Rudderless Travel

LOOKING FOR AWESOME DAY & ROAD TRIPS?

The Best Global Day Trips, Road Trips & Weekend Getaways!

Ready to break free from routine? Are you keen to escape on a spontaneous adventure? Join me as I share the best ways to see the world in a weekend — or even a day. Back home in Toronto, Weekend Getaways and day trips are a regular thing!

I created this website for travellers who are looking to redefine their experiences. With a focus on quick getaway trips around the world, my aim is to inspire and educate you on the best places for a weekend getaway, day excursion, and road trip journey. 
If you’re asking yourself, where can I go for a quick weekend getaway?, you’ll find the best answers below.

About This Rudderless Traveller

My name is Christopher Rudder, a videographer & editor, podcaster, freelance writer based in Toronto, Canada and owner of Rudderless Media.

Together with my partner Gordana Grubor, we are experts in day trips and road trips who, with our team, write high-quality, search-engine-optimized travel articles, itineraries and reviews for this site, Road Trip Ontario and other online publications.

Plus, as an audio editor (with a sexy voice), you can find me co-hosting the Road Trip Ready Podcast with my co-host and long-time friend Danille Desir Corbett. As well as hosting the Highway Highlights Podcast.

day trips

What Is Rudderless Travel?

Unlike traditional travel, rudderless travel is the idea of surrendering to the unknown. Discover hidden gems. Stumble upon local treasures. But above all, trust the journey. 

And I get it; this all sounds great, but being prepared before you travel is important. Especially when you’re venturing into new territories where perhaps you don’t speak the language and aren’t familiar with the landscapes. This website is all about finding the sweet spot between the unknown and having some guidance. 

To ensure your travels are both fun and informed, I’ve loaded this platform with helpful suggestions and travel guides. Think of them as your friendly helpers, giving you key details like the best backpack to use, quick itineraries (like this 48-hour trip to New York), and guides on what to do in Naples, Portugal, and all the different corners of the world. 

Imagine yourself in a bustling city across the ocean from your home, not sure which street to explore or where to even grab a coffee. RudderlessTravel is here to be your go-to travel pal, offering tips to help you navigate these destinations confidently. 

things to do in naples italy

One-Day & Weekend Trips Around the World

How much can you really see in one day? Even 36 hours seems like a short time to discover a new place, right? But you’d be surprised. Whether you’re staying in the city and needing to escape the bustle for a day or looking for somewhere to visit on a tight schedule, day trips are ideal. And extending your stay for the weekend only makes it better. 

From charming towns to breathtaking natural wonders, these guides offer a world of exploration in bite-sized adventures. There’s no need to stay home just because you don’t have extended leave days to travel. Pick one of these exciting day trips, quick weekend getaways, or mid-week road trip vacations close to you and set out to discover impressive sights and scenes. 

I know first-hand that life’s best moments are often found in the unscripted, the unexpected, and the unplanned. So, let go of the ordinary, embrace the extraordinary, and let our day trips be your passport to a world of discovery. Life is too short for the mundane—immerse yourself in unforgettable day adventures.

things to do in buffalo
United States Of America | Day Trips

18 Things to Do in Buffalo, NY, on Your Next Weekend Getaway

When planning a road trip to a fun-filled U.S. destination, Buffalo, New York, may not be the first location that comes to mind. Trust me, I often planned a trip to Niagara, spending the night in Seneca Casino and shopping at Niagara Outlet Mall. I’d pop over to Buffalo for “Buffalo Wings,” think there was…

houston to galveston
United States Of America | Day Trips

11 Stops From Houston To Galveston: Discover the Gulf Coast’s Hidden Gem

Whether you’re an avid traveller, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone looking to explore new destinations, this Gulf Coast treasure is guaranteed to mesmerize you. Embarking on a day trip from Houston to Galveston opens up a world of unimaginable discoveries. For young adults with an interest in nature, science, and maritime knowledge, this journey…

apple picking in ontario
Canada | Day Trips

25+ Best Places to Go Apple Picking in Ontario

Embrace the crisp fall air and the season’s beautiful colours while enjoying a classic seasonal activity – apple picking! Full disclosure, This is not something my brothers and I did as children. I’m not sure if, as children of immigrant parents, they knew that Apple Picking was something you could do as a family. Whether…

Global Road Trips

Craving the open road? Great. Pack a few snacks, pick out a groovy playlist, and learn the rules of the road in the country you’re planning on driving through. There’s something fantastic about jumping into a car (whether your own or a rented one) and taking control of your travels. 

Road trips offer so much more out of your travels, allowing you to stop at landmarks and charming towns that you might have missed if you were travelling another way. You don’t need a week or longer to make a memorable road trip, either, as you’ll see in my short travel guides below. 

Whether it’s the iconic Route 66, the Pacific Coast Highway, or a winding mountain pass, I share the joys of the open road, ensuring that every pit stop becomes a cherished memory. So, rev up your engines, hit the road, and let me be your companion in exploring the unparalleled thrill of the great road trip.

Game of Thrones Northern Ireland

Featured Destinations: Best Weekend Getaways & Day Trips

The world is your oyster! And I encourage you to see as much of it as you can in your lifetime. But I do happen to have a few favourite destinations (don’t tell the others). These just work so perfectly when it comes to weekend getaway ideas.

These diverse countries offer an array of experiences, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to cultural explorations, gastronomic delights, or the allure of natural wonders, our featured destinations promise a rich tapestry of activities, sights, and flavours.

Let the journey unfold as we delve into the heart of each destination, bringing you a global variety of moments that will ignite your wanderlust.

Destinations

Travel Resources for Quick Trips

If you’re worried about the logistics of your weekend vacations? I’ve got you! I’ve made sure to include handy tips and tricks for last-minute planning to help make it a smooth ride. I don’t think you need to plan every second of your trip, but it’s never a bad idea to prepare a bit.

things to see in toronto
Canada | Resources

Toronto Budget: How Much Does It Cost To Go To Toronto?

Now depending on your needs and interests, your Toronto budget may look different from mine. Nevertheless, use this detailed spending plan as a guide. It’ll give you a better sense: of how much does it cost to go to Toronto. It’ll also shed some light on the spending pitfalls to avoid. Only an hour away…

Quick Getaways, Tips, & Latest Posts

Can you feel that wanderlust bug but aren’t quite sure where it’s leading you yet? Check out my latest posts to help spark the weekend vacation ideas. 

things to do in buffalo
United States Of America | Day Trips

18 Things to Do in Buffalo, NY, on Your Next Weekend Getaway

When planning a road trip to a fun-filled U.S. destination, Buffalo, New York, may not be the first location that comes to mind. Trust me, I often planned a trip to Niagara, spending the night in Seneca Casino and shopping at Niagara Outlet Mall. I’d pop over to Buffalo for “Buffalo Wings,” think there was…

houston to galveston
United States Of America | Day Trips

11 Stops From Houston To Galveston: Discover the Gulf Coast’s Hidden Gem

Whether you’re an avid traveller, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone looking to explore new destinations, this Gulf Coast treasure is guaranteed to mesmerize you. Embarking on a day trip from Houston to Galveston opens up a world of unimaginable discoveries. For young adults with an interest in nature, science, and maritime knowledge, this journey…

apple picking in ontario
Canada | Day Trips

25+ Best Places to Go Apple Picking in Ontario

Embrace the crisp fall air and the season’s beautiful colours while enjoying a classic seasonal activity – apple picking! Full disclosure, This is not something my brothers and I did as children. I’m not sure if, as children of immigrant parents, they knew that Apple Picking was something you could do as a family. Whether…

Work With Me

When I’m not uncovering hidden gems for great weekend getaways or sketching out exhilarating road trips across the globe, I channel my skills toward a passion project – assisting others in their creative endeavours. Alongside my dedicated partner and our team of creative masterminds, we extend a spectrum of collaborative opportunities for fellow enthusiasts in the travel world.

Our mission is simple: to foster a community where creativity knows no bounds. Whether you’re a fellow wanderer, a travel blogger, or someone with a unique vision, we’re here to collaborate and bring your ideas to life. Together, we can craft compelling narratives, design captivating visuals, and curate experiences that resonate with audiences around the globe.


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explore waterloo region
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All Posts

things to do in buffalo
United States Of America | Day Trips

18 Things to Do in Buffalo, NY, on Your Next Weekend Getaway

When planning a road trip to a fun-filled U.S. destination, Buffalo, New York, may not be the first location that comes to mind. Trust me, I often planned a trip to Niagara, spending the night in Seneca Casino and shopping at Niagara Outlet Mall. I’d pop over to Buffalo for “Buffalo Wings,” think there was…

houston to galveston
United States Of America | Day Trips

11 Stops From Houston To Galveston: Discover the Gulf Coast’s Hidden Gem

Whether you’re an avid traveller, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone looking to explore new destinations, this Gulf Coast treasure is guaranteed to mesmerize you. Embarking on a day trip from Houston to Galveston opens up a world of unimaginable discoveries. For young adults with an interest in nature, science, and maritime knowledge, this journey…

apple picking in ontario
Canada | Day Trips

25+ Best Places to Go Apple Picking in Ontario

Embrace the crisp fall air and the season’s beautiful colours while enjoying a classic seasonal activity – apple picking! Full disclosure, This is not something my brothers and I did as children. I’m not sure if, as children of immigrant parents, they knew that Apple Picking was something you could do as a family. Whether…

48-Hour-Toronto-Itinerary
Canada

48 Hours In Toronto Itinerary: How To Spend A Weekend In My City

What to do in Toronto for a weekend? Read on as I share all my favourite places to visit and things to see.  After so many years of travelling, I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to assemble a 48-hour Toronto itinerary. It’s where I was born, and it’s where I live, work, and…

2-day-dublin-itinerary
Ireland

2 Days In Dublin Itinerary: A Guinness-Fuelled Weekend

Spending at least 2 days in Ireland’s capital city has been on my travel list since I visited St. John’s & Fogo Island in Newfoundland & Labrador. Now that I’ve done it, I’ve compiled our trip into a handy itinerary for you. In the 1800s, thousands of Irish immigrants came to these shores seeking a…

quebec-city-weekend
Canada

Weekend in Quebec City: 3-Day Itinerary & Travel Guide

I cannot believe the stars finally lined up for a weekend in Quebec City getaway. I’ve been to Montreal twice and was always impressed with its old town. Friends, family and fellow travel bloggers who have been to QC have told me that when it comes to narrow cobblestone streets, you haven’t seen anything until…

3 days in lisbon
Portugal

3 Days In Lisbon | The Ultimate Lisbon Itinerary

Look. The only reason I’m here is to find out if I’m related to Cristiano Ronaldo, and I have 3 Days In Lisbon to figure it out!  The thing is, I’m not even joking. For years I’ve been told that my great, great-grandfather was Portuguese. Information relayed through oral history – as my cousin Tanya would…

things to do in naples italy
Italy

36 Best Things To Do In Naples Italy | The Ultimate Naples Itinerary

I love pizza, and I thought about writing a post about finding the best pizzeria in Naples since Naples is the birthplace of pizza. Of course, I’ll be talking about the best things to do in Naples Italy and giving you the ultimate Naples Itinerary. But first, pizza. I quickly learned from the locals here in…

things to see in toronto
Canada | Resources

Toronto Budget: How Much Does It Cost To Go To Toronto?

Now depending on your needs and interests, your Toronto budget may look different from mine. Nevertheless, use this detailed spending plan as a guide. It’ll give you a better sense: of how much does it cost to go to Toronto. It’ll also shed some light on the spending pitfalls to avoid. Only an hour away…

Gay pride in toronto
Canada

Gay Pride In Toronto + The 10 Best Things to Do in Toronto

Is Toronto worth visiting? Can-a-duhhhhh! Take a leaf out of our books (make sure it’s maple!) and head onto the Hollywood of the North. Known for its unique architecture (hello, the CN Tower looks like a space tree), diverse population, ice hockey, and scenic parks, it can be tricky trying to put together a to-do…

things-to-do-in-catania-italy
Day Trips | Italy

Things To Do In Catania, Italy: 14 Attractions & Sicily Guide

After enjoying a three-day Malta itinerary in absolute sunny bliss, I arrived in Catania in torrential rain. I had just walked into my hotel when it started too. Whew! The weather cleared up, and all was right in the world again. The Catania, Sicily weather was beautiful, and I couldn’t wait to explore all the…

Game of Thrones Northern Ireland
Day Trips | Northern Ireland

16 Awesome Game of Thrones Northern Ireland Filming Locations

Have you ever wondered where Game of Thrones was filmed? As a massive Game of Thrones fan, mesmerized by the gorgeous scenery, I made a point of spending a few days in Belfast after a fun 2 Days In Dublin, Ireland. I knew that there was a lot of Game of Thrones Northern Ireland locations…

things to do in belfast
Northern Ireland

Best Things To Do In Belfast Northern Ireland | Complete Weekend Travel Guide

Located in Northern Ireland, Belfast is currently a booming tourist destination. So we’ve taken the time to develop the best things to do in Belfast Ireland, more accurately, Northern Ireland. Most would agree that this is a welcomed development. Previously, the entire country was plagued with violence and conflicts within its borders – known as…

things to do in marrakech
Day Trips | Morocco

Best Things To Do In Marrakech: The Ultimate 24-Hour Tour Guide

Marrakech offers bright colours, loud music, the taste of exotic food, the smell of herbs and spices, and the softness of silk and leather goods. Among the most wonderful and sophisticated places across the globe, a 24-hour – things to do in Marrakech tour, is a perfect way to highlight the rich culture. A place…

THINGS TO DO IN VALLETTA
Malta

Top Things To Do In Valletta Malta: 2 Day Malta Itinerary

I had a friend from elementary school who was from Malta but other than that I never really thought anything of it. Then the Mother of Dragons flew onto HBO and caught my attention.  Ever since the first season of Game of Thrones, I’ve been putting together a list of the top things to do in Valletta Malta and…

the-ultimate-game-of-thrones-malta-locations
Day Trips | Malta

The Ultimate Game Of Thrones Malta Locations Itinerary

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past several years, Game Of Thrones is one of the biggest shows on TV right now. I have never watched a TV show that was so epic; crazy battles, deep, well-developed characters, exotic locations fantastic scripts, the list goes on. I understand that not everyone is…

cliffs-of-moher-day-trip-from-dublin
Day Trips | Ireland

Magical Cliffs Of Moher Day Trip From Dublin, Ireland

I’ve been waiting for this trip for a very long time !!The magical Cliffs of Moher day trip from Dublin is located on the west coast of Ireland, along the Wild Atlantic Way, are the iconic Cliffs of Moher. You may recognize the Cliffs of Moher from such films as The Princess Bride (1987) (as the filming…

2-Days-in-Zurich
Switzerland

2 Days In Zurich: The Ultimate Zurich Itinerary

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland, and its the country’s financial capital, often associated with luxury and opulence. However, as I’ve been living here for over 15 years, I’ve come to love the perfect combination of history, modernity, and the Swiss Alps’ distinct beauty right on my doorstep. Thus, creating the ideal Zurich Itinerary…

atlas-amulet-recycled-sterling-silver-necklace-reviews
Resources

Atlas Amulet Recycled Sterling Silver Necklace For Travellers (Review)

Twenty-twenty has been a pretty rough year. Scary, challenging & unpredictable. For us, in the travel space, it’s been particularly tough with international travel for pleasure temporarily grounded. Like I giant resent button, I’ve learned a lot about the value of family, friends, and finance, but I also learned about the importance of nature and…

things to do in St. John's Newfoundland
Canada

12 Things to Do in St. John’s Newfoundland in 48 Hours

It wasn’t until I travelled to Ireland that I realize why I loved Newfoundland so much. Amongst the many things to do in St. John’s Newfoundland, the island also has deep Irish roots and shares many customs, linguistics, love of music, etc. but for me, it was the people. It’s that warm, happy, always smiling friendliness….

Fogo-island-Newfoundland_-scaled
Canada

36 Hours On Fogo Island Newfoundland & Labrador

Fogo Island Newfoundland & Labrador. I’m not even sure how I ended up here. Oh, wait I remember. My brother wanted to stay in the Fogo Island Inn.Yes, that Fogo Island Inn!Breath-taking. Elusive, Remote. Exclusive.  It’s the sound of the North Atlantic Ocean gently strumming at the shore a few feet from a large window…

Montreal Itinerary
Canada

How to Spend 2 Days in Montreal No Matter the Weather: A Montreal Itinerary

The last time I visited Montreal was a whopping 10 years ago. Sheesh, that’s bad (and worse when said out loud).  I’m from Toronto, but I don’t subscribe to the whole Toronto Maple Leafs vs Montreal Canadians hockey rivalry. I cannot deny that a Montreal itinerary will have tons of history. It will be a…

best-carry-on-backpack
Resources

Best Carry On Backpack Review – Standard Luggage (Travel Bags & Packing Cubes)

As a travel videographer, editor and photographer when it comes to camera gear, I hold this truth to be self-evident: I have more camera bags than Kim Kardashian has Birkin bags. That said, my camera bag fetish goes far beyond just camera bags. I’m into backpacks, sling bags, laptop bags, briefcases, shoulder bags, suitcases, carry-on…

airwander
Resources

AirWander – What Is A Stopover… Redefined

When I first decided to start sharing my travel stories through this blog, I realized that in order to stand out from the other travel bloggers, I needed to niche down to a specific travel style. Determined, I kicked up a massive dust storm rifling through my travel videos, pictures and past travel itineraries searching…

things-to-do-in-copenhagen-itinerary
Denmark

The Greatest Things To Do in Copenhagen Itinerary (2 Days, Viking Approved)

People won’t stop smiling at me, trains drive themselves, plus it’s the birthplace of The Little Mermaid and LEGO. I had a lot of fun putting together this ‘Things To Do in Copenhagen Itinerary’ – danishes taste better in Denmark (So does Carlsberg and Tuborg). Oh, and speaking of Danish pastries, my Canadian and possibly…

What-To-Do-In-Oslo-Norway
Norway

Things To See In Oslo In 2 Days (Viking Approved)

When translated into English, Oslo means expensive. I kid, I kid, but seriously Oslo is expensive. On the night we arrived, we wanted a place to sit and review our big “Things To See In Oslo, Norway” list. We stumbled across this cute little pizzeria beside Oslo Cathedral called Cafe Cathedral.One pizza, one beer and a shot…

3-Days-In-Stockholm-Itinerary
Sweden

The Best 3 Days In Stockholm Itinerary (Viking Approved)

Now, before I start this, 3 days in Stockholm itinerary I need to confess something – and it is going to sound very ignorant of me, so for that, I apologize.  I’ve only ever associated visiting Stockholm and Sweden in general with IKEA and Swedish Meatballs. Yeah, I know. And just so I can complete the process…

Postojna-Cave
Day Trips | Slovenia

Day Trip From Ljubljana To Postojna, Cave

One of Gordana’s good friends told me that if I’m going to visit Slovenia, I have to take a day trip from Ljubljana to Postojna – more specifically Postojna Caves. Typically speaking I’m a huge fan of caves particularly on hot humid days, that natural air-conditioning is always welcome. Believe it or not, I actually…

things to do in ljubljana
Resources | Slovenia

Experiencing Slovenian Cuisine Through The BiteMojo App

Last year, I arrived in Ljubljana from Zagreb late in the afternoon excited to meet two amazing food & travel bloggers Daryl and Mindi Hirsch from the 2 Food Trippers for a bite to eat. If they’re circling around Ljubljana restaurants then you know what that means… I never claimed to be a foodie. I…

affordable-fair-trade-clothing
Resources

Prana: Sustainable & Affordable Fair Trade Clothing For World Travellers

I never positioned myself as a person who was overly concerned about sustainability.  I know that sounds bad – but at its core, I understand what sustainable means from a work perspective. Since my full-time gig evolves working with teachers and parents of children with special needs, sustainable for me means; creating goals for a…

watkins-glen-state-park-trails
Day Trips | United States Of America

A Day Of Chasing Waterfalls Along The Watkins Glen State Park Trails

For the past few years, I’ve been telling people that I’m not a huge fan of hiking.Why was that? What was it about hiking that I actually don’t like?I love nature.I love being one with nature.I love the sounds of birds singing and leaves rustling in the wind.I love the smell of new grass and…

what-to-do-in-rome-in-2-days
Italy

What To Do In Rome In 2 Days

Ah good old Italy, the place of classic cuisine, ancient history, and fine clothing. The place where using an “indoor voice” means…well who are we kidding? It means absolutely nothing and as soon as I checked into my Airbnb all I could hear was parents yelling at children, children yelling at children, children yelling at…

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Disclaimer

Important FTC disclosure: You should assume that every single link on my site is an affiliate link and that if you click on it and buy something, I’ll possibly make a small commission but, don’t worry, you won’t be charged extra for it. I do not recommend products unless I believe they are of value to you…