These simple search tricks and free tools help you travel better, spend less, and find the real hidden gems.
Whether you’re planning a dreamy European escape or a last-minute weekend getaway, Google can be your best travel buddy—if you know how to use it.
I’m not talking about generic searches like “top 10 things to do in Paris.” I’m talking about search tricks that get you closer to the real deal—local finds, budget wins, and less stress from start to finish.
Here are 7 of my favorite Google hacks that I use all the time—both as a traveler and a travel advisor.
1. Find the Cheapest Flight Days with Google Flights Calendar
Why it’s great:
Instead of jumping between airline sites or guessing which dates are cheapest, Google Flights shows you a full calendar view with prices.
How to use it:
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Head to Google Flights
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Enter your route (e.g., Orlando to San Juan)
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Click the date field → Scroll the calendar to instantly compare prices across weeks
💡 Pro tip: Use the filters to set nonstop flights only, preferred airlines, or baggage rules to avoid hidden fees.
2. Use “Things to Do Near Me” + Filters for Instant Inspiration
Why it’s great:
Already on your trip and not sure what to do next? This trick uses your real-time location and the time of day to find open attractions and events nearby.
How to use it:
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Open Google and search:
“Things to do near me open now”
“Free events near me this weekend” -
Use the map view to see what’s walkable or nearby
💡 Pro tip: This works even better in big cities where last-minute plans can lead to unexpected fun (hello, jazz night at a hidden bar!).
3. Create a Custom Travel Map with Google Maps “Saved” Lists
Why it’s great:
No more digging through screenshots and notes to remember the name of that café or museum. You can save everything to a custom Google Map list.
How to use it:
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Open Google Maps
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Tap a spot you want to remember → Click “Save” → Add to a custom list like “Barcelona Trip”
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View the list anytime on your phone and see all saved spots on one map
💡 Pro tip: Share your list with travel buddies so everyone’s in the loop—and you don’t duplicate plans.
4. Search with “site:” to Find Local Blogs & Forums
Why it’s great:
Want real, unfiltered recommendations—not sponsored top-10 lists? Use this search modifier to tell Google where to look.
How to use it:
Search like this:
site:reddit.com best food in Romesite:wordpress.com hidden beaches in Greece
This pulls content from Reddit, WordPress, Blogger, or any blog/forum site you specify—where locals and experienced travelers are talking.
💡 Pro tip: Great for finding niche info like vintage shopping, allergy-friendly eats, or offbeat sights.
5. Use Google Lens to Instantly Translate Menus & Signs
Why it’s great:
You don’t need to guess what “morcilla” means ever again. Just point your phone and the translation appears right on your screen.
How to use it:
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Open the Google Lens app (or access via Google app camera)
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Point your camera at the text
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Tap “Translate” → it will overlay English text instantly
💡 Pro tip: It works offline too—download the language in Google Translate before your trip.
6. Search “[Item] Near Me” to Find Essentials on the Go
Why it’s great:
Travel hiccup? Forgot sunscreen, need a charger, or looking for a pharmacy abroad? This is your best friend.
How to use it:
Just search:
“pharmacy near me open now”
“Starbucks with Wi-Fi near me”
“SIM card store near me”
Google Maps will show options nearby, complete with hours, reviews, and how busy it is right now.
💡 Pro tip: Tap the “Busy Times” section to avoid long lines.
7. Explore Cities Like a Local Using Google’s “Explore” Tab or Street View
Why it’s great:
Need help figuring out where to stay or what a neighborhood feels like? Google Earth and the Explore tab are virtual walking tours in your pocket.
How to use it:
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In Google Maps, scroll up from the bottom → Tap “Explore”
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See restaurants, hidden gems, top-rated spots, and new places trending with locals
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Or drop into Street View on Google Earth and “walk” a street to preview hotels, cafés, or neighborhoods before booking
💡 Pro tip: Use this to scout cruise ports, resort surroundings, or the walkability of a hotel area.
Final Thoughts:
You don’t need to be a tech wizard to plan smart. With a few free tools and these easy search tricks, you can travel like an insider, avoid common pitfalls, and find the kind of experiences that don’t show up on the glossy tourist brochure.
🧳 Want a printable version of these hacks? Download that right here!
And if you’d rather not do the planning at all? I can help you with that too. 😉
Let me know what you’re looking for here.
Prefer to email. Send that email to tracy @ pattonrobertstravel.com