I travel with a custom 35L Aer X-pac with the tough sail cloth (custom because I added straps at the bottom in case I want to bring a tripod or a rolled up sleeping bag). The key is merino wool (best to get a aprox. 85% blend with NYLON core and 2% spandex for some stretch but not necessary) nylon gives strength, but the merino wool wrapped around contacts the skin. Nylon over poly as poly will absorb oils. But I just finished this last winter in south America and one can wear it 4-5 days in a row with out smelling! Next would be quick dry shirts, shorts, underwear, saves on laundry which I did in a sink once a week and dried overnight. Oh and one awesome tip in regards to a carry on backpack is to get a rain cover for it! It serves two purposes (well besides it's intended use) it keeps your expensive bag clean, and you can do like I did and get a belt click strap and squish your sandles tread up to the sides (or where even it is less obvious), click the belt tight, put your rain cover on and no one is the wiser to your extra luggage. Congrats on the new tap card... Make sure you also have a rfid blocking wallet to avoid tap scams in crowds and check for payment machines that seem to have covers on them (skimmers) and of course your card should never leave your sight. You are lucky to have the no foreign transaction fees and the refund of atm costs (Schwab?), the wise card, visa debt is about the best for non Americans. Always have a packable backpack. If you get weighed at the gate then you can offload stuff to create a "personal item" for under the seat and get yourself under the weight. If you get forced to check in at the counter, consider checking in independently of each other and have the other person watch the bags. Oh and get luggage with lockable zippers then buy TSA approved mini combo locks (with wire loops). These rock for several reasons... First lowers the amount of let's take a peek at customs or sneeky fingers if made to check. But it's at the hotel it can really shine. When I arrive I take out my toiletry bag and replace it with my fanny pack (another great item to have to keep all you stuff in one place on travel day) I divide my credit cards and id's and keep half with me and the rest in the bag. I then lock up the bag. 90% of thefts are crimes of opportunity so making it so they have to damage the bag to grab something is usually enough. Oh and before you leave... Make a colour photocopy of your passport, and other ID like a health card or driver's licence or a contact number and address. Laminate the photocopy of your passport on one side and your other info on the other and when asked by say a hotel, walking around day or night, etc you give them the copy and keep your passport safely locked away. Works like a charm. Sorry for the long post... I found some good tips, I just also wanted to share what I have learned as well. Keep up the great work! Cheers!
👎 to Merino wool. I bought my first Merino wool "super expensive" shirt for a trip. It did smell after wearing it ONCE. Very disappointed with the product.
@@patric5076 well all I can say is my experience was completely different. In fact I met up with a long time friend on the road and purposely wore my shirt 3 previous days in a row (and it was hot out and I had to hang dry the shirt each night from my daily sweating) I asked her to smell my shirt and the only odor smell my friend could detect was the smell of my antipersperspirant. So I don't know why my experience is so divergent from yours. I guess my advice would then be, is to buy just one, try it out and see for oneself if they work for you.
By the way, I found a suitcase that opens from the top, not like a clamshell, makes a huge difference in how much space your bag takes up in your room. I love it
Yeah but I travel for over 3 months at a time. A carry on doesn’t provide enough room for that length of time. That’s not even including the souvenirs and things I’ve purchased abroad.
@@Dagyana we never buy souvenirs when travelling, why?? You just have to carry extra weight, we travel all over the world for up to 4 months at a time, never had an issue with carry on only, checked baggage is expensive, and a lot of extra stuff to cart around, stuff you do not need, once we paired it all down 20 years ago and went carry on only, we have never looked back, we still have more "stuff" than we need, people need far less than they think they actually need
You always post such helpful information. Carrie's seriousness and Brian comedy make it a perfect pairing and fun to watch. Thanks so much for sharing your lessons.
Been doing ONLY carry on for over 20 years. And besides….It takes up to 45 mins. waiting at airports for luggage to be unloaded. Just did 3 weeks in Vietnam with only a backpack. Rule is: take less luggage and more money! Enjoying your videos.
One way to beat the weight issue for carry on, is to put the heavy stuff in your backpack/coat/pants pockets till it is weighed. We also usually wear our bulky/heavy shoes on the plane.
Love all your videos and podcasts! So much good info. Please do a cooking in vid, when traveling grocery food can be unfamiliar so would be great to see what you make. 🍻 🍻
Really excellent tips! You two are the best. We have a lot of friends but when I tell my husband Brian and Carrie said… blah blah blah…. He knows exactly who I am talking about. Haha❤😂
You are correct about going carryon, the money you will save can pay for a lot of stuff. Most (not all) trans-Atlantic flights allow free carryon but Norse is one that does not and no European budget airline does. If you have to pay for a carryon bag and you are a couple, then look at the cost for a checked bag compared to the cost of two carryon bags. I have never seen a 20 kg checked bag that is not less expensive than paying for two carryon 10 kg bags. If you think you might want to take home a lot of shopping, you can then pay for one carryon bag for your return trip. As for changing planes; this is where you will get cancelations, delays and lost luggage. I have to save at least £30 (I'm in the UK) to change planes. If I have a layover at an airport, there is a good chance that I will spend money there and I increase the odds of something going wrong. I use the same rule of thumb with airports; Gatwick has to save me at least £15 over Heathrow because of the effort to get there; Stansted has to save £10. I love the gift card hack!!
I love to travel with a carry on only it’s so less stressful and saves time.I have found buying most of my cosmetics from local pharmacists in the locations i travel to is a game changer for me
Luggage companies have some nutty pricing! You could literally fly to where some of them are made, buy one and return for as much or less than what their asking. Thanks for the tips!
A few things if you want to go to a country that gives you 30 days tourist visa but you want to stay longer. Most countries require you to have an onward ticket. What you do is book a one way ticket and get a ticket through an onward ticket site for usually around $15.00 and then get a tourist visa extension while you are in that country. Another reason for carryon is say you arrive at your destination at night if you are waiting for your checked luggage you may miss your public transportation cutoff time for the day and taxi rates rise
Retired flight mech - I have a few miles under my belt. I like the Way bigger carry on, looks to be. Nice quality. I think I’ve been sold on not having a zipper style closure though for security. Still under evaluation though .. Thanks for all the great tips
Gift cards??? That's thinking outside the box for sure. Last two trips overseas did carry-on only. But THAT personal bag under the seat I've gone through 3 different ones so far. I think I've finally found it, "must have wheels" and must attach without unbalancing the luggage tower. And the carry-on even has a cup holder (big bonus) & battery port for that airport layover. Great budget plane tickets. And never thought to book Airbnb longer than planned stay. We have been doing 3 weeks will definitely try the book for month and leave early tip.
We do 3 week trips from the US to European destinations (have done 6 in the last 4 years...) and have always done it with carry ons and no checked bags. It is so convenient, saves time and ease of transportation to and from BnBs or between local cities. Of course it restricts us from carrying special attires for pictures etc. At this stage of our life, our prime goal is to travel and enjoy places and not prove to anyone our instagram shorts!. Yes light travel makes it so easy and flexible.
Keeping travel easy and flexible makes it more enjoyable. We have never found that we needed something that we decided to leave behind. Pack light and keep it simple! 😁 Thanks CM!!
Thank you for making the point about rejecting the ATM conversion rate. It’s counterintuitive, bc it doesn’t seem as though the machine will allow the withdrawal if you refuse the exchange rate, but, they do(!)
I just tried your flexible Google Flights strategy and can fly from Houston, TX to Rome (one way) for $558 via London as opposed to almost $800 from Houston to Rome. Wish I had known this strategy earlier, but will definitely use from now on....thanks!
$250 is a week-long car rental or Italian wine that you could ship home. 😀 Hopefully it will work for you next time. Thank you for watching and commenting!! Safe travels!
Fantastic information! My wife and I always look forward to your videos. We don't use Airbnb's often, but we were wondering if you ever get a partial refund if you decide to leave early or in the event of an emergency? Also, I don't know if you have any control over the ads that run during your videos, but I thought it was hilarious that just after Brian said Norse Airways doesn't give you a kickback, a Norse Airways ad started playing.
Awesome video again, guys. Would be great if you could do a video showing us your computer screen and take us on how you book a flight on Google Flight Explore with multiple connections
If you plan such video, maybe showing us a long haul flight to or from your home base Seattle and another more short flight in a region? Like within Central Europe…
We did carry-on for the first time this last trip, it was so much easier and saved so much time & $$! I get a little tired of reusing my fashion but who cares! It’s worth it.
We like to exit different countries with a bit of their currency. Because we generally think we will return to that country and we like to arrive with a enough local $$ to take a taxi, bus, etc, and not have to worry about hitting the ATM asap. Although I could see how that would become an issue if you were not going to a home base every few stops where you could drop it off until the next time. Thanks for the video!
Thats a great travel hack, Julie! Thank you for sharing!! We are always trying to grab an Uber or getting cash from an airport ATM. Never ideal! Thank you for watching and commenting! ❤️
are you meaning "contactless"? for credit cards swiping? looks like sound waves on your card. I recommend getting a virtual card option too for locking to the vendor for a SPECIFIC amount.
Our cards are all "tap" cards. It can sometimes be difficult to find an ATM that will have the technology but for the most part we don't need to swipe. Grocery stores and restaurants all have contactless in most places that we have traveled.
Good comments and advice. I’ll share one more experience. I booked a Ryan Air flight from Belfast, Northern Ireland, to Edinburgh,Scotland last August 2023. We were charged $75 US EACH at the airport for not checking in on line at least two hours before the flight! We were at the airport two hours early but couldn’t accomplish the task in time. It said nothing on their website about this.
The budget airlines can nickel and dime you if you're not a where of hidden costs. We have used Ryan Air a few times without problems, but we have heard plenty of negative stories.
Great information! Thank you to both. Hubby and I are in the preparation phase now, securing a couple of credit cards and new carry-on luggages. We love minimalist way to travel.
We are also team carry on but got busted on weight at the gate in Lisbon by TAP (after they didn't care on the previous 3 flights) and had to pay 125 Euro per piece on the spot. Not sure there was 125 Euro worth of stuff in bag. I understand the frustration.
Another quality video. I can agree with booking well in advance (and often around end of fiscal quarters when reporting for revenue needed for airlines on publicly traded shares) to obtain the best bargains. In back to back years I obtained really good prices to Portugal and Scotland in May booking in December. It is a commitment but can provide great benefits. Carry on only the way to go. A pain when flight "full" and they seek volunteers to check at the gate. Cheers to both.
Thank you so much for answering the question about finding reasonable flights! I was having issues finding anything SEA-IST under $1200... eager to give your tips a try!
Tons of great tips, thanks so much! When your traveling with all these flight throughout the year how does it work with travel insurance and its costs?
Questions: Do you have to book a round trip when Booking Thailand? Is it cheaper to book round or 1 way? Also Mexico used to require you to have a return flight - is this still like that -I haven't been for 4 yrs. Most digital nomads only book 1 way tickets but I'm just looking at going for 1 mth. but if I like it & want to stay longer then I'll lose $$ Appreciate your reply. Txs
We had to do an exit ticket, but the agent never asked us for it. We were flying to Hoi an, Vietnam so the cost was a minimal commitment. We will be starting our Mexico adventure soon, so we are not up to date on what's required. 🍻
Doing the Schengen Shuffle 😂❤😂 On the carry-on only, it's not just the cost and time saving. It's the I don't want to deal with awkward heavy stuff on cobblestone or uneven pavement. Soft sided backpack suitcase is my jam. If I can't carry it comfortably on my back then it's just not good for me. PS- Tokyo is straight up cheaper to eat out for most things
Love the gift card tip!!!! When you string flights together, are you ever worried of one of the flights getting cancelled and messing up your total journey?
One more question. Aren’t you using credit cards that give you lounge privileges? Or cards that can give you kick back perks for points? It seems that this is something I haven’t heard about from you guys, or other long term travelers, as a savings tip. We earn a lot of points by charging everything on good value credit cards for points and pay it each month and get reimbursed free nights in hotels. Obviously, hotels aren’t the main choice for stay in long term slow travel but it can pay off when transitioning through major cities for a day or other situations.
Love your tips! So helpful!! Do you have any recommendations on how to deal with hiking poles with carry on only? That's probably the only time I would have to check a luggage. Thanks!
I've been slow traveling as well for the last two years. I decided to spend the Summer home in California; the longest stretch in two years. Because of some last minute issues, I had to book the flight home on 10/24/2023 for a flight on 11/06/2023 from Berlin to SFO with a return flight on 09/09/2024 (yes I'm booking in reverse because I did a one-way awhile ago.) So, even booking at the last minute only cost me $535.63 round-trip. My point is, if you book in the off-season (and perhaps it helps booking a return waaay out there) you can get a pretty good deal 😊. Btw, I didn't use a VPN when I book in Germany.
Thanks for the great tips. I'm starting to get hooked on your video's (somewhat funny since we are going to relocate from The Netherlands to Greece and settle - But who knows we travel from there!). I couldn't hear the name of the VPN. Could you give it please? TX And continue to have fun in your travels
Loved this video! Have you guys looked into Play Airlines yet?? A friend of mine let me know of them and I’ve found them to be the least expensive for transatlantic flights, just with a mandatory layover in Iceland.
@@BrianandCarrie it’s basically the Spirit Airlines of international flight. Definitely “no frills” but worth the savings if you don’t mind the layover time.
Love watching your videos. The information is honest and excellent. Thank you! There was a video where you spoke about E sim for international travel and I can't find that info. Can you please guide me to it? We will be travelling and would like to get a E Sim for the phone. Greatly appreciated!
Hi! If you go to our resources page on our website, the info about the one we use is at the bottom of the page. Here's the link www.brianandcarrietravels.com/essential-travel-tips
We are doing a try before we buy for 6 months from October. lucky enough to just leave the house we have)Mainly SE Asia to start with. If we like it, we will do full time. We are taking check in bags. However, I'm already having the conversation with hubby, how long before we realise, we need to ditch for carry on. I give it 2 months!!!
It took us less than two months before we went to the Goodwill in Spain and got rid of some weight. When we returned home, we bought new carry-on bags. Three years later we are still making adjustments on how we pack! 😂 Good luck and safe travels!! ❤️
When searching, you can use Google hotels. You then will book with the site that has the best deal. I typically use Expedia and booking as my go to for hotels. Thanks so much for watching 😊
OMG lol!! Heathrow to JFK to Atlanta to Denver to San Fran to Seattle!!! Come on Carrie!! All to save a few bucks? I feel your pain Brian. 🤣🤣🤣 hilarious
My friend used to do this when airlines awarded points based on # of miles flown, not the $ amt spent. He’d go east to west coast zigzagging with multiple layovers just to rack up the airline award miles 😂
Yes,Albania! There are other countries as well.. about to head to Namibia, have South African Rand and Euros. Will try and get Namibian dollars there. Carry on is the way to go. However since 9/11 we have to check our poles. 😢Have used different strategies, bought local, shipped UPS etc. maybe some day walking poles will get out of the weapons category 😂.
My wailking sticks juuuuust fit crossways if I take them apart. I was looking at canes the other day and found a style that completely collapses on itself less than a foot long once collapsed. Wish they made walking sticks with the same design.
In Australia the ability to travel with just carry on is almost impossible for an extended trip. Sure you an go to bali - just chuck in a couple of summer dresses, a pair of shorts and 3 bikinis and you're all set, but not for an overseas trip to Europe. Went to Tassie for a week and even that was a struggle. Our carriers all have size AND weight restrictions for carry on luggage, that are heavily monitored, they literally weigh bags at the boarding gate and the fees for being overweight are huge !! Try doing a 2 week trip with carry on limited to 7kg lol ....
We fly to Europe on Sunday from Perth. My bag weighs 7.2 kilos. Lightweight clothing with warm layers. Kathmandu puffer weighs 220g and folds into a pocket (they have great Sales). Picnic brand clothes have tops that weigh as low as 80g and fast drying. NZ have a brand called Verge with trousers weighing as low as 120g. We travel for five months a year. I roll not fold (learnt that from Carrie) and now have shampoo and conditioner bar (also Carrie), a moisturiser bar and small toiletries which I can replenish. My bag is Osprey - very lightweight too.
I think it comes down to what you want to wear and if it’s a holiday (sit and sip) or travel (sightsee/move around). We go for a month and I want to take a variety of outfits for Singapore, Croatia and Rome. I don’t want to spend a month in the same clothes/outfits, so my bag hits at 12kg incl the bag and toiletries for us as a couple. And even that is following the 54321 packing I’m still over carry in weight. Sure I could pack a pair of pants and a dress less but it won’t change much, and then I have to deal with washing regularly. No holidays, laundry is not a priority for me. My view may change as B&C have by really minimizing our packing where you’re somewhere for a month at a time and buying staples upon arrival makes sense.
We check in online and go straight throw security to the gate. We have only been weighed one time doing this. You will always be over, so it is a risk. Our bags fit the size requirements so that's why we don't get a second look.
Confused. With ATM withdrawals - if you're in another country is it pulling out that countries currency? And is there a currency exchange rate? What if our bank debit/credit card adds on international fees? What's the best cards to get? Or, what if you can't get a card?
When you withdrawal money in a foreign country you will get their currency at the most current exchange rate. We us a Charls Shwab ATM card that has worldwide free ATM fees so we get re-imbursed at the end of each month on any fees that we may occur.
Great videos! Gift cards: when i was in mexico, i asked if i could use my US gift card at starbucks. They said "no". Maybe they were wrong or didnt know how to process that. But theres that. Ive been traveling carry-on only for a while now. Not only is it easier at the airports but generally at the destination too. I use a backpack so my hands are free.
Hi! Question, can you elaborate on the vpn issues you had in Turkey? I am thinking about getting NordVPN and it would be mainly for when I go back home to Istanbul.
There are some regulations on using any VPN in Turkiye. We mainly had issues around the time of the election, which we were forewarned about. After that, it worked fine.
I have a question. I realize I am coming from a totally uneducated position. When I hear you talk about VPN, SIM cards for phones, and health insurance, I wonder why I wouldn't be able to utilize these things while living in the US. A 15 dollar phone plan sounds much better to me than the one I currently have through Verizon. The cost of your health insurance, which you have shared, is a fraction of what I pay here. Maybe you could touch on this subject in a video. Or, if you already have, please direct me to that one.
You can use a VPN while in the US but the others you cannot. The SIM cards will only work in the country that you purchase the card, and the health insurance will only cover you in the US for occasional visits. The US is expensive!!
Hey Brian and Carrie , very good video . I can do better editing in your videos which can help you to get more engagement in your videos . Pls lmk what do you think ?
Hey there! Great episode! We are actually flying Norse Atlantic out of JFK later today. Do you know what they charge if carry-on luggage is over their 22 lb weight limit? I can't find this info on their website and I'm not sure we're going to be able to get under that threshold. 😅 Thanks!
@@BrianandCarrieThanks for the reply. I just got my carry-on bag under 22 lb, but now my "personal item" is ridiculous. 😅 We take the red eye to London, have a short two-night stay there, then flying into Faro and have 30 nights booked in Lagos, Portugal. Then 28 nights in Sevilla, Spain, then 28 nights in Madrid. I know, I know, we are going to be roasting in Spain, but this is just the timing that worked. We only have our first 3 months booked. May head over to one of the beach towns in Turkey after seeing how much you liked them. Then Southeast Asia this coming winter. Hope to cross paths with sometime/somewhere! 🙂🤞
Curious about which bank you use for the atm, to avoid all the fees? I actually have traveled with travelers checks, and had multiple credit cards to ensure that they would accept one. The last time we went to Europe we were able to exchange some money at our bank(ordered euros)for $8 fee. But I wanted to avoid carrying a month or mores cash on me/us. I have never done banking abroad, and being mid-sixties, I am apprehensive to put my accounts at risk, so any information you can provide would be greatly appreciated 😊.
Another great podcast thanks team. I really need to spend some time with Google flights explore. The retirement travellers also mentioned it as a great way of finding cheap business class tickets.
You have a lot of comments here already so you may have already answered this, but which atm account do you prefer? I have Schwab which is free international exchange but I find it difficult when trying move money to a from that account.
I think it’s a “me” thing. In order to electronically transfer from my bank to another external bank the account has to be verified and I just have trouble getting that done. I need to just to go my bank and have them help me. I see where I can deposit checks electronically right in the Schwab app. So I’m going to try that.
I’m wondering if you worry about booking flights with two different airlines in the same day. The example you gave is, of course, a no brained because even if you got suck on your first leg, it wasn’t a huge investment to loose but other scenarios may cost you bid if the first airline can’t come through to get you to that second flight. A lengthy layover is a nice cushion for preventative but it sure could be costly, if something happens with the first flight. I guess we will just have to calculate the balance of savings to risk when booking separate airlines.
The VPN thing is real! I guess it’s OK, until travel /airlines outlaw it somehow?? We got way cheaper flights to Frankfurt this summer, out of Mexico. We just have to go through Mexico, but that’s not all bad!
Some cards limit the number of times you can get free withdrawals per month. Mine only allows two which makes it difficult to estimate how much you are going to need.
I travel with a custom 35L Aer X-pac with the tough sail cloth (custom because I added straps at the bottom in case I want to bring a tripod or a rolled up sleeping bag). The key is merino wool (best to get a aprox. 85% blend with NYLON core and 2% spandex for some stretch but not necessary) nylon gives strength, but the merino wool wrapped around contacts the skin. Nylon over poly as poly will absorb oils. But I just finished this last winter in south America and one can wear it 4-5 days in a row with out smelling! Next would be quick dry shirts, shorts, underwear, saves on laundry which I did in a sink once a week and dried overnight.
Oh and one awesome tip in regards to a carry on backpack is to get a rain cover for it! It serves two purposes (well besides it's intended use) it keeps your expensive bag clean, and you can do like I did and get a belt click strap and squish your sandles tread up to the sides (or where even it is less obvious), click the belt tight, put your rain cover on and no one is the wiser to your extra luggage.
Congrats on the new tap card... Make sure you also have a rfid blocking wallet to avoid tap scams in crowds and check for payment machines that seem to have covers on them (skimmers) and of course your card should never leave your sight. You are lucky to have the no foreign transaction fees and the refund of atm costs (Schwab?), the wise card, visa debt is about the best for non Americans.
Always have a packable backpack. If you get weighed at the gate then you can offload stuff to create a "personal item" for under the seat and get yourself under the weight. If you get forced to check in at the counter, consider checking in independently of each other and have the other person watch the bags.
Oh and get luggage with lockable zippers then buy TSA approved mini combo locks (with wire loops). These rock for several reasons... First lowers the amount of let's take a peek at customs or sneeky fingers if made to check. But it's at the hotel it can really shine. When I arrive I take out my toiletry bag and replace it with my fanny pack (another great item to have to keep all you stuff in one place on travel day) I divide my credit cards and id's and keep half with me and the rest in the bag. I then lock up the bag. 90% of thefts are crimes of opportunity so making it so they have to damage the bag to grab something is usually enough.
Oh and before you leave... Make a colour photocopy of your passport, and other ID like a health card or driver's licence or a contact number and address. Laminate the photocopy of your passport on one side and your other info on the other and when asked by say a hotel, walking around day or night, etc you give them the copy and keep your passport safely locked away. Works like a charm.
Sorry for the long post... I found some good tips, I just also wanted to share what I have learned as well.
Keep up the great work!
Cheers!
These are all wonderful tips, thank you so much for sharing. We will for sure look into some 😊
👎 to Merino wool. I bought my first Merino wool "super expensive" shirt for a trip. It did smell after wearing it ONCE. Very disappointed with the product.
@@patric5076 well all I can say is my experience was completely different. In fact I met up with a long time friend on the road and purposely wore my shirt 3 previous days in a row (and it was hot out and I had to hang dry the shirt each night from my daily sweating) I asked her to smell my shirt and the only odor smell my friend could detect was the smell of my antipersperspirant.
So I don't know why my experience is so divergent from yours.
I guess my advice would then be, is to buy just one, try it out and see for oneself if they work for you.
We just did 3 months with carry on. The best thing ever. Saves money, saves time, no worries about losing luggage, no stress! We love it!
That’s It! I just got the midsize luggage for our 1 month trip coming up, but I am planning to get the smaller carry-on size after summer. Thx!!
By the way, I found a suitcase that opens from the top, not like a clamshell, makes a huge difference in how much space your bag takes up in your room. I love it
Always travel with carry on only!! The only way to travel!!!
Yeah but I travel for over 3 months at a time. A carry on doesn’t provide enough room for that length of time. That’s not even including the souvenirs and things I’ve purchased abroad.
@@Dagyana we never buy souvenirs when travelling, why?? You just have to carry extra weight, we travel all over the world for up to 4 months at a time, never had an issue with carry on only, checked baggage is expensive, and a lot of extra stuff to cart around, stuff you do not need, once we paired it all down 20 years ago and went carry on only, we have never looked back, we still have more "stuff" than we need, people need far less than they think they actually need
You always post such helpful information. Carrie's seriousness and Brian comedy make it a perfect pairing and fun to watch. Thanks so much for sharing your lessons.
Thank you so much, that's so kind ❤️
Brian definitely has loosened up a bit which is very nice ! 👍 RUclips can accommodate more informal style than ultra-professional
The gift card idea is BRILLIANT!
How does it work with gift card if you moving on to different country with different currency
Been doing ONLY carry on for over 20 years. And besides….It takes up to 45 mins. waiting at airports for luggage to be unloaded. Just did 3 weeks in Vietnam with only a backpack. Rule is: take less luggage and more money! Enjoying your videos.
Great idea, Barbara!! 🤣
One way to beat the weight issue for carry on, is to put the heavy stuff in your backpack/coat/pants pockets till it is weighed. We also usually wear our bulky/heavy shoes on the plane.
Yes, absolutely what we do as well. Always where our heaviest bulkier items.
Love all your videos and podcasts! So much good info. Please do a cooking in vid, when traveling grocery food can be unfamiliar so would be great to see what you make. 🍻 🍻
We may do something about that soon. Something a little different but fun.😀
Been doing what you're doing for over 6 years and there is always something to learn. Thanks ❤️👣🌎✈️
We feel like we learn something new every day!! Thank you for watching and commenting! Safe travels! ❤️
You two are so respectful of each other as partners and spouses!
Really excellent tips! You two are the best. We have a lot of friends but when I tell my husband Brian and Carrie said… blah blah blah…. He knows exactly who I am talking about. Haha❤😂
Thank you, Pam!! 🤣 We appreciate the support from you both!! 😊
You are correct about going carryon, the money you will save can pay for a lot of stuff. Most (not all) trans-Atlantic flights allow free carryon but Norse is one that does not and no European budget airline does. If you have to pay for a carryon bag and you are a couple, then look at the cost for a checked bag compared to the cost of two carryon bags. I have never seen a 20 kg checked bag that is not less expensive than paying for two carryon 10 kg bags. If you think you might want to take home a lot of shopping, you can then pay for one carryon bag for your return trip.
As for changing planes; this is where you will get cancelations, delays and lost luggage. I have to save at least £30 (I'm in the UK) to change planes. If I have a layover at an airport, there is a good chance that I will spend money there and I increase the odds of something going wrong. I use the same rule of thumb with airports; Gatwick has to save me at least £15 over Heathrow because of the effort to get there; Stansted has to save £10.
I love the gift card hack!!
Eating from the grocery store is usually healthier than restaurant cooking.
Gift card at the airport is a GREAT idea!! That's an awesome tip! Thanks, cheers.
WISE card is SO convenient
I love to travel with a carry on only it’s so less stressful and saves time.I have found buying most of my cosmetics from local pharmacists in the locations i travel to is a game changer for me
Luggage companies have some nutty pricing! You could literally fly to where some of them are made, buy one and return for as much or less than what their asking. Thanks for the tips!
A few things if you want to go to a country that gives you 30 days tourist visa but you want to stay longer. Most countries require you to have an onward ticket. What you do is book a one way ticket and get a ticket through an onward ticket site for usually around $15.00 and then get a tourist visa extension while you are in that country. Another reason for carryon is say you arrive at your destination at night if you are waiting for your checked luggage you may miss your public transportation cutoff time for the day and taxi rates rise
We have only need to buy an onward ticket in one country that we have visited so far, Thailand.
😂 You guys are super cute. My hubby is Brian in this scenario. He just says tell me when to pack… he no longer wants the details anymore.. 😂❤❤❤
Thank you so much!! ❤️❤️❤️
Retired flight mech - I have a few miles under my belt. I like the Way bigger carry on, looks to be. Nice quality. I think I’ve been sold on not having a zipper style closure though for security. Still under evaluation though .. Thanks for all the great tips
Thank you for watching, Ed! Safe travels!!
Cheers!!🍻
Gift cards??? That's thinking outside the box for sure. Last two trips overseas did carry-on only. But THAT personal bag under the seat I've gone through 3 different ones so far. I think I've finally found it, "must have wheels" and must attach without unbalancing the luggage tower. And the carry-on even has a cup holder (big bonus) & battery port for that airport layover.
Great budget plane tickets. And never thought to book Airbnb longer than planned stay. We have been doing 3 weeks will definitely try the book for month and leave early tip.
You can get some big saving doing this especially in the off season.
We do 3 week trips from the US to European destinations (have done 6 in the last 4 years...) and have always done it with carry ons and no checked bags. It is so convenient, saves time and ease of transportation to and from BnBs or between local cities. Of course it restricts us from carrying special attires for pictures etc. At this stage of our life, our prime goal is to travel and enjoy places and not prove to anyone our instagram shorts!. Yes light travel makes it so easy and flexible.
Keeping travel easy and flexible makes it more enjoyable. We have never found that we needed something that we decided to leave behind. Pack light and keep it simple! 😁 Thanks CM!!
You too are so cute. She still laughs at your jokes. Your a lucky man.
I am lucky!! 😁❤️
Just watching this for the second time and probably will do a third eventually. Making mental notes. Carrie's tip on the gift cards is clutch!
Thank you, Melinda! ❤️
Starbucks (or perhaps the merchant?) doesn’t honour gift cards in many countries. Not sure if they’ve ever actually tried to use them
We have used them, several times.
We just flew our first Norse flight and it was SO AFFORDABLE
We love Norse!! We fly Norse whenever we have a chance!! 😊
Thank you for making the point about rejecting the ATM conversion rate. It’s counterintuitive, bc it doesn’t seem as though the machine will allow the withdrawal if you refuse the exchange rate, but, they do(!)
I just tried your flexible Google Flights strategy and can fly from Houston, TX to Rome (one way) for $558 via London as opposed to almost $800 from Houston to Rome. Wish I had known this strategy earlier, but will definitely use from now on....thanks!
$250 is a week-long car rental or Italian wine that you could ship home. 😀 Hopefully it will work for you next time. Thank you for watching and commenting!! Safe travels!
Connections take time and each one is a chance for delays
@@warrentrout true, so my experiment included a nights stay in London, then off to Rome. The price I referenced included the hotel stay for one night.
Fantastic information! My wife and I always look forward to your videos. We don't use Airbnb's often, but we were wondering if you ever get a partial refund if you decide to leave early or in the event of an emergency? Also, I don't know if you have any control over the ads that run during your videos, but I thought it was hilarious that just after Brian said Norse Airways doesn't give you a kickback, a Norse Airways ad started playing.
It is actually scary who is listening!! We don't have any connection with Norse Airways, I promise!! 🤣
Awesome video again, guys. Would be great if you could do a video showing us your computer screen and take us on how you book a flight on Google Flight Explore with multiple connections
That’s a great idea! We will add something like it to our list of videos! Thank you for watching!! 😊
If you plan such video, maybe showing us a long haul flight to or from your home base Seattle and another more short flight in a region? Like within Central Europe…
Reginal flights in Europe are very in-expensive. Ryan Air is cheap!
We did carry-on for the first time this last trip, it was so much easier and saved so much time & $$! I get a little tired of reusing my fashion but who cares! It’s worth it.
Yes, totally agree, absolutely worth it. But wearing the same thing over and over, by the 3rd month I'm ready to throw it all out 🤣.
I love that VPN tip. I’m totally going to get on that. Thanks guys. I have to say, I feel “star struck” just being in the same time zone as you! Lol.
HAHA!! We'd love to meet up someday Sandi! 😊
Another food saving is to have a large hotel breakfast and one large meal in a restaurant
My wife and I follow several retired, slow-travel couples and you are our favorite. You're vlogs and podcasts are very informative and entertaining.
We're so happy you enjoy our content. Thanks so much for watching and following along 😊
Thank you for your time and posting. In stereo.
Thank you for listing!! 😀
Thank you for your info, appreciate it!
We like to exit different countries with a bit of their currency. Because we generally think we will return to that country and we like to arrive with a enough local $$ to take a taxi, bus, etc, and not have to worry about hitting the ATM asap. Although I could see how that would become an issue if you were not going to a home base every few stops where you could drop it off until the next time. Thanks for the video!
Thats a great travel hack, Julie! Thank you for sharing!! We are always trying to grab an Uber or getting cash from an airport ATM. Never ideal! Thank you for watching and commenting! ❤️
Amazing channel! I always learn so much with you guys. Thank you!
Thank you so much for the kind words and for watching our channel. ❤️
are you meaning "contactless"? for credit cards swiping? looks like sound waves on your card. I recommend getting a virtual card option too for locking to the vendor for a SPECIFIC amount.
Our cards are all "tap" cards. It can sometimes be difficult to find an ATM that will have the technology but for the most part we don't need to swipe. Grocery stores and restaurants all have contactless in most places that we have traveled.
Good comments and advice. I’ll share one more experience. I booked a Ryan Air flight from Belfast, Northern Ireland, to Edinburgh,Scotland last August 2023. We were charged $75 US EACH at the airport for not checking in on line at least two hours before the flight! We were at the airport two hours early but couldn’t accomplish the task in time. It said nothing on their website about this.
The budget airlines can nickel and dime you if you're not a where of hidden costs. We have used Ryan Air a few times without problems, but we have heard plenty of negative stories.
Great information! Thank you to both. Hubby and I are in the preparation phase now, securing a couple of credit cards and new carry-on luggages. We love minimalist way to travel.
We are also team carry on but got busted on weight at the gate in Lisbon by TAP (after they didn't care on the previous 3 flights) and had to pay 125 Euro per piece on the spot. Not sure there was 125 Euro worth of stuff in bag. I understand the frustration.
Same thing happened to my sister. She was pretty mad. They also said you can only put on 3 pieces of clothing from your luggage. What a joke.
We've heard Tap can be strict. They tried to stop us and make us check but we got by. We just never know each time. Thanks for watching 😊
Another quality video. I can agree with booking well in advance (and often around end of fiscal quarters when reporting for revenue needed for airlines on publicly traded shares) to obtain the best bargains. In back to back years I obtained really good prices to Portugal and Scotland in May booking in December. It is a commitment but can provide great benefits. Carry on only the way to go. A pain when flight "full" and they seek volunteers to check at the gate. Cheers to both.
Use the Wise card for best rates. In Vietnam change money at gold shops. Bring perfect bills.
Thank you so much for answering the question about finding reasonable flights! I was having issues finding anything SEA-IST under $1200... eager to give your tips a try!
Hope some of these tips help. Finding that hub airport is the best way to save money.
Tons of great tips, thanks so much! When your traveling with all these flight throughout the year how does it work with travel insurance and its costs?
Thank you!!
Questions: Do you have to book a round trip when Booking Thailand? Is it cheaper to book round or 1 way? Also Mexico used to require you to have a return flight - is this still like that -I haven't been for 4 yrs. Most digital nomads only book 1 way tickets but I'm just looking at going for 1 mth. but if I like it & want to stay longer then I'll lose $$ Appreciate your reply. Txs
We had to do an exit ticket, but the agent never asked us for it. We were flying to Hoi an, Vietnam so the cost was a minimal commitment. We will be starting our Mexico adventure soon, so we are not up to date on what's required. 🍻
Great tip about left over money and getting a starbucks gift card!
Thank you! 😊 ☕
Doing the Schengen Shuffle 😂❤😂
On the carry-on only, it's not just the cost and time saving. It's the I don't want to deal with awkward heavy stuff on cobblestone or uneven pavement. Soft sided backpack suitcase is my jam. If I can't carry it comfortably on my back then it's just not good for me. PS- Tokyo is straight up cheaper to eat out for most things
Love the gift card tip!!!!
When you string flights together, are you ever worried of one of the flights getting cancelled and messing up your total journey?
Thanks! Yes, there is always that concern. Making sure you allow buffer of time between is crutial. So far (🤞) we've been lucky.
We are not worried about that. We have time so as inconvenient as it would be we will still arrive at our final destination eventually.
One more question. Aren’t you using credit cards that give you lounge privileges? Or cards that can give you kick back perks for points? It seems that this is something I haven’t heard about from you guys, or other long term travelers, as a savings tip. We earn a lot of points by charging everything on good value credit cards for points and pay it each month and get reimbursed free nights in hotels. Obviously, hotels aren’t the main choice for stay in long term slow travel but it can pay off when transitioning through major cities for a day or other situations.
We do use credit cards for our daily needs and use points, but we are very budgeted. To get a lot of points you need to spend a lot of money.
Love your tips! So helpful!! Do you have any recommendations on how to deal with hiking poles with carry on only? That's probably the only time I would have to check a luggage. Thanks!
Unfortunately, we do not. Apparently, they are considered weapons. 🙄
I always carry apples and nuts in my backpack for snacks. very helpful
Great tip!
I've been slow traveling as well for the last two years. I decided to spend the Summer home in California; the longest stretch in two years.
Because of some last minute issues, I had to book the flight home on 10/24/2023 for a flight on 11/06/2023 from Berlin to SFO with a return flight on 09/09/2024 (yes I'm booking in reverse because I did a one-way awhile ago.) So, even booking at the last minute only cost me $535.63 round-trip. My point is, if you book in the off-season (and perhaps it helps booking a return waaay out there) you can get a pretty good deal 😊. Btw, I didn't use a VPN when I book in Germany.
Yes, so many factors in place. Those round trip tickets can sometimes be a super deal. Plus, in off season always a plus. Thanks for watching 😊
Very good tips, love your chanal and seeing Brian waiting his turn patently, lol, thank you for your great work and sharing your travel experiences
Thank you, Adam!
?? Love your channel! I’m thinking about doing slow travel. How often do you fly home to the U.S. and how long do you stay, typically?
We have been flying home twice a year but moving forward we will be coming home three times a year for 4 to 6 weeks at a time.
Thanks for the great tips. I'm starting to get hooked on your video's (somewhat funny since we are going to relocate from The Netherlands to Greece and settle - But who knows we travel from there!).
I couldn't hear the name of the VPN. Could you give it please? TX And continue to have fun in your travels
Thank you for watching!! Here is the link to our VPN.
VPN we use: nordvpn.com/special/?
Loved this video! Have you guys looked into Play Airlines yet?? A friend of mine let me know of them and I’ve found them to be the least expensive for transatlantic flights, just with a mandatory layover in Iceland.
We have not but we are about ready to!! Thank you for the tip! 😁 Adding to the channel is very much appreciated.
Cheers!!🍻
@@BrianandCarrie it’s basically the Spirit Airlines of international flight. Definitely “no frills” but worth the savings if you don’t mind the layover time.
Good to know!! We will check them out.
I've learned so much from you!
Love watching your videos. The information is honest and excellent. Thank you! There was a video where you spoke about E sim for international travel and I can't find that info. Can you please guide me to it? We will be travelling and would like to get a E Sim for the phone. Greatly appreciated!
Hi! If you go to our resources page on our website, the info about the one we use is at the bottom of the page. Here's the link www.brianandcarrietravels.com/essential-travel-tips
@@BrianandCarrie THANK YOU!!!!!!!
We are doing a try before we buy for 6 months from October. lucky enough to just leave the house we have)Mainly SE Asia to start with. If we like it, we will do full time. We are taking check in bags. However, I'm already having the conversation with hubby, how long before we realise, we need to ditch for carry on. I give it 2 months!!!
It took us less than two months before we went to the Goodwill in Spain and got rid of some weight. When we returned home, we bought new carry-on bags. Three years later we are still making adjustments on how we pack! 😂 Good luck and safe travels!! ❤️
Nice to see you both looking so well. I’m enjoying your videos & the great tips. 🌻
Thanks so much for watching and following along 😊
Thank you for all your advice and inspiration. Please can you confirm which google site do you use to book accommodation 😊
When searching, you can use Google hotels. You then will book with the site that has the best deal. I typically use Expedia and booking as my go to for hotels. Thanks so much for watching 😊
To Take cheked luggage and chek again you need just in USA
Buy cary on luggage in Europe,there you can buy much lighter luggage.
Thanks for another great video.
Who do you bank with? I'm interested to know because you said your bank doesn't charge worldwide ATM transaction fees.
We use Charles Shwab!! Thank you for watching!! 😁
Six months in, we just moved from large suitcases to medium. Baby steps for us 😂
We make adjustments every time we pack!! 🤣
Great tips. Thanks, Brian & Carrie.
Thank you for watching and commenting on our videos!!! ❤️
so when using Google flights, you first set your VPN? And what country(ies) do you tend to set it to that seem to produce more deals? Thank you.
You may have to keep trying different ones. It all depends on where you're flying to.
OMG lol!! Heathrow to JFK to Atlanta to Denver to San Fran to Seattle!!! Come on Carrie!! All to save a few bucks? I feel your pain Brian. 🤣🤣🤣 hilarious
I was exaggerating...I tend to do that! 😁
@@BrianandCarrie You don't say?? I hadn't noticed at all!
🤣
My friend used to do this when airlines awarded points based on # of miles flown, not the $ amt spent. He’d go east to west coast zigzagging with multiple layovers just to rack up the airline award miles 😂
Yes,Albania! There are other countries as well.. about to head to Namibia, have South African Rand and Euros. Will try and get Namibian dollars there. Carry on is the way to go. However since 9/11 we have to check our poles. 😢Have used different strategies, bought local, shipped UPS etc. maybe some day walking poles will get out of the weapons category 😂.
My wailking sticks juuuuust fit crossways if I take them apart. I was looking at canes the other day and found a style that completely collapses on itself less than a foot long once collapsed. Wish they made walking sticks with the same design.
Thanks for the great tips. Especially Norse Airlines. First time hearing about them.
Thank you for watching! 😁
Great video guys. We just started our slow travel life and your videos are very helpful. Maybe we will see around. 😎 #Carryonlife
We would love to meet up sometime!! Thank you for watching!!
Cheers!!🍻
In Australia the ability to travel with just carry on is almost impossible for an extended trip. Sure you an go to bali - just chuck in a couple of summer dresses, a pair of shorts and 3 bikinis and you're all set, but not for an overseas trip to Europe. Went to Tassie for a week and even that was a struggle.
Our carriers all have size AND weight restrictions for carry on luggage, that are heavily monitored, they literally weigh bags at the boarding gate and the fees for being overweight are huge !! Try doing a 2 week trip with carry on limited to 7kg lol ....
We fly to Europe on Sunday from Perth. My bag weighs 7.2 kilos. Lightweight clothing with warm layers. Kathmandu puffer weighs 220g and folds into a pocket (they have great Sales). Picnic brand clothes have tops that weigh as low as 80g and fast drying. NZ have a brand called Verge with trousers weighing as low as 120g. We travel for five months a year. I roll not fold (learnt that from Carrie) and now have shampoo and conditioner bar (also Carrie), a moisturiser bar and small toiletries which I can replenish. My bag is Osprey - very lightweight too.
I think it comes down to what you want to wear and if it’s a holiday (sit and sip) or travel (sightsee/move around). We go for a month and I want to take a variety of outfits for Singapore, Croatia and Rome. I don’t want to spend a month in the same clothes/outfits, so my bag hits at 12kg incl the bag and toiletries for us as a couple. And even that is following the 54321 packing I’m still over carry in weight. Sure I could pack a pair of pants and a dress less but it won’t change much, and then I have to deal with washing regularly. No holidays, laundry is not a priority for me.
My view may change as B&C have by really minimizing our packing where you’re somewhere for a month at a time and buying staples upon arrival makes sense.
We check in online and go straight throw security to the gate. We have only been weighed one time doing this. You will always be over, so it is a risk. Our bags fit the size requirements so that's why we don't get a second look.
American chain restaurants like Texas Roadhouse TGIF Fridays in South East Asia prices are same as USA. no deal there
Why would you desire to eat American food while in Asia?
Confused. With ATM withdrawals - if you're in another country is it pulling out that countries currency? And is there a currency exchange rate? What if our bank debit/credit card adds on international fees? What's the best cards to get? Or, what if you can't get a card?
When you withdrawal money in a foreign country you will get their currency at the most current exchange rate. We us a Charls Shwab ATM card that has worldwide free ATM fees so we get re-imbursed at the end of each month on any fees that we may occur.
@@BrianandCarrie Thanks!
Great videos! Gift cards: when i was in mexico, i asked if i could use my US gift card at starbucks. They said "no". Maybe they were wrong or didnt know how to process that. But theres that. Ive been traveling carry-on only for a while now. Not only is it easier at the airports but generally at the destination too. I use a backpack so my hands are free.
We have never asked and just swiped. Works every time. The few times that we have had to check a bag we feel naked. We like having our bags with us!!
Hi! Question, can you elaborate on the vpn issues you had in Turkey? I am thinking about getting NordVPN and it would be mainly for when I go back home to Istanbul.
There are some regulations on using any VPN in Turkiye. We mainly had issues around the time of the election, which we were forewarned about. After that, it worked fine.
@@BrianandCarrie thank you, that’s very helpful:)
I have a question. I realize I am coming from a totally uneducated position. When I hear you talk about VPN, SIM cards for phones, and health insurance, I wonder why I wouldn't be able to utilize these things while living in the US. A 15 dollar phone plan sounds much better to me than the one I currently have through Verizon. The cost of your health insurance, which you have shared, is a fraction of what I pay here. Maybe you could touch on this subject in a video. Or, if you already have, please direct me to that one.
You can use a VPN while in the US but the others you cannot. The SIM cards will only work in the country that you purchase the card, and the health insurance will only cover you in the US for occasional visits. The US is expensive!!
@@BrianandCarrie I am beginning to understand that!
Great tips, thanks
Thank you for watching!!! 😊
Hey Brian and Carrie , very good video . I can do better editing in your videos which can help you to get more engagement in your videos . Pls lmk what do you think ?
These are podcasts that we also launch on RUclips. Our edited videos are also available for you to watch. Thank you.
Actually you can ask for a further discount from the listing owner, you are correct though, it is hit and miss
We have, just with no luck 😊. Always worth asking though.
@@BrianandCarrie I get a discount at least on the cleaning fees, which are insane with some hosts, almost always I get them to drop the cleaning fee
Great channel. First time watcher
Thank you! We are happy that you found us and welcome to the community!! 😊
Awesome video ❤
Thank you
Thanks so much for watching 😊
not sure how we'd arrange it, but I used to live in Albania and traveling there in June and I'd be happy to exchange your Lek for dollars.
We'd love to meet up but it would be difficult. I'm afraid unless we go back to Albania, I'm stuck with it! 😒
Hey there! Great episode! We are actually flying Norse Atlantic out of JFK later today. Do you know what they charge if carry-on luggage is over their 22 lb weight limit? I can't find this info on their website and I'm not sure we're going to be able to get under that threshold. 😅 Thanks!
With a discount airline you may just have to pay upfront. It is almost impossible to get under 22lb!! Where are you off to?
@@BrianandCarrieThanks for the reply. I just got my carry-on bag under 22 lb, but now my "personal item" is ridiculous. 😅
We take the red eye to London, have a short two-night stay there, then flying into Faro and have 30 nights booked in Lagos, Portugal. Then 28 nights in Sevilla, Spain, then 28 nights in Madrid. I know, I know, we are going to be roasting in Spain, but this is just the timing that worked. We only have our first 3 months booked. May head over to one of the beach towns in Turkey after seeing how much you liked them. Then Southeast Asia this coming winter. Hope to cross paths with sometime/somewhere! 🙂🤞
That sounds like a great trip!! We are from the same area and probably actually meet each other somewhere besides home!! 😊
Brian: We are heading to Albania next month. I’ll take it off your hands! Just let me know where you want to meet up! LOL.
You can swing into Hungary on your way!! 😁
@@BrianandCarrie we may take a day trip depending on where you are:)
We will be in Budapest for the month of June! 🙂
@@BrianandCarrie I’ll PM you and see if we can connect!
Curious about which bank you use for the atm, to avoid all the fees? I actually have traveled with travelers checks, and had multiple credit cards to ensure that they would accept one. The last time we went to Europe we were able to exchange some money at our bank(ordered euros)for $8 fee. But I wanted to avoid carrying a month or mores cash on me/us. I have never done banking abroad, and being mid-sixties, I am apprehensive to put my accounts at risk, so any information you can provide would be greatly appreciated 😊.
We use Charles Shwab. We also use the Nord VPN so we appear to be in the States. Banking online is the same everywhere.
Another great podcast thanks team. I really need to spend some time with Google flights explore. The retirement travellers also mentioned it as a great way of finding cheap business class tickets.
It's a great tool... My go to for the start of any travel planning search. Cheers!!
Super ideas. Thanks
You have a lot of comments here already so you may have already answered this, but which atm account do you prefer? I have Schwab which is free international exchange but I find it difficult when trying move money to a from that account.
I’m thinking of getting a Schwab acct. for my international travels. How is it difficult moving money in/out of the account?
I think it’s a “me” thing. In order to electronically transfer from my bank to another external bank the account has to be verified and I just have trouble getting that done. I need to just to go my bank and have them help me. I see where I can deposit checks electronically right in the Schwab app. So I’m going to try that.
We use Schwab and Fidelity. I haven't had any issues with transfers as of yet. We're always sure to have s VPN on, or we can have issues.
I’m wondering if you worry about booking flights with two different airlines in the same day. The example you gave is, of course, a no brained because even if you got suck on your first leg, it wasn’t a huge investment to loose but other scenarios may cost you bid if the first airline can’t come through to get you to that second flight. A lengthy layover is a nice cushion for preventative but it sure could be costly, if something happens with the first flight. I guess we will just have to calculate the balance of savings to risk when booking separate airlines.
Weve never worried about it, and we have never had a problem. Maybe just lucky...
The gift card idea is amazing!
Glad you liked that one 😊. Can always use another coffee in some other destination
I’ve tried buying a Starbucks gift cards but I have been told they only work in the country I buy it from (example Spain, Bali, Malaysia)
We do it all the time and have never had a problem.
@@BrianandCarrie hmm than maybe the baristas are misinformed
@@BrianandCarrie I’ll try it tomorrow at the Danang location near me. I’ll see what they tell me. I’ll keep you posted.
How do you decide how much cash to take out in each location?
We just gotten good at judging. I find 100 goes a long ways since most my purchases are with a credit card.
IT never worked VPN for prices for me
What is your carry on luggage dimensions? If you don't remember then what type & model is it?
We use the Away bigger carry-on.
How do you manage breaking up the flights, if one of your flights is cancelled, you loose all the other flights!!!
We have never had a flight get cancelled!!!
The wick ? What’s that?
?
The VPN thing is real! I guess it’s OK, until travel /airlines outlaw it somehow?? We got way cheaper flights to Frankfurt this summer, out of Mexico. We just have to go through Mexico, but that’s not all bad!
Also, if you want to use Credit card miles to get airline tix, the VPN can let you get a lower number of miles deduction, for those flights
Great tips!! Thank you for adding this!!
Some cards limit the number of times you can get free withdrawals per month. Mine only allows two which makes it difficult to estimate how much you are going to need.
We have unlimited with Charles Shwab but usually only use 2 or 3 a month.
You should do a promotion. Give away your Albanian money in exchange for signing up to your newsletter, for example.
Haha... Great idea 😊