for example, can go on sale for crazy-low prices, like London and Paris airfare-inclusive trips from $900 if you leave from New York. Even without airfare included in a tour, you can snag incredible value on dream trips like an African safari—which would usually cost thousands. Geckos Travel, a tour provider for travelers ages 18 to 29, for example, offers a Journey Through Botswana safari ending at Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls from as low as $1,050. With local guides, meals, transport, and nature walks included, you’re unlikely to find a better value.

Budget Travel Myth # 8: “Clearing Search History Doesn’t Do Anything”

Clearing your cookies, or search history, is a good habit to have as you browse hotels, research suggests. This fact is considered by some to be a myth, or at least an unsupported claim—but it turns out there is some truth to it. Northeastern University researchers have found that some popular hotel booking sites present slightly cheaper results to users without any hotel search history stored—though only by an average of about $12 to $15 dollars. Still, why not simply clear your history every now and then if it’ll save you a few bucks?

Budget Travel Myth # 9: “Stick to Budget Airlines”

Budget carriers like WOW air and Norwegian get a lot of the credit for record-low transatlantic fares that have come to define modern budget travel, but more and more mid-range airlines are competing with them, and some have a lot more to offer. Don’t discredit them without keeping an eye out for deals, especially since you can usually rack up more frequent flyer points for better rewards if you fly with a mid-range airline.

Most of the under-$100 international fares advertised by budget airlines like WOW are on near-impossible travel dates or don’t include hidden fees. The actual price for your travel is likely to be higher, and a bag bigger than 16 inches and heavier than 22 pounds will cost you $40 to $100 with WOW Air. Don’t discount other airlines, which often have flash sales and seasonal deals that could get you a lot more comfort for less than you might think.

Subscribe to fare alert newsletters (like our City-to-City and Departure City Alerts) to hear about the best deals in real time, and keep an eye on new routes you might want to subscribe to alerts for. Here are seven new airline routes to consider for cheap flights.

Budget Travel Myth # 10: “Don’t Eat Out, Grocery Shop”

Whoever says this probably doesn’t live in a city. Grocery stores can charge an arm and a leg for basic items in city-proper areas, but tourist-frequented destinations usually have cheap-eats spots worth sampling. Noodle shops in Asian hubs and doner kebab spots in cities around the world serve up huge-yet-affordable meals that are also part of experiencing the local culture.

Even if you’re not worried about trying new food and want to cook for yourself, get the ingredients at farmer’s markets instead of a grocery chain. Buying from local vendors with much lower prices than the middle-man stores will make up for the savings divide, and you’re more likely to experience the local food culture first-hand.

Budget Travel Myth # 11: “Skip Insurance”

Whether it’s passing up medical coverage abroad or insurance on a car rental, the person that gives this advice as a budget travel tip is probably not a frequent traveler. The more you pass up insurance, the more likely you are to need it one day. Some don’t realize that insurance can be as affordable as a few dollars a day. Car rental and health insurance should be at the top of your list, especially if you’ll be traveling abroad. Coverage could save you thousands, even hundreds of thousands of dollars in an emergency.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 10 Rookie Mistakes People Make When Booking a Flight
• 7 Stupid Travel Mistakes We’ll Never Make Again
• The Worst Travel Advice We’ve Ever Heard

Associate Editor Shannon McMahon writes about all things travel. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post 11 Budget Travel Lies You Should Stop Believing Right Now appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Getting old has few benefits, but the occasional senior travel discount is one of them. Senior travelers can enjoy a wide range of discounts, but both availability and value vary substantially among different travel sectors and in different parts of the globe.

Typically, senior status starts at age 65 in the U.S. and at 60 in the rest of the world. Here’s where to look for a senior travel discount, and what you’ll get.

Airline Senior Travel Discount

Only two large airlines offer discounts to senior travelers: Southwest and British Airways.

Southwest offers senior fares on most flights for those 65 and over—but some senior fares can still be much higher than the cheapest ones available to travelers of any age. On a sample Sacramento to Chicago flight two months in advance, for example, the cheapest ticket available to travelers of any age is $169, compared with the $287 senior travel discount fare. But, for flights just two days in advance, the senior fare is still $287, while other travelers’ cheapest option is $348. Southwest’s senior travel discount is a good deal for airfare booked closer to departure.

British Airways offers round-trip senior travel discounts of $65 in economy and premium economy and $200 in business class to AARP members who book through the AARP website. Both are available to anyone age 50 or over. The $60 discount on an economy ticket is fairly attractive, but it’s worth noting that British Airways is known to have an inferior business class compared to its major competitors.

Rail Senior Travel Discount

Amtrak offers 10 percent discounts to senior travelers for coach travel on most trains, but the discount does not apply to sleeper travel, business class, or most trips on Acela. Seniors get bigger discounts on some flash sales, and routinely get 50 percent discounts for Downeaster trains between Boston and Portland, Maine.

VIA Rail Canada offers 10 percent senior discounts to travelers 60 and over on most trains, including sleeper service. Often, however, the cheapest any-age ticket is less expensive than the lowest discounted senior fare.

In Europe, only Belgium and Portugal seem to offer senior travel discounts to those 60 or over on individual tickets for some trains. A senior travel discount is also available on first-class British and French rail passes, but any-age passes in second class are cheaper. Rail systems in Britain, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain sell annual railcards that offer discounts of 15 percent to 50 percent on individual tickets to seniors age 60 or over. Rail pass prices can vary greatly, but the Italian card is free to seniors age 75 or over. You typically can’t buy European rail cards online in advance, so plan to buy on arrival.

Public Transit Senior Travel Discount

Many transit systems in U.S. cities offer senior travel discounts to people age 65 and over, but the amount will vary. You can find lots of options for about 50 percent off, and rides are free for seniors in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. Regional suburban rail systems in several cities also offer senior deals. In recent years, however, big destinations including Boston, Chicago, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington no longer accept a Medicare card as I.D. for eligibility and instead require that seniors apply in person at a local transit office for senior I.D. issued by the transit system. Check with the city transit system’s website for details.

The U.S. seems to be unique in offering widespread senior transit deals: Only a few Canadian cities do, and there are very few in European or Asian hubs. Australian senior discounts are limited to local residents.

Hotel Senior Travel Discount

Large U.S. hotel chains and independent hotels alike typically offer a small senior travel discount of about 10 percent. Qualifying minimum ages range from 50 years (for AARP members and sometimes others) to 65. To take advantage of senior travel discounts, most chains now require that you book directly rather than through an online travel agency.

Other Senior Travel Discount Opportunities

Cruise lines and tour operators don’t routinely offer senior discounts, though some have deals with AARP that can include dollars off or extras tacked on. The Avis family (Avis, Budget, Payless, and Zipcar) offers AARP members discounts of 10 to 25 percent off rental rates. Greyhound buses offer a modest senior discount of five percent.

More from SmarterTravel:

• The Best Times to Book for Cruise Savings, by Destination
• 7 Safety Tips for Senior Travelers
• 6 Saving Secrets for Senior Travel

Consumer advocate Ed Perkins has been writing about travel for more than three decades. The founding editor of the Consumer Reports Travel Letter, he continues to inform travelers and fight consumer abuse every day at SmarterTravel.

The post The Best Senior Travel Discounts, and Where to Find Them appeared first on SmarterTravel.

For most travelers, a city-to-city bus journey is the lowest option on the transportation ladder. Buses are usually dirty and crowded, get stuck in traffic, bump and sway, and are slow. They’re for those on a budget, only—but that may be quickly changing, thanks to sleeper buses.

Greyhound and MegaBus express options have long serviced much of the country with low, advance-purchase fares that are sometimes faster, and typically much cheaper, than Amtrak—although both set an admittedly low bar. Most trips offer onboard bathrooms, Wi-Fi, seating in pairs, electrical outlets, and little legroom or seat width to work with.

But not all buses are like that now. New bus lines operating luxury or lie-flat sleeper buses offer accommodations and services far beyond what Amtrak, airlines, or other bus lines can.

Sleeper Buses: “Moving Hotels”

A new service called Cabin is offering lie-flat sleeper buses overnight between Los Angeles and San Francisco. Trips in either direction leave at 11:00 p.m. and arrive at about 7:00 a.m., give or take traffic. Cabin’s sleeper buses feature cubicles on each side of an aisle, stacked two high and equipped with full foam mattresses and bedding. Cubicles are 75 inches long, 25 inches high, and 26 to 31 inches wide, with individually controlled air conditioning, electrical outlets, privacy light shades, and USB ports. Vertical space is so limited that all you can do in one is lie back and maybe read a little or work on a computer or tablet. If you want to be more vertical, Cabin’s buses also have small lounge areas for use before/after sleeping. Cabin buses, which it calls “moving hotels,” also provide onboard snacks, a restroom, and Wi-Fi. The fare is $115 each way.

A contributor to the blog The Points Guy tried Cabin, and found everything to be shipshape and as advertised. He also found, however, that sleeping wasn’t easy due to constant highway curves and bumps.

When a Sleeper Bus Is Worth It

Paying $115 for a trip you can make on Southwest for less than $50 doesn’t initially sound like an attractive value proposition. But the $115 bus fare covers an overnight accommodation that would likely cost you at least $100 in either Los Angeles or San Francisco. In fact, Cabin is re-creating what was once a very common travel model, especially among business travelers before the 1950s: Leave a city late evening, climb aboard a sleeping car on a train, and arrive at your destination the next morning in time for another day’s business. For the most part, Amtrak doesn’t run trains like that anymore, although a few overnight segments on Amtrak’s long haul routes allow similar schedules in limited cases. Amtrak’s single daily Los Angeles to San Francisco trip, however, is by day.

You can identify dozens of routes where the Cabin concept would be feasible, at least from a scheduling standpoint. Whether the concept will succeed as a product concept, however, remains an open question.

Luxury Bus Options

Lots of bus companies install leather seats into what would otherwise be a conventional bus arrangement and call it “luxury.” By my measure, however, a true luxury bus has roomier seating, with only three total seats per row—two on one side of the aisle, one on the other—and extended legroom. Here are several lines that meet that standard:

• LimoLiner runs several daily round-trips between Boston and New York. Trips take just over four hours, which is essentially the same time as Amtrak’s Northeast Regional trains and about a half hour slower than the Acela Express. Fares start at $79, which is higher than Amtrak’s starting point of $49 on Northeast Regionals, but cheaper than Acela’s $120. LimoLiners offer Wi-Fi, mobile phone service, snacks or a light meal, an onboard restroom, and an attendant.
• Vonlane runs a similar service linking Dallas, Ft. Worth, Austin, Houston, and San Antonio, plus College Station for football games. Dallas to Houston trips take three hours, 45 minutes, with fares starting at $100 each way. As with LimoLiner, flying may be cheaper and faster, but slightly less convenient.
• RedCoach has a first class bus option on routes linking Miami with Tallahassee via either Orlando or Tampa. Miami to Tallahassee fares start at $67 each way. There’s no Amtrak service to Tallahassee, and the first class bus fare is less than half of what you’d pay to fly—making this option a worthwile one.
• Vamoose Bus Gold Buses operate several daily trips each way between New York City and the Washington, D.C. area (Bethesda, Arlington, or Lorton). One-way fares start at $40: A lot less than Amtrak or flying.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 8 Travel Luxuries Even Cheap People Should Splurge On
• What Customer Rights Do Hotel Guests Have? Not Many
• Congressman Introduces Passenger Bill of Rights Legislation

Consumer advocate Ed Perkins has been writing about travel for more than three decades. The founding editor of the Consumer Reports Travel Letter, he continues to inform travelers and fight consumer abuse (including hotel guest rights) every day at SmarterTravel.

The post Are These Luxe Sleeper Buses Better than Flying? appeared first on SmarterTravel.