For McCool Travel’s 184th travel interview, I am pleased to present Jen Ruiz. Like most of my travel interview subjects, I first learned about Jen on Twitter. I remember being impressed with her “12 trips in 12 months, while working as a lawyer” travel quest about five years ago.
Since then she keeps impressing—with viral TikTok posts, book deals, and general all-around amazingness. Jen took a quick break from writing—for that fantastic book deal—to graciously do this interview. Thank you, Jen!
Jen Ruiz’ bio:
Jen Ruiz is a lawyer turned full-time travel blogger and author. She is a 5-time Amazon bestselling author, 3-time TEDx speaker, and multi award-winning travel journalist. She has been featured by The Washington Post, Forbes, and ABC News and is the solo female traveler behind Jen on a Jet Plane.
Jen Ruiz
HOMETOWN …
Born in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
ON EVERY TRIP I MUST BRING …
- At least two backup batteries
- Foldable slippers for long-haul flights
- Reusable water bottle
3 FAVORITE HOME-AWAY-FROM-HOME PLACES …
- Upstate NY (my parents live here)
- Florida (I went to college here)
- Vegas (I love it here, and I don’t gamble!)
A FAVORITE TRAVEL MEMORY …
Renting a paddleboat in the South of France at Lac de Sainte-Croix on a sunny July afternoon. It was the first moment I felt truly relaxed and wasn’t thinking about what was coming next or any other concerns.
3 FAVORITE TRAVEL BRANDS …
- JetBlue because they have the most legroom in coach, a TV on the back of every screen, and healthy snacks.
- Keen because their hiking boots completely saved me on a 10-mile backpacking trip to Havasu Falls. I was limping after, but at least I was still walking.
- Expedia because I’ve been using them for years, they always have competitive rates for members, and I like that I can accrue points to use as a discount anytime.
3 MONEY-SAVING TRAVEL TACTICS I USE …
- Signing up for flight alerts. I have been a member of Scott’s Cheap flights for years and recommend it to lazy travelers who don’t want to bother with extensive searching or points and miles and just want deals straight to their inbox
- Using a travel credit card. At this point, it pains me to pay for anything with debit because I know I’m not making anything off that purchase. Since I discovered the world of travel hacking, I make all big purchases strategically with the goal of getting a free flight out of it.
- Taking advantage of all things “free.” Free walking tours, free admission after a certain hour or on a certain day, free bike rentals, free shows and concerts. You’d be surprised by how much there is available.
3 WAYS THAT I HAVE FUN WHILE TRAVELING …
- Staying curious. Everywhere has something to offer if you’re open-minded and willing to learn.
- Talking to people. This is why I travel solo — when I don’t have a buffer of a friend or family member I’m forced to interact with others. I have to speak their language, rely on their help, and make conversation with them or not at all. It is immersive and a completely different experience.
- Eating. I love trying fancy foods around the world and treating myself. Usually, I have a happy dance that comes out for the particularly delectable morsels.
8 WORD (OR LESS) TRAVEL MANTRA …
“This will make a great story one day.”
FAVORITE NON-TRAVEL WEBSITE …
Audible. I’ve swapped out the news for audiobooks in the morning and it has made a huge difference in my outlook and mood.
MOST MEMORABLE SOUVENIR …
I like to buy dresses wherever I go. It’s so fun when someone asks you where you got it from and you’re like “oh, this old thing? Thailand.”
FAVORITE CHEAP EAT …
I love trying street food and going to different markets. Meat on a stick is always a win for me.
RECENT DISCOVERY …
I recently discovered the life changing magic of flying first class. Now, at the very least I try to fly Economy Plus. It does make a difference.
I AM FORTUNATE TO HAVE MET …
David Copperfield. I was his magician’s assistant once and was asked to hold a scorpion on stage.
I WOULD LIKE TO MEET …
Michelle Obama. Nuff’ said.
Thank you so much, Jen, for sharing your travel advice and inspiration.
Follow Jen Ruiz on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, and her website Jen on a Jet Plane.
McCool Travel presents tips from travel experts in our 5 Minutes travel interview series—featuring travel industry giants, super frequent travelers, and adventurous persons.
Previous 5 Minutes travel interview: Nora Dunn, The Professional Hobo.