Easy Ways To Avoid Disaster When Traveling

BY  Sibashree Mar 13, 2025

Banff, home to the towering Rocky Mountains, is a true Canadian treasure. It has endless hiking trails and breathtaking natural beauty at every turn.  Further, tourism in Banff is centered around Banff National Park, a part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Also, tourism is the main economic driver of this Canadian town, with Banff National Park having around 4 million visitors every year.  Moreover, as a hub of adventure and outdoor activities, natural abundance, and biodiversity, Banff is a crown jewel in the tourism landscape of Canada.  However, Banff is not a popular choice for travelers who adhere to a shoestring budget.  On average, a one-week trip to Banff will cost you around $750-1000.  Having said that, it’s time to break the myth and explore Banff on a budget as a local.  In this Tour and Travel Blog, I will discuss how you can explore the charm of Banff on a fixed budget.  Our practical tips will help you plan your trip, find budget-friendly accommodation, and have the best adventure experience without overshooting your budget.  Banff On A Budget: Planning The Trip Right Exploring Banff on a budget starts with planning the travel itineraries and activities right. Planning involves knowing the right time to visit Banff, choosing the right transportation options, and knowing the free or budget-friendly attractions in the city.  Here you go!  Choose The Right Time To Visit Banff On A Budget  If you want to explore Banff on a budget, you have to choose the best time to visit. September to October and April to May are the ideal seasons to visit Banff, as travel costs and lodging expenses are usually lesser in these months.  Further, if you travel during these months, you can avoid the summer population or the surge of visitors to the natural sights in Banff.  Also, if you are visiting Banff in winter, you can schedule your trips during off-peak dates. Moreover, you will find affordable opportunities to enjoy Banff's ski areas if you secure lodging early and purchase the non-peak ski passes.    Transportation Options From Calgary To Banff   You must start your journey from Calgary to explore Banff on a budget. You can find the following economical transportation options from Calgary to Banff.  Banff Airporter It is perfect for Samesun Banff guests, and Banff Airporter offers 15% off on round-trip rides.  On-It Regional Transit It operates $10 one-way trips from downtown Calgary on weekends and public holidays.   Rider Express You can take a Rider Express direct bus from Calgary Airport for just $47.62 one way.  Moose Travel Network Moose Travel Network offers affordable day tours and transportation to popular spots like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.   Things To Do In Banff On A Budget   The natural beauty of Banff will never disappoint you if you want to explore the town on a budget.  Further, Banff's hiking trails and wildlife offer you affordable recreational opportunities and service-free activities.    Take Part In The Budget-Friendly Outdoor Activities In Banff National Park   As I mentioned earlier, Banff National Park is at the epicenter of tourism in Banff. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the first national park in Canada and third in the world, offers you many free attractions and activities.  The free hiking trails, like the ones leading to Johnston Canyon, Tunnel Mountain, and Sulphur Mountain, offer breathtaking vistas.  Further, you will meet Lake Louise here. You can walk along the lake's border or enjoy your aquatic pursuit in a rented canoe.  Moreover, Banff National Park is the hub of wild animals such as deer, bears, and elk. Watching them from a safe distance will be a lifetime experience.   Tour And Travel Note You will get food and drinks at the park kiosks. However, you must pack your drinks and snacks and bring reusable bottles because these items are pricey. Explore These Places To Visit In Banff On A Budget  Are you planning to explore Banff on a budget? These are the places you must visit.  Banff Park Museum Banff Park Museum is the best place to learn about the history and wildlife of the national park and the entire region.  Further, you will only have to pay $4.5 to enter the museum.   Cave And Basin National Historic Site Cave And Basin National Historic Site is another budget-friendly attraction in Banff. Here, you will learn about Banff's historical background, including the town and natural hot springs.  Downtown Stroll If you want to soak in the cultural vibrance of Banff, you can take a walk along Banff Avenue.  Here, you will find street performers on Banff Avenue. You can even enjoy the view of the mountains and indulge in shopping here.  Choose Affordable Dining Options Near Samesun Banff   Banff has many affordable dining options, such as the Samesun Banff in-house The Beaver Bar. Further, you can have coffee or grab quick bites at local cafes and eateries.  Some local places to eat in Banff are Wild Flour Bakery and Melissa’s Missteak.   Moreover, you can cook your meals in Samesun’s guest kitchen and dine picnic-style in nature to make your trip more budget-friendly.   Look For Discounts And Deals To Visit Banff On A Budget   Samesun Banff and many other hotels in Banff partner with local transit and tour operators to offer exclusive discounts to guests.  Ask the front desk for access to promotions, such as discounted shuttle services or free tourism perks like guided hikes to explore Banff on a budget.  Samesun Banff Hostel: Your Affordable Accommodation   The following aspects make Samesun Banff the ideal budget-friendly accommodation option:  Free Breakfast: Start every morning with a complimentary meal.   Affordable Bar & Restaurant: The Beaver Bar onsite offers cheap meals and drinks for hostel guests.   Free WiFi: Stay connected without any extra costs.   Fully Equipped Kitchen: Save on dining by prepping your meals in the shared guest kitchen.   Social Common Room: Meet fellow adventurers during your stay.   Laundry Facilities: Adding more value for backpackers and road trippers.    Making The Most Of Your Stay In Banff The goal of budget travel in Banff reaches beyond financial savings to achieve better experiences.  Tips for Saving Money While in Banff   During peak summer, use Banff's free public transport options, such as free shuttles, to access popular spots like Moraine Lake.   Further, you must bring your hiking gear, reusable utensils, and water bottles to avoid renting or purchasing these items.   Moreover, split tour costs with other travelers or join group activities organized by Samesun Banff to reduce your expenses.  Banff On A Budget: Book Your Stay at Samesun Banff Hostel   Banff remains among those must-visit destinations in Canada. Further, you can now explore Banff on a budget by following the tips I have shared here.  Moreover, you can plan a stay at Samesun Banff Hostel to save money on lodgings. Also, the hostel's central location ensures easy walking or shuttle access to Banff’s main attractions, reducing transportation costs. In addition, Banff delivers unlimited outdoor possibilities for those who want to explore the Rockies by hiking or socializing with other travelers.  So, what are you waiting for? Book your stay at Banff international hostel today and start planning your dream budget-friendly getaway! 

BY  Sibashree Sep 8, 2025

Yes, travel anxiety is normal. From a family trip to a business trip, travel anxiety happens. Being a traveler and travel blog editor, it still happens to me!  Also, the other day, I was reading a report on Newsweek about how Gen Z travelers on business trips feel super anxious. The report says,  “A new survey conducted by Ipsos U.K. and commissioned by American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT) found that while 70 percent of Gen Z employees aged 18 to 28 look forward to traveling for work, more than half called the experience stressful.” Nevertheless, referring to where I started, every kind of trip can be stressful, especially if you are like me, who has to take care of the itinerary, all the bookings, and other stuff. I, in fact, feel more stressed before traveling with my family, as for business travels, there is at least some assistance from my office.  So, for everyone, traveling is not as romantic as you may feel it is. Just the thought of being in a foreign location and not knowing anything—or knowing anyone—can bring about a lot of anxiety. It also doesn’t help to know that hundreds of things can go wrong during your trip. But travelling doesn’t have to be a pain because there are ways to avoid travel stress. From booking all inclusive holidays Thailand Phuket, to preparing yourself mentally, here are some tried-and-tested travel tips on how to handle travel stress.  How To Handle Travel Stress? It Starts With Traveling The Way You Want To… See, there has been a paradigm shift in the way we travel these days, and this I am speaking from my personal experience. There are so many Instagram stories, reels, or moodboards playing in our heads that we create a vague image of what is ideal.  But in reality, if you are not on a business trip, you don’t really need to fit in. You don’t need to have a bucket list of visiting XYZ places because everyone else is doing the same. Your plan of a vacation can be about sitting in a quaint cafe in Europe and having the best pastries and sandwiches there.  It’s absolutely okay! You really need to let it loose and indulge in the spirit of slow tourism where every moment spent is meaningful and cherishable for you.  That’s the best mantra I can give you on how to handle travel stress.  1. Always Plan Ahead “Failing to plan is planning to fail,” so the famous adage says—and it couldn’t be truer when travelling. From choosing the right destination to booking the right flights, having a good plan will not only make travelling a lot easier for you, but it will also keep you from mishaps that are costly and very stressful.  Always be realistic with your timelines when planning. For instance, when booking flights, make sure that you give yourself enough time to get to the airport, given your location.  If you’re departing from a busy airport, it’s best to book an earlier flight, so you can avoid the rush. If you have a layover, make sure that you have at least three hours free until your next flight to make room for possible delays that could make you miss your connecting flight. 2. Don’t DIY Your Trip If You’re Not That Type Of Person Here’s the thing: DIY isn’t for everyone, and that speaks true when travelling. Suppose you’re someone who has a hard time putting a grocery list together. Planning an itinerary can be extra stressful for you.  Thankfully, you don’t have to because there are all-inclusive options for many hotels and resorts around the world.  These packages already include everything from airport transfers to meals and activities. Yes, these are a little pricey; however, they reduce your stress.  3. Make Sure That You’re Mentally Prepared For The Trip Travel is beneficial for your mental health. However, it can also be the salve to your panic and anxiety when you are not prepared for it.  Many of us assume that travel preparation includes simply arranging airfare and packing bags. However, we must realize that travel equals experiencing a new destination, which takes us out of our comfort zone and routine.  So, before we completely lose ourselves in the disarray of travel preparation, it is really important to give ourselves time to prepare mentally for the trip. In addition to proper planning, be sure to squeeze in some familiar routines or activities in your travel schedule. For example, I am a coffee and bread person. So, I will not miss visiting the local coffee shop. However, I always look for a coffee shop near my hotel. Equally important, be sure to avoid last-minute preparation. For example, don’t pack your luggage the night before your early morning flight. It is a guaranteed way to make you tired and stressed before you even get on the airplane.  I make sure that everything is ready at least a day or two in advance. I need to relax and get some well-deserved rest before the trip! 4. Plan Activities To Keep You Entertained During The Boring Moments I still hate waiting at the airports. However, I don’t get as anxious as before about long flight delays. However, I have seen people getting fidgety and stressed on long flights.  I mastered the art of avoiding long-flight anxieties as I started planning travel activities for my daughter. I told myself, “If this little human can have activities planned for the flight, why not me?” So, now I carry my book and download the latest movie or series I want to watch. Of course, pack some snacks to keep my mind busy.  5. Keep Important Documents Protected Make sure to keep valuables in a secure bag. Additionally, it doesn’t hurt to take a scan of your documents. So have backup on your phone in case you lose your printed documents. So, always keep the emergency contact number of the country you are visiting handy. Travel safe! Read Also: What to Consider When Choosing Vacation Destinations For Families | A Travel Planning Guide Road Trip Ready: How To Manage Motion Sickness And Still Enjoy The Ride Ultimate Guide to Stress-Free Holiday Travel

BY  Sibashree Dec 18, 2024

Located in California,  Sequoia National Park is famous as the home to giant sequoia trees. It is home to the General Sherman Tree, the largest one in the world by volume. Further, it has famous landmarks like Kings Canyon.  No wonder that the California National Park is flocked by millions of visitors every year. You can enjoy a drive in the park and enjoy its scenic beauty. However, the best thing to do here is explore the park on foot. Only then will you be able to discover the waterfalls, the true hidden gems.  In this context, I must speak of the Tokopah Falls, the tallest in the park. Moreover, the park houses many prominent hiking destinations, like the route to Mount Whitney.  So, do you want to know more about the things you can do at the Sequoia National Park? Here is a Tour and Travel guide. Fun Things To Do At Sequoia National Park: Exploring Nature And Its Wonders At Your Own Pace Spread across an area of 1,635 km2, Sequoia National Park in California is a melting pot for many things. You will find the largest mountains, canyons, and falls in one place.  The best time to visit Sequoia National Park is between June to September. Exploring the sequoia groves is comfortable during these months.  Nevertheless, irrespective of the season you visit Sequoia National Park, you must not miss the following fun things. 1. Hike To The General Sherman Tree There is always a huge queue near the General Sherman Tree. The tallest in the world, this tree comes with a height of 275 feet. Further, it has a width of 36 feet.  Tourists gather around this gigantic tree to take photographs, and from there, they take an uphill road.  Nevertheless, to reach the General Sherman Tree, you will need to start your journey from the trailhead on Wolverton Road. The route is known as the Main Trail. As you advance in the trail, you will have to walk through the Giant Forest Area, where you will see the tallest sequoia trees and get to learn about their history.  2. Drive Along the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway This spring or summer, you can enjoy a scenic drive by the Kings Canyon Byway. Here, the drive amidst the giant sequoia trees is a surreal experience. Further, on your way, you will find the Boyden Cavern.  Boyden Cavern is a hidden gem in Sequoia National Park and as you enter the cave, you will find the presence of stalagmites and stalactites. A drive through the Kings Canyon Byway is full of twists and turns. So, it is a great pursuit for adventurous souls. It starts outside Fresno and takes you to the Sequoia National Park after a drive through the Grant Grove Area.  On your way, you can stop at spots like the Grizzly Falls and Boyden Cavern.  Tour And Travel Note:The Kings Canyon Scenic Byway was closed due to a devastating fire condition earlier in 2024. Please check with the park authority before you plan this drive at Sequoia National Park.  3. Visiting The Grant Grove Village Within walking distance from the Great Grant Tree, you will reach Grant Grove Village. It has a visitor center. The Great Grant Tree is the second-largest sequoia tree in the world. It is more popular as the Nation’s Christmas Tree, the name given by President Calvin Coolidge in 1926.  Further, the village stands out because of the Grant Grove Restaurant. The Grant Grove Restaurant here serves the best lunch, dinner, and even breakfast. Food here is yum and they are all prepared using locally-grown ingredients.  Moreover, you can buy beer, wine, and grocery essentials from here. Also, if you are interested in local arts and crafts, you can collect the best souvenirs from here.  4. Camping At Sequoia National Park Camping is the best thing to do at Sequoia National Park if you want to enjoy the best of Sequoia National Park. At Sequoia National Park, camping will cost you between $32 to $80 based on the number of people in a camping group. Further, you will find 14 campsites in the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park combined area. In addition, two of the campsites here are open across all seasons.  Some campgrounds at Sequoia National Park are: Lodgepole and Giant Forest Campgrounds Foothills Campgrounds Lodgepole and Giant Forest Campgrounds, etc.  Camping at Sequoia National Park comes with strict fire restrictions and other regulations. You must adhere to them.  5. Hiking To The Tokopah Falls Tokopah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Sequoia National Park. However, this waterfall, with a height of 1200 feet offers amazing views from different viewpoints because of how it proceeds through cragged routes. It does not fall straight like a curtain like many other waterfalls.  However, to reach the Tokopah Falls, you will have to complete a hike of around 3.5 miles. It is an easy route and even suitable for children and beginners. To see the waterfall in its full glory, you will have to visit the waterfall in spring or early summer. In this season, the waterfall is fed by snow-melted water from the mountains. As we approach the fall season, the flow of water in the fall becomes weaker or thinner.  Nevertheless, the fall looks beautiful in every season, with gigantic trees and gray rocks surrounding it.  6. Enjoying The Peaceful View Of The Crescent Meadow Taking a walk along the Crescent Meadow is one of the most peaceful things to do at Sequoia National Park in California. Once you reach Moro Rock or the Crescent Meadow Road, you will find the Crescent Meadow in the end. However, you will have to walk for 1.5 miles to reach the grassy meadow, and the lush greenery here will make you forget about the fatigue of hiking. In addition, the wildflowers in the meadow will offer you the warmest welcome.  This hiking trail is easy to conquer and ideal for travelers who want to explore the park at their own pace. Are you looking for more exciting things to do at Sequoia National Park? You can hike to Moro Rock or visit the Giant Forest.  Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.