Travel Tips & Resources

First time flyer?

There’s nothing quite like the excitement (and nerves) of your first time on an airplane. Whether you’re heading out on a dream vacation or taking a short business trip, flying can feel overwhelming if you’ve never done it before. But don’t worry—I’ve got your back. Here's a complete guide on packing, airport navigation, and in-flight comfort to ensure a stress-free travel experience.

Let's Pack...

Let’s be real—packing can be the most stressful part of a vacation. The biggest thing that helps me stay sane? A good packing list. Become a packing pro, check out my packing recommendations and avoid that last-minute packing-panic.

plan your trip!

Planning a vacation can be tough, but don't worry, I've got your back! I travel for a living and know all the best options and tips to make your vacation amazing and stress-free. I am a certified travel agent and you can use my services for FREE!

FLY FOR FREE WITH CREDIT CARD POINTS

I’m going to be very upfront: I am not a professional at the points game. I know some of you could read this and think, wow, she could’ve squeezed 10x more value by transferring points to X. That’s fine. This worked for me, I was happy with it, and I would absolutely do it again. If your goal is to fly for free with credit card points without turning it into a second job, this is a very realistic approach.
Booked this Bryson City yurt for the ‘ber months and it’s already my top fall pick this year. 🍂

The Junaluska Yurt sleeps six but feels more like a stylish cabin than a yurt, two real queen bedrooms with actual doors, a full kitchen, and a private bathroom with a walk-in shower. Check-in is just a door code texted to your phone, no lobby, no waiting.

The real win is outside: wraparound porch, private fire pit, free firewood, a gas grill, and Smoky Mountain sunsets that stop you mid-sentence, picture all of that with October color on the ridgeline. Heads up, the last stretch in is a gravel road, so skip the low-profile rental, and there’s no restaurant onsite, you’re minutes from Bryson City, Dillsboro, and Sylva for dinner.

Two to three nights is the sweet spot. (We actually stayed in the dead of winter and it was still stunning, fall just takes it up a notch.) Full review linked in bio.
One of my favorite travel seasons is almost here, and I have zero chill about it. 🍁✈️

There’s just something about fall trips cooler air, apple orchards, that first flannel of the season, food that actually makes sense with the weather again. I’m already mentally packing for it before September even starts.

If fall is your favorite time to travel too, tell me where you’re headed... I’m taking notes for the list.

Follow Me @travelwithwendyplummer for Beautiful Beach Destinations, City Guides, Foodie Spots, and Luxury Hotel Recommendations.

My Exact Packing List

I use this packing list for every trip — grab it and make packing way easier.

Embark. Explore. Eat.

Follow @travelwithwendyplummer for Beautiful Beach Destinations, City Guides, Foodie Spots, and Luxury Hotel Recommendations.

© Travel with Wendy
Site Credit // SouthMade