At Magnified Vacations, we believe that travel should be exciting, stress-free, and deeply rewarding—whether you’re planning it yourself, working with our expert team, or dreaming about making travel your career. That’s why we created these travel resources and links: to give you direct access to the best tools, links, and services that can help you plan with confidence, travel well, and stay informed every step of the way.

We understand that every traveler is unique. Some prefer the hands-on satisfaction of booking every detail themselves. Others want the reassurance and personalization of working with a trusted travel agent (like us!). And some are inspired to take the next step—to turn their passion for travel into a flexible, fulfilling career as a travel agent or own their own travel agency.

No matter where you are in your travel journey, we’re here to walk alongside you—with curated affiliate travel resources, insider suppliers, and with honest guidance.

Here’s how to get the most out of this page:

• Just browsing and like to DIY? Start with the Book it Yourself section for travel resources, tools, and affiliate booking links.
• Already booked with Magnified Vacations? Head to the Client Resources section for everything you’ll need pre-, post-, and during your travel.
• Curious about becoming a travel agent? Scroll down to the Travel Career Resources section to explore how you can start your own business with the support of a top travel agency in the business.

Let’s make your next trip—or your next career move—something truly unforgettable.

💻 1. Book It Yourself – Travel Resources for Independent Planners

We get it—some travelers love the thrill of planning every detail themselves. If you enjoy researching, comparing, and booking your own vacations, this section is for you.

At Magnified Vacations, we want to support every kind of traveler – including those who prefer to DIY. That’s why we’ve created a collection of trusted, easy-to-use tools that let you explore and book on your own terms – while still benefiting from our experience behind the scenes.

Even better? Many of these links are affiliate connections, which means when you book through them, you help support our small business – at no additional cost to you. In some cases, you’ll even get exclusive pricing or offers!

So whether you’re dreaming of a Caribbean cruise, a European tour, or a last-minute all-inclusive getaway, these resources will help you plan smart, book confidently, and travel like a pro—with us in your corner if you need backup.

Let the planning begin! Note – Some of the links provided are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase through these links. We only recommend products and services we trust and believe will add value to your travel experience.

Passport/Visa Services

• Rushmypassport.com – RushMyPassport.com is a private U.S. passport courier and expediting service – operated by Expedited Travel – that reviews, hand-delivers, and tracks applications on behalf of clients to accelerate processing, typically through partnerships with vendors like FedEx.
• Sherpa.com – Sherpa is a third-party platform that helps travelers find and understand visa requirements, apply for necessary electronic visas (eVisa) and other travel documents, and receive updates on travel policies for over 200 destinations..

Airlines

• Aer Lingus – Aer Lingus is Ireland’s national airline, flying an all-Airbus fleet to over 90 destinations in Europe and North America. With direct flights to Dublin from many US cities, including Indianapolis, IN!
• Going – Going.com is a membership-based flight deal alert service (formerly known as Scott’s Cheap Flights) that sends users curated, deeply discounted airfare options departing U.S. airports—without booking directly—so you can snag great fares and book them yourself through airlines or OTAs.

Airline Loyalty Programs

• Southwest Airlines – Southwest Rapid Rewards is the airline’s free loyalty program that lets members earn easily redeemable points for flights, everyday purchases, and partner activities—boasting no blackout dates, unlimited reward seats, and standout perks like the highly coveted Companion Pass.
• United Airlines – United miles are rewards from United’s MileagePlus program, redeemable for flights, upgrades, and travel perks with United and partner airlines.
• Alaska Airlines – Alaska Airlines miles – officially known as Mileage Plan miles – are the loyalty currency earned through Alaska’s Mileage Plan frequent-flyer program, allowing members to accumulate miles via flights, partner activity, credit-card spending, and more, which can then be redeemed for award flights on Alaska and partner airlines while unlocking elite status benefits.

Airport Lounges

• Priority Pass – Priority Pass is a global membership program that provides access to over 1,500 airport lounges and travel experiences worldwide, regardless of airline or ticket class.

Airport Parking

• Park and Go Airport – Park and Go Airport refers to private off-airport parking services that offer convenient, budget-friendly parking lots with 24/7 shuttle service (and often luggage assistance) to nearby airport terminals, letting travelers “park and go” without hassle.
• The Parking Spot – The Parking Spot is a U.S.-based off-airport parking provider offering secure, well-lit lots with shuttle service, mobile app reservations, and a loyalty program—Spot Club—for seamless, convenient access to airport terminals.
• Fast Park – FastPark is an airport parking service offering secure, conveniently located lots with quick shuttle service and amenities like covered parking and online reservations.

Park and Stay

• OneStopParking – OneStopParking offers convenient Park, Stay & Cruise and Park, Stay & Fly packages that combine hotel stays, secure parking, and shuttle transportation to help travelers begin their trip rested, organized, and stress-free.

Airport Shuttles/Transportation

• Carmel Limo – Carmel Limo is a New York–based car and limousine service offering 24/7 airport transfers and rides in cities worldwide.
• Blacklane – Blacklane is a global chauffeur service offering pre-booked, fixed-rate, carbon-neutral rides for airport transfers, intercity travel, and hourly hire.
• Viator – Viator is a Tripadvisor-owned online marketplace connecting travelers to over 300,000 bookable tours, activities, and attractions worldwide, offering flexible booking options and around-the-clock support.

Car Rentals

• CarRentals.com – CarRentals.com is an Expedia Group–owned online car rental booking platform that lets travelers compare and reserve vehicles from numerous global suppliers in one go.
• Rentcars.com – Rentcars.com is a leading online car-rental booking platform that lets you compare and reserve vehicles from over 300 rental companies across 160+ countries, often offering exclusive discounts and cashback.
• GotRentalCars.com – GotRentalCars.com is an online car rental broker based in Florida that allows you to compare and book rental vehicles from major and local providers across over 85 countries and 8,000+ locations worldwide.
• Airport Rental Cars – AirportRentalCars.com is an online car rental aggregator operated by Priceline that lets travelers effortlessly search, compare, and book airport, city, or one-way rental cars from top providers—with no booking or credit card fees, free cancellation on most bookings, and access to over 18,500 locations worldwide.
• Discover Cars – DiscoverCars is an online car rental booking platform that compares rental deals from hundreds of global suppliers across thousands of locations in over 130 countries, offering transparent pricing (no hidden fees), free cancellation, and user-friendly filters to help you find the best fit for your trip.
• Rental Car Discount – Want to book your own rental car with Dollar or Budget? Here are some discounts you can use!

Rail/Train

• Rail Europe – Rail Europe is a Paris-based travel company that simplifies train travel by offering tickets and rail passes for high-speed and regional services across Europe through a single online platform—ideal for booking multi-country journeys.
• Omio – Omio is a global travel booking platform (formerly GoEuro) that lets you search, compare, and book trains, buses, ferries, and flights all in one place.
• Trainline – Trainline is Europe’s leading train and coach booking platform that lets you search, compare, and purchase tickets from over 270 rail and bus operators across 40+ countries

Hotels

• Expedia.com – Expedia is a global online travel agency that lets users book flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and vacation packages, often with bundled savings and loyalty rewards.
• Trip.com – Trip.com is a global one-stop online travel agency where you can book flights, hotels, trains, car rentals, airport transfers, tours, attraction tickets, and more in multiple languages and currencies.
• Hotwire.com – Hotwire is an Expedia Group–owned travel booking site offering steep discounts on hotels, flights, rental cars, and vacation packages by selling unsold inventory.
• Booking.com – Booking.com is a worldwide online travel platform for reserving hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and attractions, often with flexible cancellation options.
• Great Wolf Lodge – Great Wolf Lodge is a family-focused resort chain known for its large indoor water parks, themed suites, and kid-friendly activities all under one roof.
• Hilton Hotels – Hilton Hotels is a global hospitality brand offering full-service accommodations, upscale amenities, and loyalty rewards across a wide range of destinations.
• Radisson Hotels – Radisson Hotels is an international, multi-brand hotel chain offering a range of accommodations – from upscale to midscale – under brands like Radisson Blu, Radisson, Park Plaza, and Country Inn & Suites, operating globally across both independent markets and as part of Choice Hotels in the Americas.

Hotel Loyalty Programs

• Hilton – Hilton points are the rewards currency of Hilton Honors, redeemable for free hotel stays, room upgrades, and travel perks across Hilton’s global brands and partners.

Vacation Rentals

• Top Villas – Top Villas is a premier luxury vacation rental specialist offering a curated portfolio of over 15,000 upscale villas and vacation homes in 150+ top global destinations, complemented by personalized travel planners and 5-star concierge service.
• Villas of Distinction – Villas of Distinction is a luxury villa rental agency that curates fully vetted, high-end vacation homes worldwide – ranging from penthouses to sprawling estates – enhanced with concierge-level service and personalized touches to craft one-of-a-kind travel experiences.
• VRBO – VRBO (Vacation Rentals by Owner) is an online marketplace where travelers can book vacation homes, condos, cabins, and villas directly from property owners and managers.

Resorts

• Atlantis Bahamas – Atlantis Paradise Island (often called Atlantis Bahamas) is a sprawling ocean-themed resort and casino complex on Paradise Island, Bahamas, featuring multiple hotel towers, a massive Aquaventure water park, marine habitats, beaches, dining, and entertainment all in one.
• Apple Vacations – Apple Vacations is a U.S.-based travel company (founded in 1969) that specializes in bundling flights, resorts, all-inclusive packages, and transfers to destinations like Mexico, the Caribbean, Hawaii, Europe, and the U.S.—often with exclusive nonstop flights, flexible payment options, and complimentary shared airport transfers.
• FunJet Vacations – Funjet Vacations is a tour operator (part of Apple Leisure Group) that specializes in all-inclusive flight-plus-hotel vacation packages – often including exclusive nonstop charter flights – to destinations like Mexico, the Caribbean, Hawaii, and beyond, while offering perks like price-match guarantees, flexible payment options, and 24/7 customer support.
• Southwest Vacations – Southwest Vacations is the leisure vacation package arm of Southwest Airlines—offered through Apple Leisure Group—that lets customers bundle Southwest flights with hotels, rental cars, and activities in one customizable package, often with savings, Rapid Rewards points, and perks like EarlyBird Check-In.

Excursions/Tours

• Viator – Viator is the world’s largest online marketplace for tours, activities, and attractions.
• AmstarDMC – Amstar DMC is a premier destination management company offering VIP airport transfers, hand-picked excursions, and full in-destination support across Mexico, the Caribbean, Costa Rica, Hawaii, and more, with a focus on delivering personalized, high-quality travel experiences for over 30 years.
• Get Your Guide – GetYourGuide is an online travel platform that lets you discover and book tours, activities, tickets, and experiences worldwide with flexible cancellation and mobile booking.
• Big Bus Tours – Big Bus Tours is the world’s largest operator of open-top, hop-on, hop-off sightseeing buses, offering guided city tours across 20+ major destinations globally.
• City Pass – CityPASS is a value-packed, multi-attraction ticket bundle that lets travelers in select North American cities access top tourist sites – like museums, observation decks, and guided tours – with one purchase and discounts up to ~50% off individual admissions.
• I-Venture Card – The iVenture Card is a flexible prepaid attractions pass—available for cities around the world—that lets travelers choose from a selection of popular sights and experiences (such as museums, tours, or city buses), enjoy skip-the-line and cash-free entry, and save up to 60% compared to buying individual tickets.
• Eating Europe – Eating Europe is a local-led food tour company offering immersive, small-group culinary walking tours across major European cities—taking travelers off the tourist trail to taste the best regional dishes, meet food creators, and explore culture through cuisine.
• Venture Ashore – Venture Ashore is the largest independent shore excursion provider in the world, delivering uniquely curated, amazing experiences for cruise travelers.

Scuba/Dive

• PADI – PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) is the world’s largest scuba diver training and certification organization, offering globally recognized courses, standards, and dive centers that enable safe and accessible underwater exploration.
• House of Scuba – House of Scuba is a San Diego–based dive provider and retail store offering a vast selection of scuba and snorkeling gear, PADI-certified lessons, equipment rentals and servicing, plus dive trips—all backed by expert, customer-first service.

Travel Protection

• RoamRight – RoamRight Travel Insurance, underwritten by Arch Insurance Company, offers customizable coverage for trip cancellations, medical emergencies, baggage issues, and more, with multiple plan options and 24/7 travel assistance.
• TravelEx – Travelex Travel Insurance offers customizable, family-friendly coverage – including trip cancellation, emergency medical, baggage protection, and optional upgrades like Cancel-For-Any-Reason – underwritten by Berkshire Hathaway and supported by 24/7 assistance to help safeguard your trip.
• BHTP – Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP) is a prominent, highly-rated travel insurance provider known for its “simplified” approach, offering, among others, comprehensive policies like ExactCare and AirCare. Backed by the financial strength of Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance, BHTP is popular for its fast, mobile-friendly claims process and 24/7 travel assistance.
• Detour – Detour Travel Protection provides comprehensive travel insurance designed for adventure travelers, covering trip cancellations, medical emergencies, evacuations, baggage issues, and delays—all with 24/7 global assistance. It offers strong protection for active trips up to 180 days.

Not sure if Travel Protection is right for you? Check out our blog post on the ins and outs of Travel Protection.

Nassua Relief

• ReliefBands – ReliefBand is an FDA-cleared, drug-free wearable device that delivers gentle nerve-stimulating pulses to the underside of the wrist to effectively prevent and treat nausea and vomiting – such as from motion sickness or morning sickness – without drowsiness or side effects.
• EmeTerm – EmeTerm is a clinically proven, FDA-cleared wearable wristband that uses gentle electrical stimulation (TEAS/TENS technology) to rapidly relieve nausea and vomiting caused by motion sickness, morning sickness, chemotherapy, travel, VR – without drugs or side effects.

Luggage/Travel Gear

• Solgaard Design – Solgaard Design is a sustainable, B Corp–certified travel gear brand that creates premium luggage, backpacks, and accessories – like the award-winning Carry-On Closet suitcase—using ocean-bound plastics and innovative organization features.
• Roam Luggage – ROAM Luggage is a premium, customizable suitcase brand assembled by hand in the USA – offering made-to-order, ultra-light, impact-resistant polycarbonate cases that you can design down to the colors, trims, and monogram, complete with a lifetime warranty and risk-free trial.
• TravelOn – Travelon is a travel-lifestyle brand known for its innovative, highly practical accessories—like anti-theft bags, RFID-blocking wallets, and organizational gear—designed with security, functionality, and thoughtful detail in mind.
• Tumi – Tumi is a premium luggage and travel accessories brand renowned for its high-performance designs (like ballistic nylon) and durable, sophisticated pieces favored by business and frequent travelers.
• Pakt – Pakt is a minimalist travel gear brand known for sustainably crafted, thoughtfully designed bags – like clever dual-compartment duffels and carry-on backpacks – that simplify packing with intentional functionality and eco-conscious materials.
• Samsonite – Samsonite is a globally renowned luggage brand that is celebrated for its durable, innovative travel bags, suitcases, and accessories designed for reliability, practicality, and enduring performance.

Pictures/Memories

• SmugMug – SmugMug is a photography platform where professionals and enthusiasts can securely store, share, and sell their photos online through customizable galleries and e-commerce tools.
• MixBook – Mixbook is a customizable online photo platform that enables users to create personalized photo books, cards, calendars, home décor, and wall art using intuitive design tools for beautifully designed, print-on-demand keepsakes.
• PhotoBook – Photobook is an online platform that lets users design and print personalized photo books, albums, and custom gifts like calendars, wall art, and stationery.
• CanvasChamp – CanvasChamp is an online canvas-printing and photo-gift platform that lets you transform personal images into custom wall art, décor, and novelties – like canvas prints, photo blankets, mugs, and more – at budget-friendly prices with a seamless design and ordering experience.
• Maps.com – Maps.com is a content platform created by Esri that celebrates and features visually stunning, thought-provoking maps from creators around the world—designed to educate, inspire curiosity, and highlight the power of cartography.
• The Cruise Maps – The Cruise Maps capture your Cruise with Perfect Precision. Transform your memories into treasured keepsakes with a GPS-crafted map that tells your story exactly as it happened.

✈️ 2. Client Travel Resources – For those already booked with Magnified Vacations

First off—thank you! We’re thrilled to be part of your travel journey and honored that you’ve chosen Magnified Vacations to help plan your vacation. Now that your trip is officially on the calendar, it’s time to prepare for a smooth and stress-free experience.

This section is designed specifically for our booked clients. Whether you are heading out on a cruise, flying to a tropical resort, or joining a guided tour through Europe, we’ve gathered all the essential tools and travel tips you’ll need before departure. From passport reminders and packing lists to excursion options and airport tips—we’ve got you covered.

Our goal is to help you travel confidently, stay organized, and enjoy the countdown to your trip. And remember, if you have any questions or need support along the way, your travel advisor is just a phone call or email away.

Let’s get you ready for takeoff!

Excursions

• Viator – Viator is the world’s largest online marketplace for tours, activities, and attractions.
• Shore Excursions Group – Shore Excursions Group is the market-leading and world’s largest shore excursion company.
• Venture Ashore – Venture Ashore is the largest independent shore excursion provider in the world, delivering uniquely curated, amazing experiences for cruise travelers.
• GetYourGuide – GetYourGuide is a leading travel platform for booking tours, attractions, excursions & activities for your next vacation or weekend adventure.
• Walks – Walks Tours is a leader in the tours and activities industry, offering unique and memorable travel experiences across Europe and North America.
• Amstar – Amstar is the best choice for Transfers & Excursions in Mexico and the Caribbean! Book from handpicked activities to private VIP itineraries, plus top-notch transportation options.
• Island Routes – Book exciting Caribbean island tours in 9 destinations! Island Routes thrilling outdoor adventure tours will reveal the grandeur of the Caribbean.
• Club Mobay – Club Mobay is your express pass through the airport in Jamaica, whisking you past long lines and getting you to your vacation faster!
• Resort for a Day – Resort for a Day is a unique service that allows cruisers to experience some of the world’s most luxurious resorts for a day.
• Tour Sales -TourSales provides exceptional travel experiences at the best prices to our customers in the locations they visit around the world.
• ToToura – Totoura offers a range of ground services, including transportation between airports and hotels, as well as tours and activities at various destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean.

Travel Insurance

• LeisureCare – The LeisureCare Travel Insurance Plan is provided through Aon Affinity, a worldwide leader in travel insurance. LeisureCare offers 3 different travel insurance plans to fit your specific travel needs.

Not sure if you need travel insurance on your next trip? Check out our page on Travel Protection.

Currency Exchange

• CXI – Currency Exchange International, CXI, is a leading provider of comprehensive foreign exchange services.

Are you not sure of the benefits of exchanging currency BEFORE you leave for your next international trip? Check out our article on Currency Exchange Tips for International Travelers.

Picture Management

• SmugMug – You will be taking a lot of pictures, and you will need a place to house them during and after you get back home, so you can share them with others about your trip. Smugmug is a great online option to organize, save, and share your dream vacations.

🚀 3. Travel Career Resources – Resources and Tools for a Travel Agent/Agency

Do you love talking about travel, helping friends plan trips, or dreaming up your next adventure? Have you ever thought, “I’d love to get paid to do this”? If so, becoming a travel agent might be the perfect next step for you.

At Magnified Vacations, we started just like you—with a passion for exploring the world and a desire to help others do the same. Today, we run a successful travel business that allows us to serve amazing clients, enjoy exclusive industry perks, and work on our own schedule. And the best part? You can do it too.

This section is for anyone curious about becoming a travel advisor, whether part-time, full-time, or as a side hustle. We’ll introduce you to our host agency, Dream Vacations, and share resources that can help you launch and grow your own travel business, with training, support, and a proven path to success.

If you’re ready to turn your love for travel into something more, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore what’s possible!

Banking Resources

• CapitalOne Business Card – This is the one credit card we use to purchase EVERYTHING in our business, including business travel. You earn 2% cash back on every purchase.
• Old National Bank – We have used this bank for over 10 years and have our main business accounts at this bank.
• Live Oak Bank – This online bank is where we hold our excess funds, including our profit, retirement, tax, and business reserve accounts. Live Oak Bank offers high-interest savings accounts.

Accounting and Payroll

• Wave App Accounting – This is the easiest online accounting software program for running a travel agency.
• Gusto – All things HR and payroll. Simply the easiest and best tool for payroll, benefits, etc for a small business.
• Veem – This is how we pay our contractors. This platform allows us to transfer money from our bank account (Old National Bank) directly to our contractors. It is easy to navigate and easy to set up.
• PayPal – A popular online payment platform. We use this platform to send invoices or bills to our contractors or vendors.

Marketing and Advertising

• Publer – One of the easiest social media management tools on the market, especially for a small business. This tool is powerful but doesn’t break the bank.
• SmugMug – We use this program to host and share our pictures with clients and potential clients. This is the main way we share and promote the trips we take. This is your best form of advertising!!!!

File Sharing

• Box – A File storage program that allows us to share our agency’s business tools, processes, and procedures in an online space with our agents.
• Dropbox – This is another online storage system. We use this program to create and share commission statements. It is easy to update and then share once payments are available to our contractors.

Business Phone System

• Zoom Phone – This is a Voice Over IP (VOIP) system that all our agents and the agency are set up. This is a great tool for calling, texting, and other communication with our clients and business partners.

Book Recommendations for Business Growth

Looking to grow your mindset, sharpen your marketing skills, or take your sales approach to the next level? These are some of the books that have personally helped me build and grow Magnified Vacations. Whether running a business, launching a side business, or simply wanting to lead more confidently, these reads are packed with actionable insights and inspiration.

Click the titles below to learn more or order a copy. (Some links may be affiliate links that help support our site.)

• ProfitFirst – This is the best book you can read about business finances and how to manage your cash flow, which is extremely important when running a travel agency.
• Clockwork – This is a great book about business processes and procedures, and how to make your business run without you.
• Never Lose a Customer Again – This is a great book on how to create a business that keeps clients loyal to your business and travel agency. This is a fun and easy book to read.
• Talk Triggers – Building a business from word-of-mouth marketing is key to building a long-term travel agency. This book with help you do that.
• Duct Tape Marketing – You will need to learn to market your business, and this book will tell you how to do that. This is a must-read book for any travel agency owner.
• Building a Story Brand – Your message as a travel agent or a travel agency owner is very important; this book will help you draft the right message for your audience.
• The Power of Moments – Travel is filled with many moments, and this book will help you capitalize on those to become a trusted business.
• Banana Ball – Business should be fun, and this book is a history of the Savanna Banana’s baseball team and how you too can have a business that is fun!!