12 Ways to Avoid Staying in a Bad Hostel in 2025

12 Ways to Avoid Staying in a Bad Hostel in 2025

I love hostels. Even after over nineteen years traveling the world, I still stay in hostels because they’re the best way to meet people and the cheapest accommodation option in much of the world. But what makes a good hostel? And how do you avoid a bad hostel? After staying in over a thousand hostels […]

How to Travel for Cheap (or Free) in 2025

How to Travel for Cheap (or Free) in 2025

Whenever I ask readers what the number one thing holding them back from traveling is, I almost always get the same answer: money. This problem — and how to overcome it — is my most asked question. “Matt, I don’t know how to afford travel. Help!” I have answered this question in a plethora of […]

Your Guide to Packing in 2025

Your Guide to Packing in 2025

What I carry in my bag has changed a lot over the years. Most of that change has to do with the fact that I now carry a lot of gear related to blogging, but it also reflects that I’ve learned a lot about packing since I first hit the road in 2006. I’ve learned […]

Everyone Says I’m Running Away

Everyone Says I’m Running Away

When I first started traveling, my dad used to ask what I’m running away from with my travels. Another time, a commenter told me to stop running away from my problems and to start living life. “Grow up,” he said. And, years ago, there was even a blog called “Mom says I’m running away.” I’m […]

Come See Me on Book Tour!

Come See Me on Book Tour!

I’m going on a book tour! My next book, How to Travel the World on $75 a Day, is coming out on March 25th and I’m going on a book tour to talk about it and the current state of travel! This is my first book tour in six years and I’m very excited to […]

My New Book on Budget Travel is Now Available!

My New Book on Budget Travel is Now Available!

Today is the day! My new book, How to Travel the World on $75 a Day, is out NOW! (Woo! Hoo!) This newly updated edition of my New York Times best-selling book will help you travel on a budget. The last edition of the book came out in 2017 and, since then, a lot has […]

Exploring Artis Amsterdam Royal Zoo

Exploring Artis Amsterdam Royal Zoo

Introduction to Artis Amsterdam Royal Zoo Artis Amsterdam Royal Zoo, founded in 1838, stands as one of the oldest zoos in Europe, seamlessly merging the wonders of wildlife with a rich historical backdrop. Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam, this zoo is not only a sanctuary for a diverse range of animals but also a […]

VPNs in the Netherlands: The ultimate 2025 guide

VPNs in the Netherlands: The ultimate 2025 guide

The Netherlands’ fastest and most reliable VPNs enable you to protect your privacy online, access region-locked content, and securely browse the net. 🤳 Whether you’re looking to access foreign streaming services or stay private on public Wi-Fi, a VPN is one of the handiest tools money can buy. Why? Well, in addition to boosting your […]

Amsterdam to Frankfurt by ICE International Train (Complete Guide)

Amsterdam to Frankfurt by ICE International Train (Complete Guide)

Traveling from Amsterdam to Frankfurt by train is a fast, comfortable and a greener alternative to flying. The ICE International high-speed train connects the two cities directly via Düsseldorf and Cologne in around 4 hours. The ICE International train service runs every 2 hours and offers centre-to-centre convenience and no airport-style check-in or security lines. […]