Unique Things To Do In Phoenix: Enjoying The Sun And Warmth Year Round (Approved By A Local Travel Expert)

BY  Sibashree Sep 5, 2025

Looking for Topsail Island vacation rentals can be a very complicated process, but it doesn’t have to be that way. From finding the most affordable time to go to choosing the right rental, there is a lot to cover. Luckily, we’re here to make that process a little easier on you. If it sounds like finding an affordable beach rental is too good to be true, think again. When you do a little digging, you can actually find a lot of options that are budget-friendly.  In fact, you won’t necessarily need to even compromise on the entertainment or proximity to the water. Knowing these tips and tricks is half the battle. In this article, we spill the secrets to an affordable coastal getaway. If you’ve been dreaming of a vacation on Topsail Island, NC, read on and discover the plethora of options that are right under your nose. Let’s get started on this strategic approach to booking affordable Topsail Beach rentals. Beat The Crowds By Booking Topsail Island Vacation Rentals Smartly Everyone aims for beach getaways during the summer months. You can beat the crowds and get more affordable Topsail Beach rentals by booking during the off-season.  By avoiding prime time, you can still bask in great weather without the competition of the summer. Try booking your trip for September and enjoy a summer getaway all to yourself. Another way to score an affordable coastal getaway is to look for strategic ways to book your trip. For example, when you book shorter stays at Topsail Beach rentals, you can often find greater affordability in rental options.  A 3-day or 5-day stay may be cheaper than a week-long stay, particularly in the off-season. You can also talk with a travel agent directly to see if there are any discounts or promotions that may be in place during the time you want to travel. Utilize your resources to find new ways to save. Utilize Local Help And Be Flexible While there’s no harm in browsing the big-name websites for travel booking Topsail Beach rentals, you can also search up local agencies to find property options that may not even be listed on major rental websites.  By working with local agents directly, you can find Topsail Island-specific properties that may be within your budget. Be open to different property types to increase your options, and find spaces to stay with different perks like ocean access, hot tubs, etc. Save While You Enjoy Your Trip If you’re smart with your expenses, you can book your Topsail Beach rentals coastal getaway without breaking the bank.  Rather than budgeting for dining out, opt for cooking your meals at the rental you book. With these savings, you might choose to upgrade your rental or just enjoy knowing you've saved while still enjoying a beach vacation. Another way to save and enjoy your coastal getaway is to buy all of your beach gear and related swimwear necessities beforehand.  Local shops often charge more for essentials like beach towels, sunscreens, etc. Bring your own from home to avoid spending more than you need and keep your vacation more affordable. Choose A Different View To Save More Consider booking closer to the canals or the marsh areas to avoid spending extra on waterfront properties on the island. You can still head over to the ocean when you want to, but you can spend much less on your Topsail Beach rentals without oceanfront views.  You can also find properties inland that are cheaper with close proximity to the coastal areas as well. Consider the benefits of being closer to dining and entertainment than the water, including the costs you’ll save in doing so. Split The Cost Coastal getaway trips are often group get-togethers. See if you and your group are willing to stay in the same Topsail Island Vacation Rentals and split the cost.  You might find out that it’s cheaper to rent a condo and split the cost than it is to rent individual spaces. Contact local real estate agents marketing Topsail Island properties to see what’s available, and make your money work for you. Drive Instead Of Flying Flying can be a costly endeavor. You can save by driving to your coastal destination instead. Choose to see this component as a road trip and have even more fun on your vacation without spending extra on plane tickets.  Your Topsail Beach rentals will be there waiting for you when you arrive. If you do choose to fly, you can often find cheaper plane tickets, especially during the off-season, to make your trip more affordable.  With these savings, you may have more money to spend on your rental units or general entertainment while on your trip. Check Out Independent Listings Another way to save is to check out independent listings from property owners directly. Sometimes, people rent out their summer houses and other properties on ad placement websites and secondary travel sources online.  You might find an affordable hidden gem with access to the water by booking Topsail Beach vacation rentals this way.  You may even be able to work out a deal with individual owners, such as a reduced rate on the property if you’re willing to do the cleaning after your trip.  Local property owners may be flexible in their terms and be willing to work with your budget if you’re open to chipping in. Bungalow and cabin communities may also be open to these arrangements if you’re looking for an affordable vacation option.  You might consider subletting a property for a cheaper rate if there are local options available to you on independent listings. Strategically Plan Your Next Trip The secret to an affordable coastal getaway is to put on your thinking cap. Booking during the offseason and finding other strategic ways to save can set you on track to finding an affordable Topsail Island Vacation Rentals that works for your vacation plans.  Consider the above suggestions as you start the process of planning your next trip on Topsail Island.

BY  Sharmita Apr 12, 2019

How to choose a backpack? If this is the question on your mind, this is a guide for you.   There is no single model that is right for everyone because it depends on how you will be using it. Also, bags come in a variety of shapes, colors, and materials.  So, it’s also about your preference.  The other determining factor is the amount of stuff that you need to carry. The backpack that you choose should fit perfectly, and the suspension system should be able to handle the weight you will carry. Do you want a more detailed insight? Let’s discuss How To Choose A Backpack? Smart Tour And Travel Tips You Will Love Backpacking trips in the USA are ideal for exploring the vast landscapes, wildlife, and nature of the country. However, backpacking trips need proper planning, and it all begins with finding out how to choose a backpack and the right gear.  Choosing the right backpack is a lot about customization. You also need to understand the particular trip you are going to take and the specific conditions of a destination. Nevertheless, to begin with, you can consider the following points on how to choose a backpack.  1. Selecting The Right Volume You will get different sizes of backpacks on the market. These sizes range from small, to medium and even large sizes. You need to determine whether the amount of space that your backpack has can accommodate the stuff you will be carrying.  Most backpack manufacturers state the volume of these products in liters. For instance, the capacity of an overnight backpack can range somewhere between 30 to 50 liters. It depends on whether you are a more traditional or minimalist backpacker. How To Choose A Backpack? The Minimalist Vs. Traditional Backpacker Minimalist backpackers choose light and compact gear and will sacrifice some stuff that other people will consider to be necessary during the travel.  On the contrary, traditional backpackers will choose a big backpack because they will need to carry nearly everything they want to use while in transit.  You will also need a larger backpack during winter for carrying additional clothing. If you are coming with your kids, you may want to carry an even bigger backpack.  You can further convert the volume from liters to square inches. Any method can work, and most manufacturers will provide you with both so that you can choose the one that works well.  You will need more fuel and food if you will be staying out for an extended period. The nature of the trip will also determine the size of the backpack. In case you get wet, you will be required to change your clothes.  You may also be required to carry along a stove, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, and a tent when you are camping. Therefore, the volume plays a critical role in how to choose a backpack. 2. Determine the Right Torso Size The backpack that you choose should match your individual torso length.  To determine the right size, reach to the behind of your neck, bend the head forward, and then find the C7 vertebra. It is the bone that sticks out the most on the upper spine.  The next step is locating your iliac crest. Let someone measure the distance between your C7 vertebra to the point of the neck that is at the same level as the iliac crest hip. This distance represents your torso length. The backpack will fit well when the distance that lies from the top of the shoulder strap to the belt hip can accommodate the length of the torso.  However, most backpacks have adjustable torso length, and hence, you can shorten or lengthen the distance between the hip belt and shoulder straps accordingly.  3. Choose The Right Suspension By now, you have determined the right torso size and volume on your backpack.  The next step is to make sure that you will be comfortable while wearing weight. The primary determinant for this feature is the suspension of the backpack.  For example, if you will be carrying thirty pounds of weight in your backpack using a flimsy hip belt, all this weight will fall on your shoulders and this may be painful after some time.  Several components will help you in choosing the right suspension for your backpack. These include hip belts, hip belt fit, molded hip belts, shoulder straps, strap fit, load-lifter straps, sternum straps, back panel, frame components, and frame sheet.  In case you have a heavy load, you will be required to have a substantial suspension. Make sure you confirm whether the suspension can accommodate your weight. Most manufacturers are kind enough to include these details on the backpack. 4. Adjusting The Fit This feature is critical when you want some guidance on how to choose a backpack.  It is so uncomfortable to wear a backpack that does not fit correctly. It is like wearing boots that do not fit you well.  These products may not be useful to you if they don’t fit well. The backpack that you choose should conform to your body well so that you can carry the weight on your hips and not your shoulders.  The torso length of your body has to be within the torso range of the backpack. The shoulder strap should also conform to your shoulder’s back.  The load filter straps of the bag must come up off at an angle of 45 degrees. The hip belt needs to cover your hip bones’ top (iliac crest).  Lastly, the hip belt should have the capacity to support most of the weight in the backpack. Make sure you can adjust your backpack to meet all these specifications. 5. Pockets And Components Of the Backpack Backpacks provide several sleeves, pockets, and compartments. Some people prefer a simple and streamlined backpack, while others want a product that has one major compartment.  You may want multiple compartments to place your water bottle, food, phone, and other small items. It is good to look for a backpack that has the main component and sleeping bag component.  The other pockets and components include the top lid, front pockets, side pockets and sleeves, and hip belt pockets.   The choice that you make exclusively depends on your lifestyle. The way you position different items in your backpack will determine the level of comfort.  Heavy items like fuel, stoves, food, and water should be at the vertical midpoint or even higher. You can carry the light items away from your body. The other important elements to consider are the shape of the backpack and the fabric.  The shape determines the freedom of motion and stability, while the fabric is a clear indication of the durability of the backpack.  The other things to look at include external frame parks, hydration compatibility, compressor straps, ski/board compatibility, spindrift collar, attachment points, and rain cover.  The Best Backpacking Trips In The USA For You The national parks of the USA are excellent for backpacking trips. Further, most of these national parks are ideal for the cheapest vacations in the US. 1. Grand Teton National Park Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming is one of the best backpacking travel destinations in the USA, thanks to its well-connectivity to various other parts of the country. Further, it is near the Jackson Hole Airport, making it more accessible for tourists. The park offers you the most amazing view of the Teton Range. You will also love its unique geology as you explore the hiking trails.  However, the Teton Range in the park is beyond mountains or unique geological formations. It has been the witness to human lives thriving here for over 11000 years. So, as you enjoy a backpacking trip in the Grand Teton National Park, you will learn stories of human connections.  2. Yosemite National Park Yosemite National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is most popular among Americans for stargazing and trekking activities.  Further, hiking is a popular outdoor activity here, allowing you to explore trails like the Mirror Lake Loop, Upper Yosemite Falls Trail, and Lower Yosemite Falls Trail.  Moreover, Yosemite National Park is home to many beautiful lakes and waterfalls. In addition, the granite domes and glacier features make this national park stand out.  Read Also: Your Business Trip and Your Diet Expert Tips for Earning Frequent Flyer Points for Travelling in Business Class Flights Helpful Tips On How You Can Save Money On A Yacht Charter Top 5 Mistakes To Avoid When Choosing A Catering Service For Your Event

BY  sagnika May 13, 2024

This is a call to action for all beach lovers! I am here with a list of nine beaches in Perth that will satisfy your urge to submerge yourself in the water and the activities that come with it. You will not be disappointed if you visit even one of these nine beaches. They are a collection of beaches with good views and different activities, including swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and scuba diving! Australia is known for its diversity in flora and fauna. If you are visiting Perth, they are a must. I am a mountain lover, but there is something in the sea and the wide expanse of the ocean that takes your breath away! Beaches are designed by nature to relax individuals into doing things they do not get time to do regularly. So, what is the best time to visit Australia? If you sit on the beach with a drink in hand and stare at people, you will have the best time of your life. I am also a reader, so if you spread your body along the white sand and read a book, I am sure you will have this relaxing memory for the rest of your life. 9 of the Best Beaches in Perth that You Must Visit So why are you looking for beaches in Perth? Did you know that, apart from Perth, other coastal areas in Australia, such as beaches in Sydney and Melbourne, are beautiful and worth visiting? Sometimes, even the locals need clarification about which one they should go to. The soft white sand is a visual treat, along with the crystal-clear water. When you think of a perfect day out, these beaches will rescue you. You can relax in the sun, and there are various services such as shelter, restrooms, shops, and food joints! Let me share with you some of my favorite beaches, which are not just visually appealing but also perfect for various purposes. Some of these beaches help you enjoy solitude, while others are perfect for a family picnic or romantic date. Leighton Beach This is my favorite beach in Perth, not just because it is dog-friendly but also because the stunning blue water takes my breath away. The stunning stretch of land is perfect for relaxing, going out to swim, and then grabbing coffee or a delicious bite of food. There is a place to eat, Wooden Wagon, in the dog beach area, which is people's favorite! Another place is Orange Box, where you can go ahead, pull out a deck chair close to the main car park, and enjoy the ambiance. If you are more of a wine person, a new place is opening called North Fremantle, which offers a variety of snacks along with a long-curated list of wines. Cottesloe Beach An iconic beach among all bountiful beaches, Cottesloe is mentioned as one of the significant beaches in Perth! To experience this beautiful beach for everyone, you must drive from Perth, which will take 20 minutes. This is the most popular beach in Perth—the locals call it Cott! Surrounded by vistas and coastlines, this beach has it all. Whether planning a family outing with your kids or a romantic beach date with your partner, you'll find everything you need to enjoy the ambiance. If you are a typical beach lover, this is it for you. Find a great spot, sit for a drink at the Cottesloe Beach Hotel, and enjoy the sunset while people-watching! You also cannot miss the Prego Italian restaurant if you love Italian food. Scarborough Beach Scarborough Beach is known for people-watching in Western Australia. You must check out this popular ocean oasis. It is the most iconic sandy spot surrounded by a high-rise cityscape. You can see hotels, cafes, surf shops, and restaurants all around the beaches! I can assure you that this beach is a premium destination, so you can easily experience sheltered and safe swimming conditions. The white sand and crystal-clear blue sea are perfect places to hang out with your friends, family, or partner. From The Lighthouse Cafe to the Whole Earth Cafe, you must check out these places for food. These are some of the coolest restaurants in Australia you must visit! Another significantly popular restaurant is The Kitchen at The Shack and Celeste, where people go to have some of the best beach drinks. City Beach One of the busiest beaches in Perth, City Beach is in an amazing place—in the center of the northern suburbs of Perth! Apart from swimming and snorkeling, you can spread your towel and relax with a book and sunglasses. Many families visit this beach, so this beach has a happy-go-lucky vibe! People are mostly in a festive mood when they see this beach. You will encounter a wide boardwalk with several restaurants and places to eat. Mullaloo Beach The Mullaloo beach is quite ideal for you if you have children! It is a popular spot for swimming so that you can take a dip in the ocean's calm waters. You will feel completely rejuvenated! You should also visit the locally operated restaurants and bars where you can get your food fix! Along with the food, you also need to be more aware of the surroundings. Hence, you can go to the beach to enjoy yourself. Floreat Beach If you want to get away from the crowd from Scarborough Beach or City Beach for a while, you can go to Floreat Beach, located across the stretch of sand to the south of Peasholm Dog Beach. There is also a gravel track, so you can access the beach at different points. There might be some swells of waves, you can go surfing here. Have some solitude when you hang out on this beach. Mettams Pool Located in the northern area of West Coast Highway, this beach is perfect for snorkeling enthusiasts! Mettams have shelters along with grass; hence, you can easily take shelter if the wind is strong. There are several cafes across the coast so that you can hang out there after snorkeling! Furthermore, the view is so scenic your heart will flutter. Additionally, the reef is so beautiful you can explore it all by yourself! Trigg Beach If you are a surfer, darling, you must visit the Trigg beach! You can visit anytime as a tourist, but the locals always head there when the weather is wild, and the waves swell skyward. For experienced surfers, that is an adventure. However, if you are still a beginner, avoid rough weather. The rough waves rip your boat apart, or surfers can touch the sky! Perth's experienced surfers rate this beach as one of the best, which means you might find a lot of crowds. It is the mecca of surfing and quite popular among the locals! Along with the solitude, you will also get the thrill of adventure. Coogee Beach If you are staying in Perth City, you must travel to Coogee Beach by car, which will take about 35 minutes. If you are planning to visit this beach, you must try the jetty jumps, apart from going on a jetty for fishing! It is also considered one of the best beaches in Australia! A huge area is covered in grass where you can organize your family picnic. In the beach environment, there is an abandoned power station that you can visit before you go to the beach. Finishing Off... In short, the beaches in Perth are worth checking out, especially if you are a white sand and blue water fan. Beaches in Perth are not just a place to hang out but also the identity of the place. The pristine coastline brings several beaches with white sand and turquoise sea water. I have always wondered how free it feels when we go to the beach! In addition, I am sure you will feel the same energy when you go to these beaches; I have made a list of them in this blog. Along with surfing, snorkeling, or swimming, you can have a picnic or a barbeque. Comment on what you think is important when visiting a beach and enjoying yourself. Learn More About: 10 Things You Have To Do When You Visit Australia 8 Beaches Of Melbourne, Australia Where You Can Cool Off 8 Best Places To Live In Australia For You If You Have A Family