Updated May 2026. Every tool on this page is one we actually use and recommend. Links marked with ✈️ 🏨 🎒 are affiliate links — you pay nothing extra and we earn a small commission that keeps WanderSteals running.
✈️ Flights — Find the Cheapest Fares
| Tool | Best For | Our Take |
|---|---|---|
| Aviasales | Cheapest raw fares | Best prices from Australian airports — always check here first |
| Kiwi.com | Flexible / multi-city | Brilliant for nomad routing and mix-and-match airlines |
| Skyscanner | Whole-month search | “Cheapest month” view is gold for flexible travellers |
| WayAway Plus | Cashback on flights | Get up to 10% cashback on every booking — stacks with other deals |
🏨 Hotels & Hostels — Budget Beds Done Right
| Tool | Best For | Our Take |
|---|---|---|
| Booking.com | Hotels worldwide | Largest inventory — free cancellation on most rooms |
| Hotellook | Price comparison | Compares 70+ booking sites at once — often beats Booking.com |
| Hostelworld | Hostels & dorms | Best hostel database for solo backpackers in SE Asia & Europe |
🎒 Tours & Activities — Skip the Tourist Traps
GetYourGuide
Best tours, skip-the-line tickets, and day trips. Free cancellation on most bookings.
Viator
Huge range of experiences worldwide. Great for last-minute bookings with verified reviews.
🚌 Getting Around — Trains, Buses & Car Hire
| Tool | Best For | Our Take |
|---|---|---|
| 12Go Asia | Trains & buses in Asia | Essential for Thailand, Vietnam, Bali — book buses, trains & ferries |
| RentalCars | Car hire worldwide | Compares all major rental companies — best for NZ & Europe road trips |
| DiscoverCars | Car hire with full coverage | Often cheaper than RentalCars with better included insurance |
🛡️ Travel Insurance & Flight Compensation
Ekta Travel Insurance
Affordable cover for Aussie travellers. Covers medical, cancellation, luggage and more. Don’t travel without it.
Compensair
Flight delayed or cancelled? Claim up to €600 compensation. They work on no-win no-fee basis.
WanderSteals earns a small commission when you book through our links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend tools we actually use. Thanks for supporting independent travel journalism! 🙏