First few trips to Europe I bought a $19 watch from Sportsman Guide to keep my $500 watch at home , I still wear it everyday and I sold the expensive watch. I travel with solid toiletries. I have purchased a complete wardrobe at a thrift store to avoid doing laundry and donate the discarded items to people on my way through a country, there are people that need things and Europeans don't care what you wear, you are on holiday. Trying to fit in is ridiculous they know you are American. I don't but souvenirs anymore, saves space. Thanks for your video.
2:14 "You can use your hands...that you were born with" made me laugh! A peer was telling me I should invest in a phone stand because its convient, but even on a long flight, I see it as another thing to carry. However, I would like to replay or do the 'hold for 2x speed' feature, so holding the phone is more convenient.
Thanks for the comment! I agree, there are times that it might come in handy, but in the end it is just another thing to bring. Appreciate the support!
Former business traveler here: experienced travelers understand that gear is a means to an end. You buy gear because it enables you to do something. Unfortunately there are millions of RUclips channels and influencers dedicated to selling the idea that a one a year leisure traveler needs all this expensive travel gear.
Great quote "Gear is a means to and end." Ugh I know...I am sure I will be making other videos about all the gear I love and enjoy. But I will do my best to hold true to the value that less is more. Hard to decipher between what is an ad or truly valuable these days. I appreciate your insight as a former business traveler. I am sure you have a wealth of travel knowledge!
Thanks so much! 😊 Appreciate the kind words. I am sure I will have other videos about gadgets and products to buy, but I think if we all try to bring less it just makes the whole experience better.
I find the thesis of this is very good. You don't need "all the things from Amazon" when you travel, but I do still like watching travel guides/purchase lists as it gives me ideas on how to make my next trip that much more efficient and easy. Personally, I take the things that will make my stay easy. I bring my own soap, as my skin doesn't like hotel stuff, and I don't feel the need to buy it again "when I arrive". I bring a small sound machine (that is not my phone) as I am a light sleeper and it helps me sleep better in hotel environments. The more you travel the more you learn about what you need against what you don't need. Being thoughtful about what you do bring is just as important as what you don't.
I'm an infrequent Foreign traveller, but will be headed overseas in early December mostly for work. I will be working several days while away. I have collected a bunch of things I think I might like to use while away, but I will be seriously reducing the crap I'm taking by eliminating most or all of my what-if items. Since my trip is essentially a trip home, I know I can easily get the personal items I'll need down there so that makes it easy. The Rest is just being disciplined about what I will actually use regularly while away.
Thanks for the thoughtful comment. If you can eliminate those what if items it helps so much 😁! Appreciate you watching the video. I hope your trip goes smooth!
Doing laundry on vacation is a game changer! You save so much room by packing fewer clothes and don't need fancy merino wool stuff. I've had good luck finding a laundromat or dry cleaner near my hotel, even better if they offer wash + fold service so you can go have fun and pick up the next day. It's less likely they'll speak English since they cater to locals, but you don't need much. As for workout clothes, unless you absolutely can't go without working out while on vacation, skipping them is a good way to pack lighter. I agree on not bringing too many shoes, but don't skimp on the second pair! If it rains they can a while to dry.
Except on a cruise many ships don’t have guest laundry facilities. And they charge a ton to do it for you. I try to wear things that are easily washed in the sink.
Sharing a video is about the highest honor you can receive! Thank you so much for the support. Glad you enjoyed. I hope the travel tips are helpful to your friends.
😂 My husband travels the world for work - often. Sometimes he’s gone six weeks at a time and visits multiple countries. His toiletry bag of choice is a ziplock. His back pack is a little more expensive, but not top of the line. It’s lasted 10 years, so far. Anything lass than two full weeks, he packs in a carry on and his back pack. He does not buy all the gadgets or latest travel “need”. He’s not a minimalist, just doesn’t bother with things he doesn’t need.
Oh and I use cheap in ear blue tooth headphones. I also use my $30 smart watch at home and on vacation. I spent extra on my back pack and cross body bag just to make them more theft proof. I have to take toiletries and laundry detergent with my because I am allergic to most regular brands. It makes packing light a little harder. I wish I could find some great unscented, hypoallergenic solid alternatives.
7:00, just a comment here if relying on only Credit Cards....not all credit cards are acceptable across the globe (not many European countries will accept AmEx, China wont take Master Card, etc.). Please check that your destination accepts your preferred card before you travel and get stuck.
I flew to Europe in coach a few weeks ago. I watched lots of RUclips videos prior to going. Ended up with a carry on and a backpack.(that was a first for me! I always overpack. Even with traveling for 4 weeks in a carry on and backpack…I still took to much). I purchased a “foot sling” excellent purchase!! It helped so much! (I’m 5’3”) the other thing I was so glad I purchased was the airplane table cover. It held all my gadgets without putting them in the dirty seat back pouch. Blow up neck pillow and thin blanket, chewable tooth paste, shampoo and conditioner bars (they were ok. nice because you dont have to deal with liquids but a little awkward to use on long hair, but works. My hair was soft when using it ,so that was a plus.) I also purchased a small zip up jewelry box. I don’t usually wear jewelry but I used that thing so much! My next trip I will take half the amount of cloths, making a wardrobe that could be mixed and matched is the key. You can always buy cloths when you travel. I wish I would have had more room to bring back cloths from Europe. He is right, if you don’t use it at home you’re not going to use it on vacation.
Amazing insight from a recent trip! Thanks so much for the travel insights. It is rich and informative comments like this that help other travelers. Great to hear that you liked the foot sling. We have one also. It has been nice to use on certain trips. I appreciate the thoughts on the solid shampoo and conditioner. Clothes are always hard. My wife tells me I have a little easier when creating a travel wardrobe. Which I totally understand. Thanks again for a the great comment!
We are leaving in a few days to go on a Seine River cruise. We are packing and let me just say you make perfect sense! We have been known to over pack and we are scaling waayy back this time! We always think about what we would like to look like but in reality no one else cares so instead of impressing others we are going to try and make it easy on ourselves.
You nailed it. I only use compression bags to zip up my underwear. I find rolling my clothes just easier to deal with..I use a roller board and underseat bag. And if I need to compress the clothes, then I have too many! Hanging toiletry bag stays packed and replenished after each trip. Yes to merino!!!! A good cashmere sweater/pancho is a lifesaver on long flights.
Just got a pair of the Raybans. Going to do a video on how and why to travel with them. Thanks for the comment! Any use cases for the meta glasses that you really enjoy while traveling!?
@JustBookedIt Good, hands-free way to record walks thru town or thru the Acropolis, in cathedrals (even some respectful but contraband basiloca photos because no flash, sshh). Or driving on switchbacks! Eyes forward, people. I used them kayaking in the mangrove tunnels with my dog, and they do very well! Just as good as the galaxy fold on standard mode. The stereo sound worked fine on the plane and don't pop out of my must-be-misshapened ears. Just wish I didn't look like Buddy Holly wearing them, lol
I’m with you. I always swore I would never be one of those old ladies that cut their hair just because they were getting old. However, several years ago, my daughter talked me into donating my extremely long hair. I couldn’t believe the difference! I now keep my hair short short. So much easier while I’m traveling.
My hearing aids have Bluetooth (paired with my phone) so it's convenient if that's how the entertainment is delivered. Also quiet for neighbours on the plane! But I do miss my trusty Bose noise cancelling headphones. Thanks for great content. New subscriber in Canada ❤
That is a nice feature! Have you tried one of those bluetooth connectors that plug into the plane entertainment system with your hear aids? That would be so cool if they just connected for you. Nothing like a good pair of noise canceling headphones. Thanks for subscribing! That means a ton ❤️. A friendly Canadian is always welcome into the community!
Thanks for the comment! Ah glad you saw the humor. I do my best to work that in there to keep it engaging as well as informative! Appreciate the support.
Great video for a change. And what an eye opener. I'm one that has fallen several times to the Diderot effect. My God. Anyway. I'm about to start flying more often and I've been considering my options for travel essentials, and one of the things that has become more and more important is to try to squeeze as much life to the things I already own, like my Travelpro 2-wheel carry-on bag, which I'd love to have a 4 or 8-wheeler to navigate narrow aircraft isles, but No. I've had it for 3 years and is still going strong. So, unless it breaks, I'll keep using it. Same with many other things. I was also considering a Bellroy sling, which cost over $140 to carry my essentials and my camera + 1 lens (is a small system), but you brought the Tomtoc name, and I have had very good experience with Tomtoc before, especially saving money, so I'll start researching on it now. Finally, for the last part of the video I can see you favor in-ears over over-ears, and I agree is a great space saver, although for longer trips, nothing beats my Bose QuietComfort II. Is an older model but still works fine. In noise canceling mode it can shut down most of the engine noise for well over 8 hours, more than enough for the 5-6 hours sleep you get in long haul flights. I've had emptied my iPods pro more than once, and it'll interrupt my sleep when in need for a charge. So depending on the flight duration I'll bring my Bose over-ears. Thanks again for a great travel video. You just got a new subscriber.
Appreciate that. Sometimes it takes me 3-4 hours of work to put in a small joke like that. Awesome to know it got someone to smile. Thanks again for the comment!
@ Loving the channel! You’re putting unique information out there that’s setting you apart from other early retirement/slow travel/expat channels. Keep it going!
I have the blue hills thinner blanket and never take a trip without it. It is so warm and light I use it under the hotel sheets as it’s big enough to cover and snuggle with. Well worth the slight inconvenience of packing. Plane blankets aren’t washed frequently, so gross!
Didn't pull the trigger on a drone before a trip. Did some research and figured I wouldn't have enough time to actually fly it for it to be worth the valuable carryon space it'll use. Still enjoyed my vacation.
You are definitely a well seasoned traveler. Could not have said it better myself! Over ear headphones on long flights are a game changer. Worth the extra room in my opinion. Appreciate the thoughtful comment!
I don't like needing to charge stuff. I like wired earphones. Personally, I use Shure SE215 Pro earphones and a Fosi Audio DS2 USB-C portable headphone DAC. It works with my phone/iPad Mini and the aircraft entertainment system.
Great travel tip! There is something to be said about traveling with wired headphones. Not waiting for Bluetooth items to pair or wasting time with that. Just plug in and go. Appreciate the thoughtful comment! Happy travels!
Another great video. I tend to immediately go out and buy every item that looks like a great idea, only to find out that I never use them. 🤦♀️ (except for the gravel containers, they really are the best out there)
Thank you so much for the kind words about the video! Much appreciated. Yes I am guilty of getting the gadgets also. We have loved them also. Been given a hard time in a few of the comments about the cost of them. But having containers that do not leak is worth paying for.
There are non-negotiable core essentials regardless of type or mode of travel, and then there's the bit of expanded one depending if you're flying by air/land/sea 😁 Also... travelling off grid. I do agree that it's pretty useless to bring a lot of items just for a short flight/drive/boat ride. Also, not to bring items you never even use at home. I used to bring a lot of cameras, but I upgraded my phone and just use that for the last few years. The shaved off weight is very appreciated 😊 I'm also a casio user but recently got a basic garmin for tracking my "slow jogging" journey. I don't want the added stress, so all phone notifs were disabled. Anyway, best travel tip is to keep it simple and just enjoy the journey and the misadventures. 😊
You summed up the video in one paragraph! Amazing. Appreciate the thoughtful and insightful comment. You are correct when it comes to the core essentials. How you expand off of that depends on many factors. Hopefully a few helpful gadgets, but keeping the weight and overall extra things to a minimum is usually best! The best tip you gave that I left out is silencing those notifications. I know some people love it, but feel so much more connected with what I am doing when I do not have my wrist buzzing. Happy travels and thank you for being here!
Fabric spray. If my clothes are just a little smelly, spraying them is easier, faster, and cheaper than washing. Except underpants. Wash those every wear.
Don’t skip on liquids containers. I have had to clean up messes in my luggage from leaks or spills. I tend to buy mid priced items. Love all of my merino wool and alpaca clothing, even my alpaca compression stockings. I wear them most days and when traveling. Worth the investment, but it is an investment. I have been an over ear headphones when traveling. I couldn’t find the same noise canceling quality until I bought the Bose Bluetooth quite earbud ones. I think for long flights I will take both to give my ears a break.
Such good advice I should have mentioned! Thank you for the reminder. That is a solid way to ruin a great trip. I will have to check out the alpaca compression stockings. I agree on the over ear headphone experience. So nice to have those on certain flights. Thanks for commenting and watching!
Very experienced traveller, everything from 5* to hostels and I agree with most of your comments. However I do NEED a hairdryer for my fine, thinning hair, so I have a teeny-tiny one that folds up super small for when I'm in budget accommodation. I rewired the plug to an EU one to save space (UK plug plus adapter is v bulky).
I very rarely travel with toiletries other than deodorant and toothpaste/toothbrush and just use whatever the hotel provides as it's usually decent enough quality. Only exception is if I'm taking a cruise I'll usually bring some items that are a bit more hydrating for my skin. I'll always bring my AirPods over my Over the Head headphones unless I'm doing a long haul domestic/international flight. I'm with you on the watch, I usually just leave the Apple Watch at home and rock my older G-Shock from the Mid-2000's that's still going strong. In terms of shoes I'll wear my every day athletic shoes on the flight and usually stuff a pair of flip flops/sandals in my luggage to roam around the hotel property. Capsule wardrobe is a must, a couple bottoms with a few tops and I'm set for about a week. Definitely have a pair of underwear and socks for each day though plus one extra of each in case something terrible happens.
I use over the ear noise canceling headphones but I will buy noise canceling earbuds eventually. I love how well the headphones work but I don’t like the bulk. I’m always trying to take less stuff and the smallest stuff possible.
Less is always more! But you can't beat that noise cancelling over ear experience on a long flight. Thanks for weighing in on the conversation. Appreciate the support!
Totally agree on not needing all that travel gear! 🙌🏻 But…. you got me 😂…..where did you get that laser keyboard & is it any good? Plus the lint roller? I dont see them in your description section nor your Amazon storefront. I am a Timex watch girlie for travel. I do take wired headphones for most trips…but for long-haul (like my next trip - which will be 23hrs of flying on 2 planes) I take overear Noise Cxl headphones (that also have the capability of wiring into the onboard tv.) 📸 Request please with regards to camera equipment: I am heading on a solo trip to Kenya in January 2025 (family are staying home) and I don’t have room or weight capacity for a heavy DSLR camera & lenses (I have max. 7kg for ALL my gear & it will be a carry-on backpack only for 3 weeks travel). So I would TOTALLY love ❤ to see a post from you on how to properly use an iPhone, when traveling, and the gadgets to help you achieve that! For example, how do you back up your precious iphone photos & videos when you’re somewhere remote and there is no Wi-Fi to upload to the cloud? (i.e. in some places I will be in the middle of nowhere & they only have generators for electricity at camp). Also, do you know of any good iPhone lens equipment/clips to help take long range photos/video….for example, when I’m in a safari jeep and there’s a lion 🦁 or rhino 🦏 off in the distance that I want to take a photo of? A 100 foot selfie stick would be frowned upon in that scenario….or eaten! 😂 So perhaps you could do a post on that 🙏 💋…..especially since you obviously are extremely good at photography, videos & editing. 🎉 P.S. I had to laugh at your Harry Potter Wand…my kiddo got one of those on our last trip together too. You just cant say “No” to that ever so sweet & excited kiddo’s face when they are told that “they are the chosen one!” 🧙♀️ By the way, Happy Canadian 🇨🇦 Thanksgiving to any Canucks watching this wonderful channel.
What an amazing thoughtful comment! Thank you. -I updated the link in the bottom of the description of the video. The very last one has our amazon store front with the lint roller. -I can not in good conscious put that keyboard in our store haha. If you search laser keyboard on amazon it comes up. I hard to return it though. It was very gimmicky. I am sure I will feature it again on the channel, but as a bit of a joke. If you find a good one please do message me! Kenya! Amazing. Wow, that is a bucket list trip for my family and I. I am sure it will be amazing. Great idea for a video. I will do some research on this for sure. 😂 yes the harry potter wand. I mean you really can't say no. They did play with it for a bit. But now it just gathers dust. Worth it for the joy it brought them for a few days. Thanks again for the absolutely amazing comment! Appreciate you being here.
@@JustBookedIt I just went to your Amazon storefront to buy the lint roller….but alas they dont ship to Canada. 😏 Anyway, thank you for adding the link. Have a great week!
eSIMs are a great substitute for wifi (I recommend Mobimatter over Airalo - better bang for your buck), plus points if you get a local SIM card though. Their rates are often better.
I bought a flap stand to replace the bulkier clip one I had for a smaller footprint in my bag. My travels are almost always more than 4 hours so holding my phone for that long is a no-go. 😅 I have small ears but prefer using earbuds (wired or wireless). I find that headphones give me headaches because they're either resting too heavily on my head, or because I feel like my head is being clamped. I have yet to find one that I can use comfortably for extended periods but I also feel shopping for one model after another to find the perfect one is a waste of my money.
DECOY PURSE- esp at home, I have a small purse with old phone, key fob from a totaled car, fake wallet with a few dollars, nonspecific Rx card, credit card I found and called the company to cancel, nothing with my name or address. Put your puffy coat in an empty neck pillow. I MUST have a pocket camera with crazy long zoom. It’s like binoculars and takes great photos. Apple Watch? I do whatever the f I want. I don’t need someone tracking my steps and my phone does that anyway.
Currently in SE Asia, large tiens and cities so not what I would call remote. We are needing lots of cash as Mastercard and Visa rarely accepted, and if they are, they need the actual card to insert. Very rarely do they offer tap and go so therefore I can't use phone or watch to pay. Plus they often charge 2 to 3% extra to use card.
Thanks for sharing this info. Also in Australia, many vendors add a percentage (1.5-2 percent) for non-cash purchases. In Canada and the USA, this would be a shocker, but when you really think about it, why should people paying cash share the vendor's cost of accepting cards? Just a thought.
@@karenrobertson1944 cash has a cost as well. The time to reconcile; the security required; and the cost of pick up and delivery. In Australia the cash delivery company "Armaguard" was almost insolvent and needed the banks to help it out of financial difficulty. Some businesses are ripping off customers by charging so much for credit and debit card transactions, but you can be sure the banks are making big profits on both card and cash transactions.
Apart from having a pretty tight budget and wanting to see as many places as I can while I can, I try very hard not to give Bezos any of my money - he has enough. It's pretty boring to watch a video and all they've done is gone shopping on Amazon, so it's great to shift the focus on what we don't need. I bought a $20 Timex from Walmart that lights up so I never miss back on board time even if my phone isn't connected - it's the only jewelry I travel with. Always some small bills USD or Euros for tips, a coffee, and washroom access as well as a small stash just in case. I use large ziploc bags instead of compression bags - more versatile and you can see exactly what is where. And as others have mentioned, you can try to look European all you like, but the fact that you aren't sure where you're going, you have to think about what coin is worth what, and you don't speak the language like a native, are all going to stand out much more than if you're wearing running shoes! :)
Thanks for the thoughtful and insightful travel tips! I agree on the amazon stuff. Hard not to use because it is so easy, but if we lean into things we already have you have more to spend on your trip! Great tip for the zip lock bags. So nice to be able to see what you have packed without opening up a packing cube. Appreciate you being a part of our travel community!
Cash- I hit a huge rock (rental car) that fell into the road during an ice storm, lost all the engine oil. A kindly excon took four of us 40 miles to the airport, in an ice storm, and he couldn't have taken a credit card. We gave him a lot of cash. 80 miles for him on icy roads.
Didn't pull the trigger on a drone before a trip. Did some research and figured I wouldn't have enough time to actually fly it for it to be worth the valuable carryon space it'll use. Still enjoyed my vacation.
First few trips to Europe I bought a $19 watch from Sportsman Guide to keep my $500 watch at home , I still wear it everyday and I sold the expensive watch. I travel with solid toiletries. I have purchased a complete wardrobe at a thrift store to avoid doing laundry and donate the discarded items to people on my way through a country, there are people that need things and Europeans don't care what you wear, you are on holiday. Trying to fit in is ridiculous they know you are American. I don't but souvenirs anymore, saves space. Thanks for your video.
2:14 "You can use your hands...that you were born with" made me laugh! A peer was telling me I should invest in a phone stand because its convient, but even on a long flight, I see it as another thing to carry. However, I would like to replay or do the 'hold for 2x speed' feature, so holding the phone is more convenient.
Thanks for the comment! I agree, there are times that it might come in handy, but in the end it is just another thing to bring. Appreciate the support!
Sunglasses make a simple iphone stand. Duel purpose.
Former business traveler here: experienced travelers understand that gear is a means to an end. You buy gear because it enables you to do something. Unfortunately there are millions of RUclips channels and influencers dedicated to selling the idea that a one a year leisure traveler needs all this expensive travel gear.
Great quote "Gear is a means to and end." Ugh I know...I am sure I will be making other videos about all the gear I love and enjoy. But I will do my best to hold true to the value that less is more. Hard to decipher between what is an ad or truly valuable these days.
I appreciate your insight as a former business traveler. I am sure you have a wealth of travel knowledge!
Excellent video about no haul or limited cost hauls. Love the idea if you don’t use it at home, you’re not going to use it on the trip.
Thanks so much! 😊 Appreciate the kind words. I am sure I will have other videos about gadgets and products to buy, but I think if we all try to bring less it just makes the whole experience better.
i use a pencil case for my cords etc. I use multi end cords that work for everything. saves time and space
And dollar stores are a perfect place to find a pencil case you like!
Over ear…worth the space they take. Good sound management and clear sign to fellow travelers!
haha clear sign to fell travelers- "leave me alone"
I find the thesis of this is very good. You don't need "all the things from Amazon" when you travel, but I do still like watching travel guides/purchase lists as it gives me ideas on how to make my next trip that much more efficient and easy. Personally, I take the things that will make my stay easy. I bring my own soap, as my skin doesn't like hotel stuff, and I don't feel the need to buy it again "when I arrive". I bring a small sound machine (that is not my phone) as I am a light sleeper and it helps me sleep better in hotel environments. The more you travel the more you learn about what you need against what you don't need. Being thoughtful about what you do bring is just as important as what you don't.
I'm an infrequent Foreign traveller, but will be headed overseas in early December mostly for work. I will be working several days while away. I have collected a bunch of things I think I might like to use while away, but I will be seriously reducing the crap I'm taking by eliminating most or all of my what-if items. Since my trip is essentially a trip home, I know I can easily get the personal items I'll need down there so that makes it easy. The Rest is just being disciplined about what I will actually use regularly while away.
Thanks for the thoughtful comment. If you can eliminate those what if items it helps so much 😁! Appreciate you watching the video. I hope your trip goes smooth!
Doing laundry on vacation is a game changer! You save so much room by packing fewer clothes and don't need fancy merino wool stuff. I've had good luck finding a laundromat or dry cleaner near my hotel, even better if they offer wash + fold service so you can go have fun and pick up the next day. It's less likely they'll speak English since they cater to locals, but you don't need much. As for workout clothes, unless you absolutely can't go without working out while on vacation, skipping them is a good way to pack lighter. I agree on not bringing too many shoes, but don't skimp on the second pair! If it rains they can a while to dry.
I agree, but I just hand wash everything. Dr Beckmann laundry sheets are great and make your bag smell nice too!
Except on a cruise many ships don’t have guest laundry facilities. And they charge a ton to do it for you. I try to wear things that are easily washed in the sink.
Shared this video to my friends who are just about to start going into traveling. Really helpful! Thanks a lot! ❤
Sharing a video is about the highest honor you can receive! Thank you so much for the support. Glad you enjoyed. I hope the travel tips are helpful to your friends.
😂 My husband travels the world for work - often. Sometimes he’s gone six weeks at a time and visits multiple countries. His toiletry bag of choice is a ziplock. His back pack is a little more expensive, but not top of the line. It’s lasted 10 years, so far. Anything lass than two full weeks, he packs in a carry on and his back pack. He does not buy all the gadgets or latest travel “need”. He’s not a minimalist, just doesn’t bother with things he doesn’t need.
Oh and I use cheap in ear blue tooth headphones. I also use my $30 smart watch at home and on vacation. I spent extra on my back pack and cross body bag just to make them more theft proof. I have to take toiletries and laundry detergent with my because I am allergic to most regular brands. It makes packing light a little harder. I wish I could find some great unscented, hypoallergenic solid alternatives.
7:00, just a comment here if relying on only Credit Cards....not all credit cards are acceptable across the globe (not many European countries will accept AmEx, China wont take Master Card, etc.). Please check that your destination accepts your preferred card before you travel and get stuck.
Thanks! That was what I needed to hear! Just took the big zoom lens out of my bag and put the little 55-210 in!
Awesome! Glad it helped! Hope you have an amazing trip. ✈️
I flew to Europe in coach a few weeks ago. I watched lots of RUclips videos prior to going. Ended up with a carry on and a backpack.(that was a first for me! I always overpack. Even with traveling for 4 weeks in a carry on and backpack…I still took to much). I purchased a “foot sling” excellent purchase!! It helped so much! (I’m 5’3”) the other thing I was so glad I purchased was the airplane table cover. It held all my gadgets without putting them in the dirty seat back pouch. Blow up neck pillow and thin blanket, chewable tooth paste, shampoo and conditioner bars (they were ok. nice because you dont have to deal with liquids but a little awkward to use on long hair, but works. My hair was soft when using it ,so that was a plus.) I also purchased a small zip up jewelry box. I don’t usually wear jewelry but I used that thing so much! My next trip I will take half the amount of cloths, making a wardrobe that could be mixed and matched is the key. You can always buy cloths when you travel. I wish I would have had more room to bring back cloths from Europe.
He is right, if you don’t use it at home you’re not going to use it on vacation.
Amazing insight from a recent trip! Thanks so much for the travel insights. It is rich and informative comments like this that help other travelers.
Great to hear that you liked the foot sling. We have one also. It has been nice to use on certain trips. I appreciate the thoughts on the solid shampoo and conditioner.
Clothes are always hard. My wife tells me I have a little easier when creating a travel wardrobe. Which I totally understand.
Thanks again for a the great comment!
We are leaving in a few days to go on a Seine River cruise. We are packing and let me just say you make perfect sense! We have been known to over pack and we are scaling waayy back this time! We always think about what we would like to look like but in reality no one else cares so instead of impressing others we are going to try and make it easy on ourselves.
You nailed it. I only use compression bags to zip up my underwear. I find rolling my clothes just easier to deal with..I use a roller board and underseat bag. And if I need to compress the clothes, then I have too many! Hanging toiletry bag stays packed and replenished after each trip. Yes to merino!!!! A good cashmere sweater/pancho is a lifesaver on long flights.
😂 I laughed a lot thru this video but I really learned a lot too!
Amazing! Humor with a little education was the goal. Thanks for the kind comment.
Neither earbuds nor over ear - I loved traveling with my rayban meta glasses!
Just got a pair of the Raybans. Going to do a video on how and why to travel with them. Thanks for the comment! Any use cases for the meta glasses that you really enjoy while traveling!?
@JustBookedIt Good, hands-free way to record walks thru town or thru the Acropolis, in cathedrals (even some respectful but contraband basiloca photos because no flash, sshh).
Or driving on switchbacks! Eyes forward, people.
I used them kayaking in the mangrove tunnels with my dog, and they do very well! Just as good as the galaxy fold on standard mode.
The stereo sound worked fine on the plane and don't pop out of my must-be-misshapened ears.
Just wish I didn't look like Buddy Holly wearing them, lol
Today I came across your video and I have to say great video!!! I pack minimalist but love learning how I can do better. Thanks for the laugh.
That means a ton! Thank you so much for the kind comment. Minimal packing is the way to go. Thanks for watching and supporting the channel.
Lol, I wish that hotels provided hair straighteners! 👍😄
Yes sorry about that! Maybe some airbnbs, but I misspoke on the straighteners. Thanks for keeping me honest!
@@JustBookedIt Oh no harm at all, it just struck me that I would love to have straighteners provided! :D
I’m with you. I always swore I would never be one of those old ladies that cut their hair just because they were getting old. However, several years ago, my daughter talked me into donating my extremely long hair. I couldn’t believe the difference! I now keep my hair short short. So much easier while I’m traveling.
In ear AirPods for shorter or daytime travel. But if I’m flying a red eye, prefer my over the ear headphones with Noise cancelling.
My hearing aids have Bluetooth (paired with my phone) so it's convenient if that's how the entertainment is delivered. Also quiet for neighbours on the plane! But I do miss my trusty Bose noise cancelling headphones. Thanks for great content. New subscriber in Canada ❤
That is a nice feature! Have you tried one of those bluetooth connectors that plug into the plane entertainment system with your hear aids? That would be so cool if they just connected for you.
Nothing like a good pair of noise canceling headphones. Thanks for subscribing! That means a ton ❤️. A friendly Canadian is always welcome into the community!
Air buds you can’t beat the size, I chuckled numerous times watching your offering today - love your approach. 😊
Thanks for the comment! Ah glad you saw the humor. I do my best to work that in there to keep it engaging as well as informative! Appreciate the support.
My ears has funny size, haven’t found any plugs that felt comfortable yet.
Another use for your coconut oil: bug repellent! Bugs HATE coconut
Interesting. I never heard of that before. Thanks for the thoughtful comment!
I always journal when I travel. Never at home. Home is boring
Great counter point! Appreciate the thoughtful comment.
Me too! 💙✈️🌎
I do both 😂😂
Great video for a change. And what an eye opener. I'm one that has fallen several times to the Diderot effect. My God. Anyway. I'm about to start flying more often and I've been considering my options for travel essentials, and one of the things that has become more and more important is to try to squeeze as much life to the things I already own, like my Travelpro 2-wheel carry-on bag, which I'd love to have a 4 or 8-wheeler to navigate narrow aircraft isles, but No. I've had it for 3 years and is still going strong. So, unless it breaks, I'll keep using it. Same with many other things. I was also considering a Bellroy sling, which cost over $140 to carry my essentials and my camera + 1 lens (is a small system), but you brought the Tomtoc name, and I have had very good experience with Tomtoc before, especially saving money, so I'll start researching on it now. Finally, for the last part of the video I can see you favor in-ears over over-ears, and I agree is a great space saver, although for longer trips, nothing beats my Bose QuietComfort II. Is an older model but still works fine. In noise canceling mode it can shut down most of the engine noise for well over 8 hours, more than enough for the 5-6 hours sleep you get in long haul flights. I've had emptied my iPods pro more than once, and it'll interrupt my sleep when in need for a charge. So depending on the flight duration I'll bring my Bose over-ears. Thanks again for a great travel video. You just got a new subscriber.
Loved the Weezy cameo haha.
Appreciate that. Sometimes it takes me 3-4 hours of work to put in a small joke like that. Awesome to know it got someone to smile. Thanks again for the comment!
@ Loving the channel! You’re putting unique information out there that’s setting you apart from other early retirement/slow travel/expat channels. Keep it going!
I use an old toilet bag for my tech stuff. It has various sections and pockets. I don't need to buy a special bag.
Buying less and repurposing is a great call! Thanks for the travel tip.
I have the blue hills thinner blanket and never take a trip without it. It is so warm and light I use it under the hotel sheets as it’s big enough to cover and snuggle with. Well worth the slight inconvenience of packing. Plane blankets aren’t washed frequently, so gross!
I will have to look into the blue hills blanket. If a blanket is important for long trips it is nice to have one!
Great video. 😂. And I am such a gear head/shopper. I have a hard time holding back. Lordy! 🙄🤣
And…both AirPods AND headphones. They are great in different situations (yeah, AirPods would ok but I like both). 😂
Ugh I know! Trust me. I love a good travel gadget!
haha yeah I am guilty of bringing both sometimes also!
I LOVE your videos! Hilarious!
Didn't pull the trigger on a drone before a trip. Did some research and figured I wouldn't have enough time to actually fly it for it to be worth the valuable carryon space it'll use. Still enjoyed my vacation.
I use airpod for 1-3h flights and Sony headphones for 5+ h flights
You are definitely a well seasoned traveler. Could not have said it better myself! Over ear headphones on long flights are a game changer. Worth the extra room in my opinion. Appreciate the thoughtful comment!
I have two pairs of AirPods which I rotate through while on long trips.
@@lesf5792why rotating the same ?
@@stephanem5125 2 pairs. Battery dies on 1, switch to the other. And so on.
I don't like needing to charge stuff. I like wired earphones. Personally, I use Shure SE215 Pro earphones and a Fosi Audio DS2 USB-C portable headphone DAC. It works with my phone/iPad Mini and the aircraft entertainment system.
Great travel tip! There is something to be said about traveling with wired headphones. Not waiting for Bluetooth items to pair or wasting time with that. Just plug in and go. Appreciate the thoughtful comment! Happy travels!
Another great video. I tend to immediately go out and buy every item that looks like a great idea, only to find out that I never use them. 🤦♀️ (except for the gravel containers, they really are the best out there)
Thank you so much for the kind words about the video! Much appreciated.
Yes I am guilty of getting the gadgets also.
We have loved them also. Been given a hard time in a few of the comments about the cost of them. But having containers that do not leak is worth paying for.
There are non-negotiable core essentials regardless of type or mode of travel, and then there's the bit of expanded one depending if you're flying by air/land/sea 😁 Also... travelling off grid. I do agree that it's pretty useless to bring a lot of items just for a short flight/drive/boat ride. Also, not to bring items you never even use at home. I used to bring a lot of cameras, but I upgraded my phone and just use that for the last few years. The shaved off weight is very appreciated 😊 I'm also a casio user but recently got a basic garmin for tracking my "slow jogging" journey. I don't want the added stress, so all phone notifs were disabled. Anyway, best travel tip is to keep it simple and just enjoy the journey and the misadventures. 😊
You summed up the video in one paragraph! Amazing. Appreciate the thoughtful and insightful comment. You are correct when it comes to the core essentials. How you expand off of that depends on many factors. Hopefully a few helpful gadgets, but keeping the weight and overall extra things to a minimum is usually best!
The best tip you gave that I left out is silencing those notifications. I know some people love it, but feel so much more connected with what I am doing when I do not have my wrist buzzing. Happy travels and thank you for being here!
Fabric spray. If my clothes are just a little smelly, spraying them is easier, faster, and cheaper than washing. Except underpants. Wash those every wear.
Spraying alcohol on the clothes will kill the smell too, a theatre trick apparently
Great idea! I will have to give this a try.
Don’t skip on liquids containers. I have had to clean up messes in my luggage from leaks or spills. I tend to buy mid priced items. Love all of my merino wool and alpaca clothing, even my alpaca compression stockings. I wear them most days and when traveling. Worth the investment, but it is an investment. I have been an over ear headphones when traveling. I couldn’t find the same noise canceling quality until I bought the Bose Bluetooth quite earbud ones. I think for long flights I will take both to give my ears a break.
Such good advice I should have mentioned! Thank you for the reminder. That is a solid way to ruin a great trip.
I will have to check out the alpaca compression stockings.
I agree on the over ear headphone experience. So nice to have those on certain flights.
Thanks for commenting and watching!
Very helpful video. For once it is the other way around. What you don't need.
Thanks for the kind words! Happy traveling. 👌
In ear headphones
I take my Timex watch
Great choice! Thanks for being a part of our travel community.
Very experienced traveller, everything from 5* to hostels and I agree with most of your comments. However I do NEED a hairdryer for my fine, thinning hair, so I have a teeny-tiny one that folds up super small for when I'm in budget accommodation. I rewired the plug to an EU one to save space (UK plug plus adapter is v bulky).
I use mini Nalgene bottles to fill and refill with my liquid toiletries. They never leak!
What a great travel idea! I have not seen the mini Nalgene bottles. I will have to look those up. Appreciate the travel tip. Thanks for the support.
I hear you re how many shoes to bring. I just got back from a 3 week trip. I brought 3 pairs of shoes which was one pair too many.
Nice! Thanks for the comment. Two seems to be such a sweet spot. Hope you had a great three week trip!
I very rarely travel with toiletries other than deodorant and toothpaste/toothbrush and just use whatever the hotel provides as it's usually decent enough quality. Only exception is if I'm taking a cruise I'll usually bring some items that are a bit more hydrating for my skin.
I'll always bring my AirPods over my Over the Head headphones unless I'm doing a long haul domestic/international flight.
I'm with you on the watch, I usually just leave the Apple Watch at home and rock my older G-Shock from the Mid-2000's that's still going strong.
In terms of shoes I'll wear my every day athletic shoes on the flight and usually stuff a pair of flip flops/sandals in my luggage to roam around the hotel property.
Capsule wardrobe is a must, a couple bottoms with a few tops and I'm set for about a week. Definitely have a pair of underwear and socks for each day though plus one extra of each in case something terrible happens.
I use over the ear noise canceling headphones but I will buy noise canceling earbuds eventually. I love how well the headphones work but I don’t like the bulk. I’m always trying to take less stuff and the smallest stuff possible.
Less is always more! But you can't beat that noise cancelling over ear experience on a long flight. Thanks for weighing in on the conversation. Appreciate the support!
Totally agree on not needing all that travel gear! 🙌🏻 But…. you got me 😂…..where did you get that laser keyboard & is it any good? Plus the lint roller? I dont see them in your description section nor your Amazon storefront.
I am a Timex watch girlie for travel. I do take wired headphones for most trips…but for long-haul (like my next trip - which will be 23hrs of flying on 2 planes) I take overear Noise Cxl headphones (that also have the capability of wiring into the onboard tv.)
📸 Request please with regards to camera equipment: I am heading on a solo trip to Kenya in January 2025 (family are staying home) and I don’t have room or weight capacity for a heavy DSLR camera & lenses (I have max. 7kg for ALL my gear & it will be a carry-on backpack only for 3 weeks travel). So I would TOTALLY love ❤ to see a post from you on how to properly use an iPhone, when traveling, and the gadgets to help you achieve that! For example, how do you back up your precious iphone photos & videos when you’re somewhere remote and there is no Wi-Fi to upload to the cloud? (i.e. in some places I will be in the middle of nowhere & they only have generators for electricity at camp). Also, do you know of any good iPhone lens equipment/clips to help take long range photos/video….for example, when I’m in a safari jeep and there’s a lion 🦁 or rhino 🦏 off in the distance that I want to take a photo of? A 100 foot selfie stick would be frowned upon in that scenario….or eaten! 😂
So perhaps you could do a post on that 🙏 💋…..especially since you obviously are extremely good at photography, videos & editing. 🎉
P.S. I had to laugh at your Harry Potter Wand…my kiddo got one of those on our last trip together too. You just cant say “No” to that ever so sweet & excited kiddo’s face when they are told that “they are the chosen one!” 🧙♀️
By the way, Happy Canadian 🇨🇦 Thanksgiving to any Canucks watching this wonderful channel.
What an amazing thoughtful comment! Thank you.
-I updated the link in the bottom of the description of the video. The very last one has our amazon store front with the lint roller.
-I can not in good conscious put that keyboard in our store haha. If you search laser keyboard on amazon it comes up. I hard to return it though. It was very gimmicky. I am sure I will feature it again on the channel, but as a bit of a joke. If you find a good one please do message me!
Kenya! Amazing. Wow, that is a bucket list trip for my family and I. I am sure it will be amazing. Great idea for a video. I will do some research on this for sure.
😂 yes the harry potter wand. I mean you really can't say no. They did play with it for a bit. But now it just gathers dust. Worth it for the joy it brought them for a few days.
Thanks again for the absolutely amazing comment! Appreciate you being here.
@@JustBookedIt I just went to your Amazon storefront to buy the lint roller….but alas they dont ship to Canada. 😏 Anyway, thank you for adding the link. Have a great week!
eSIMs are a great substitute for wifi (I recommend Mobimatter over Airalo - better bang for your buck), plus points if you get a local SIM card though. Their rates are often better.
Men have it so much easier when it comes to packing.
Less than 4 hours - in-ear. Anything longer, over-ear. Both with ANC.
Great rule to stick with! Appreciate the comment.
I bought a flap stand to replace the bulkier clip one I had for a smaller footprint in my bag. My travels are almost always more than 4 hours so holding my phone for that long is a no-go. 😅
I have small ears but prefer using earbuds (wired or wireless). I find that headphones give me headaches because they're either resting too heavily on my head, or because I feel like my head is being clamped. I have yet to find one that I can use comfortably for extended periods but I also feel shopping for one model after another to find the perfect one is a waste of my money.
DECOY PURSE- esp at home, I have a small purse with old phone, key fob from a totaled car, fake wallet with a few dollars, nonspecific Rx card, credit card I found and called the company to cancel, nothing with my name or address. Put your puffy coat in an empty neck pillow. I MUST have a pocket camera with crazy long zoom. It’s like binoculars and takes great photos. Apple Watch? I do whatever the f I want. I don’t need someone tracking my steps and my phone does that anyway.
Love the Decoy purse option. Thanks for sharing your travel insights!
Over ear headphones.
Currently in SE Asia, large tiens and cities so not what I would call remote. We are needing lots of cash as Mastercard and Visa rarely accepted, and if they are, they need the actual card to insert. Very rarely do they offer tap and go so therefore I can't use phone or watch to pay. Plus they often charge 2 to 3% extra to use card.
Thanks for sharing this info. Also in Australia, many vendors add a percentage (1.5-2 percent) for non-cash purchases. In Canada and the USA, this would be a shocker, but when you really think about it, why should people paying cash share the vendor's cost of accepting cards? Just a thought.
@@karenrobertson1944 cash has a cost as well. The time to reconcile; the security required; and the cost of pick up and delivery. In Australia the cash delivery company "Armaguard" was almost insolvent and needed the banks to help it out of financial difficulty. Some businesses are ripping off customers by charging so much for credit and debit card transactions, but you can be sure the banks are making big profits on both card and cash transactions.
Apart from having a pretty tight budget and wanting to see as many places as I can while I can, I try very hard not to give Bezos any of my money - he has enough. It's pretty boring to watch a video and all they've done is gone shopping on Amazon, so it's great to shift the focus on what we don't need. I bought a $20 Timex from Walmart that lights up so I never miss back on board time even if my phone isn't connected - it's the only jewelry I travel with. Always some small bills USD or Euros for tips, a coffee, and washroom access as well as a small stash just in case. I use large ziploc bags instead of compression bags - more versatile and you can see exactly what is where. And as others have mentioned, you can try to look European all you like, but the fact that you aren't sure where you're going, you have to think about what coin is worth what, and you don't speak the language like a native, are all going to stand out much more than if you're wearing running shoes! :)
Thanks for the thoughtful and insightful travel tips! I agree on the amazon stuff. Hard not to use because it is so easy, but if we lean into things we already have you have more to spend on your trip! Great tip for the zip lock bags. So nice to be able to see what you have packed without opening up a packing cube.
Appreciate you being a part of our travel community!
Headphones give me a headache, in-ear buds don’t stay put, over-ear buds are the way too go for me.
Bummer. Glad you found a solution that works well for your travels.
over ear headphones with noise cancelling for that annoying plane engine sound
Over ear headphone , small ear hole 😢
Such a better in flight experience also! Thanks for watching and commenting. Appreciate you being a part of the community.
Cash- I hit a huge rock (rental car) that fell into the road during an ice storm, lost all the engine oil. A kindly excon took four of us 40 miles to the airport, in an ice storm, and he couldn't have taken a credit card. We gave him a lot of cash. 80 miles for him on icy roads.
And that guy gave us a bag of home made cookies.
10ft selfie pole how obnoxious!
you obviously don't tip...
A lot of places outside the US don't have the tipping culture Americans are used to.
a lot of hotels have perfectly adequate toiletries so why take them?
Didn't pull the trigger on a drone before a trip. Did some research and figured I wouldn't have enough time to actually fly it for it to be worth the valuable carryon space it'll use. Still enjoyed my vacation.