16 money tools I use for travel in 2025

I take travel seriously. Not just the destinations, but how I fund it.

For me, travel isn’t something I plan for once a year. It’s part of my lifestyle. Over the years, I’ve built systems that make it easier and more rewarding. These are not “travel hacks.” They are real tools I use to manage, save, and spend intentionally while exploring the world.

Here are the money tools that help me travel well in 2025.

💳 Credit Cards and Payment Systems

1. American Express Platinum

My go-to for booking flights and hotels. The lounge access, travel insurance, and benefits make every trip smoother.

2. Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite

Perfect for international spending with no foreign transaction fees and great travel rewards.

3. Wise

My favorite global travel card. I use it to hold and spend in multiple currencies at the real exchange rate. Sign up HERE.

4. Apple Wallet or Google Pay

I store my cards, loyalty memberships, and boarding passes in one place for quick access while traveling.

5. You Need A Budget (YNAB)

The app that keeps my travel spending organized and clear. It helps me see exactly where my money is going.

6. Pesa

I love this app because it allows me transfer money seamlessly between countries. That vendor in Dubai, India or Mexico I need to pay? Easy. Sign up HERE and get $20.

💰 Banking and Savings

8. A Dedicated Travel Account

I have one account just for travel and move a set amount into it each month. When I’m ready to book, the funds are already there.

9. EQ Bank

High-yield savings accounts that help my money grow while I plan upcoming trips.

🧾 Cashbacks and Rewards

10. Rakuten

My go-to cashback platform. I always check it before booking flights, hotels, or buying travel essentials. I’ve earned over $3,000 from the platform. Sign up with my code below and you’ll get $30 cash back for joining. Sign up HERE.

11. Honey

A browser extension that automatically applies cashback and discounts while shopping online. Similar to Rakuten but for other everyday spend.

✈️ Flights and Booking Tools

12. Skyscanner

My favorite flight tracker. I set alerts and let deals come to me.

13. Google Flights

Best for flexible date searches and quick price comparisons.

14. Expedia

I love that I can get Expedia rewards (called One Key) as cash towards a hotel I book on the website.

15. Travelpayouts

Great for creators who want to earn affiliate income by recommending flights or hotels. Sign up HERE.

🧳 Insurance and Protections

16. SafetyWing

Yeah, travel insurance is a money tool, too. Flexible travel insurance that fits the lifestyle of frequent travelers and creators. Love that you can buy insurance even while you are on the trip. Great for those who sometimes forget. Buy it HERE.

Conclusion

Travel has taught me that financial clarity is a form of freedom. These tools keep me organized, intentional, and in control no matter where I am in the world.

Luxury, to me, is having the freedom to say yes to experiences that matter, and the systems to make that possible.