Hey, folks! So, I’ve got this trip coming up next month, and it’s going to be my first time crashing at a hostel. Yeah, I know, I’m diving headfirst into that budget travel life. I’ve gone ahead and booked a spot in an 8-person room – fingers crossed for some chill roomies.

Now, here’s where I need your advice. I’ve got two flight options, and both of them aren’t exactly a walk in the park. The first one means I’ll be stuck with a 2-hour layover and won’t reach my destination until the ungodly hour of 3 am. The other option? A whopping 10-hour layover, with a way more humane arrival time of 10 am. Throw in an hour for getting from the airport to the hostel, and things start to look a bit more complicated.

I shot the hostel an email to see if it’s cool for me to roll up at 4 am for check-in. They replied saying it’s all good and that they’ll hook me up with self-check-in instructions. But, here’s the thing – I’m not entirely sure if this is one of those “yeah, technically you can, but don’t be that guy” situations. Like, are there unwritten rules about this stuff when it comes to hostels? I’m leaning towards the early flight because, let’s be real, who wants to spend an extra 7 hours in an airport?

I’ve done a bit of digging, and it turns out the airport I’ll be stuck in does have these fancy sleep pods. Sounds pretty sweet, right? Well, not so much when you see the price tag. Those things are way out of my budget for a full night’s kip. I figure if I do go for the early arrival, I’ll try to be as ninja-like as possible. You know, get all my stuff sorted outside of the room, so I’m not disturbing anyone while I rummage through my bag at stupid o’clock.

So, what’s the verdict, team? Should I take the plunge and opt for the early flight, or play it safe with the longer layover? Hit me up with your thoughts – I could really use some guidance here!

So, I recently rented a car from Budget at CMH airport in Columbus, OH. Everything seemed fine until I returned the car and got hit with a sneaky charge of $16.99 for refueling. The thing is, I had just filled up the tank before returning the car. When I checked the email receipt, it mentioned that they would charge for refueling unless I showed a gas receipt. That’s not a standard practice with car rentals in the US. Usually, they check the gauge, and if it’s full, no extra charges.

But here’s the kicker – the Budget employee didn’t even bother to glance at the fuel gauge or ask me if I refueled. It felt like they were trying to pull a fast one on me. So, I called Budget to sort things out, and they said they would refund the money if I provided them with a credit card statement. I did as they asked, and they eventually refunded the amount.

This whole situation left a bad taste in my mouth. It seems like Budget is banking on customers not paying attention to the fine print or being too lazy to dispute the charges. The fact that their employee didn’t even bother to ask for a gas receipt clearly shows that this is a deliberate tactic to squeeze extra money out of people. So, if you’re planning to rent from Budget, be on your guard and double-check everything!

In conclusion, my experience with Budget at CMH airport was marred by this shady refueling charge incident. It’s a reminder to always be vigilant when dealing with rental car companies, as some may try to pull a fast one on you. Make sure to check your receipts and question any dubious charges to avoid falling victim to these sneaky tactics. Stay alert and don’t let companies like Budget take advantage of you!

Hey there, fellow travelers! So, like many of you, I’ve been living the nomadic lifestyle for a while now. My “home base” is in the UAE, but I only spend a few months there each year, and when I’m away, I hop around renting places on a monthly basis. Now, being constantly on the move poses a bit of a challenge when it comes to safeguarding my valuables, like my treasured watches. I bet some of you can relate, whether it’s your partner’s jewelry, cash stash, important documents, or any other high-value items that you hold dear.

The struggle is real, right? I mean, without a fixed abode, there’s nowhere secure to stash your precious belongings and just forget about them. Carrying them with you everywhere is nerve-wracking, but leaving them behind feels equally risky. I find myself constantly fretting over a few key concerns:

First off, the fear of theft, especially in hotels or Airbnbs. It’s unnerving to think that even the property owners could be potential culprits. Then there’s the anxiety about staying safe while flaunting or toting around something valuable. And let’s not even get started on the nerve-wracking scenarios that could unfold at borders or airports, particularly in non-western countries where customs may have strict rules about declaring high-value items. Do you declare it and risk drawing unwanted attention? Or do you stay mum and hope for the best? And what about insurance coverage? Would they have my back if something untoward happens abroad?

So, here I am, pondering my options. Should I sell off my beloved watches and other luxury items, thinking maybe the peace of traveling unburdened might outweigh the sentimental value? Or perhaps I should stash them in a security box back in the UAE, even though it means being separated from them for months on end. Or do I just embrace the uncertainty and carry on?

I’d love to hear from all you seasoned globetrotters out there who share my passion for luxury goods. How do you navigate this tricky terrain? Have you faced similar dilemmas and, if so, how did you tackle them? I’m particularly keen on hearing about any encounters with border control – now that’s a whole other ball game!

Let’s swap stories, share tips, and commiserate over the trials and tribulations of being perpetual wanderers with a taste for the finer things in life.

Hey there, I’m gearing up for a pretty epic trip to Japan, China (specifically Beijing and Tibet), and Nepal this November. I’ve been thinking about getting e-sims for my adventure. Now, the big question on my mind is whether I should go for a nomad e-sim that covers all three countries or get separate ones for each. I’m curious about how easy it is to switch between them and if there are any tricks to it. Speaking of China, do I need a VPN if I have an e-sim? And if so, what’s the best one to use right now?

Now, let’s talk cash. I know I’ll need a mix of currencies for my journey – USD for Tibet, Yen for Japan, RMB for China, and Nepali rupees for Nepal. I’m thinking it might be simplest to just withdraw all the cash I need before I jet off, but man, that’s a lot of dough to lug around. Is it even easy to get USD in China, and where’s the best place to swap currencies – airport or ATMs?

Also, I’m all about making my life easier with apps. Right now, I’ve got Tableog and Smartex for Japan, Alipay and WeChat for China, and Pathao for Nepal. Any other app recommendations to streamline my journey would be totally appreciated.

So, here’s the deal. After years of full-time nomading, living in different places for 3 to 4 months at a time, I’m starting to feel the need to slow down a bit. I’m thinking of settling in one city for most of the year, but don’t worry, I’ll still be hitting the road now and then because, let’s face it, that travel bug never really goes away. One thing I’ve really grown accustomed to is the sweet deal of paying lower taxes under the US Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) and enjoying the generally lower cost of living in the spots I’ve been crashing at.

Now, here’s the kicker. While cutting back on my nomad lifestyle will definitely simplify things and save me some cash (goodbye, expensive flights), it also means taking a hit on the financial front. I’ll have to start shelling out taxes in the country where I decide to set up camp, and let’s not forget about the cost of living in that new spot (which, by the way, happens to be pricier). It’s a bit of a tough pill to swallow, but I figure it’s time to make the sacrifice for a bit more stability in my life. I’m looking forward to having a home base, a solid group of friends, better chances at finding a special someone, and, of course, my very own space to call home sweet home.

I know, I know, being able to live the nomad life is a real privilege, and I’m totally aware of how lucky I’ve been to experience it. So, don’t get me wrong, I’m not complaining. I’m just curious about how others who’ve been in my shoes felt when they made the switch and how they see things now. It’s all about finding that balance between adventure and stability, right? And hey, maybe this new chapter will bring a whole different kind of excitement to my life. Who knows, right?

I recently came across a fascinating tale about a remarkably sturdy leather rucksack with a rich history. In filmmaker Werner Herzog’s memoir, he recalls receiving this bag from travel writer Bruce Chatwin, who passed away from AIDS-related complications in 1989. Chatwin had originally described himself to Herzog as “*tall and blond and look like a schoolboy*” carrying a leather rucksack. Despite Chatwin’s demise, Herzog continues to use the bag regularly, valuing it above all his possessions. The rucksack, crafted by a saddler in Cirencester, had already traveled thousands of miles with Chatwin before becoming Herzog’s cherished possession.

The significance of this bag is not merely sentimental; it played a crucial role in Herzog’s own survival during a perilous mountain ordeal. In the film *Scream of Stone*, inspired by Chatwin’s rucksack, Herzog depicts a harrowing experience where he and his companions faced near-death circumstances in freezing mountains. With minimal supplies and harsh conditions, Herzog, using Chatwin’s empty rucksack, huddled in a makeshift shelter to endure the freezing temperatures. While some claim the rucksack saved his life, Herzog acknowledges that it was the collective body warmth that kept them alive.

Herzog’s connection to the rucksack runs deep, leading him to dedicate a documentary, *Nomad: In the Footsteps of Bruce Chatwin*, to Chatwin’s memory and the significance of the rugged bag. Through this film, Herzog shares his experiences with the rucksack and the poignant story of how Chatwin entrusted it to him before his passing. This bag, though heavy and not particularly modern, symbolizes resilience and endurance, making it a tangible link to the adventurous spirit of Chatwin and Herzog.

In conclusion, the leather rucksack embodies more than just a functional item; it represents a lasting bond between two extraordinary individuals and their shared experiences of survival and exploration. The bag’s enduring legacy serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of adventure and the profound connections that can be forged through shared hardships and cherished possessions. This story serves as a reminder of the power of objects to transcend their material value and carry profound emotional significance.

Hey guys, just got back from my awesome five-day adventure in Lisbon and wanted to share some quick thoughts with you. The city was absolutely stunning, and the weather was surprisingly pleasant, especially compared to the scorching heat I endured in Rome last summer. Lisbon was bustling with tourists, but once I strayed away from the main areas like Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Chiado, the crowds thinned out significantly. Exploring the quieter streets of Estrela, Alcantara, and Misericordia was so peaceful, with only a few tourists crossing my path until I hit LX Factory.

As I wandered around, I couldn’t help but notice the many rundown and abandoned buildings scattered throughout the city. It got me thinking about the city’s plans for them – are they going to be demolished, or are they simply not a priority for the local authorities? Personally, I found them charming, yet they did take up quite a bit of space.

One of the highlights of my trip was stumbling upon a live fado performance at the Fado Museum. It was such a magical and unexpected experience that I highly recommend checking out. Now, I’m not sure if they have live singing every day, but it’s definitely worth looking into.

On the flip side, my first day in Lisbon had a bit of a sour moment. Shortly after leaving my hotel, I was approached by a guy offering to sell me marijuana or cocaine, right in the midst of a crowd of tourists. Another person later tried to sell me marijuana with hand signals at Praça do Município. It was a bit uncomfortable, to say the least.

Let’s talk about the metro – Lisbon’s public transportation system is a dream. The metro is super easy to navigate, quick, and dirt cheap. I hopped on from the airport to the city center for under 4 euros total – no need for pricey taxis or Ubers.

Funny thing though, I couldn’t help but wonder why the locals pegged me as a tourist right away. In Turkey, Italy, France, and Spain, I managed to blend in, but in Portugal, I stuck out like a sore thumb. What did I miss or do differently here? Guess I’ll have to work on my undercover skills for next time!

Overall, Lisbon was a fantastic destination, especially for solo travelers like myself. The mix of history, culture, and vibrant atmosphere made for an unforgettable trip. If you’re planning your next adventure

Hey there, folks! So, I recently bid farewell to my trusty Fjallraven Raven backpack, which has been my go-to since the end of 2019. Why the switch, you ask? Well, I snagged a sweet deal on the Herschel Kaslo a few days back and couldn’t resist. But before I part ways with my old faithful, I wanted to share some thoughts in this little review.

Let me start with what I absolutely love about the Fjallraven Raven. First off, the sheer number of pockets is mind-blowing. The laptop compartment is top-notch, snugly fitting my 14-inch MacBook and 11-inch iPad with ease. I even managed to squeeze in two 14-inch MacBooks and my Switch at times, and everything felt secure as Fort Knox. Plus, the bonus of slipping in loose papers without a single crinkle? Priceless.

Then, there’s the easy-access top compartment, a real game-changer. Surprisingly spacious, it doesn’t encroach on the main compartment’s space – perfect for stashing all sorts of goodies. Speaking of which, that main compartment is a black hole of storage potential. I once survived a week-long trip using only this bag, and it aced the grocery-hauling test too. The inner pocket is a handy touch for quick grabs, like my precious sunglasses, which miraculously survived the brim-filled bulging.

Let’s not forget the second front pocket, unzipping all the way down for easy access even when the bag’s bursting at the seams. The organizational wizardry inside keeps my random knickknacks like pens, bandaids, and the like in check. Although, a slight hiccup with the stitching in one of the pockets over time.

The main front pocket serves its purpose, housing essentials like my wallet and hand sanitizer, though a tad tricky to navigate when the bag’s crammed full. And can we talk about the classy leather handle and logo aging like fine wine over the six years we’ve been through together?

As for wear and tear, the bottom took a beating in the last couple of years, understandably from rubbing against my back. But hey, the zippers are still going strong, so no biggie.

Now, on to the niggles. The backpack’s eternal struggle to stand on its own – a common gripe that I’ve learned to live with. The side pockets are a bit sting

I’ve been into one-bagging for a couple of years now, mainly for work trips lasting around a week. I initially tried out some cheap compression cubes from Amazon to keep things organized and fit more into my 40L backpack with minimal effort. The first set I got was a bargain at 15 bucks for six pieces, and they did the job fine in the beginning. However, after a few flights, the zippers started acting up, and one even tore at the seam when I packed too many socks. It was a hassle to tape it back together, especially when I was stuck in a hotel room without proper tools.

I then switched to a different brand, possibly knockoffs of Eagle Creek cubes, but those quickly lost their shape and failed to compress well after just one wash. Now, they’re just floppy bags taking up space in my drawer. Since I travel every couple of months, I’ve decided it’s time to invest in something more durable that won’t break the bank. I’m looking to spend around 40-50 bucks on a set of four or five cubes that can compress layers effectively and prevent odors from dirty laundry.

I’m seeking recommendations for compression cubes that can last a season or two without falling apart. I’m particularly interested in insights on materials like nylon versus other options that might make a difference in terms of durability. Additionally, I’m curious about the best way to clean these cubes without damaging the zippers. If you’ve had experiences with seemingly good cubes that turned out to be duds in the long run, please share your insights so I can avoid making the same mistakes and save myself from having to repurchase every year.

Hey there! So, I just got my hands on this bag that arrived in the mail today. Another user shared some pics, but I don’t have more to add right now unless you have something specific in mind. I just want to share a few thoughts in case you’re on the fence about trying or buying this bag. Let me compare it a bit to the Mini MLC I had before.

First off, let’s talk about the laptop/admin panel. Unlike the Mini MLC, the laptop space in this bag isn’t separate. It’s in the main compartment and has less organization. The 14″ MacBook Pro might slide around a bit in there, but it’s padded on both sides. There’s a bit of padding on the back panel that’s missing on the front, and the top cover has some padding too. While the laptop may feel loose, you can squeeze in a laptop sleeve for extra padding, although it takes up more space. I managed to fit a Cotopaxi 14″ laptop sleeve in there by bending it a bit.

Moving on to the admin panel, it surprisingly offers decent organization with pen pockets, slip pocket, zip mesh pocket, and a large zip pocket. Just be cautious with bulky items pushing into each other. The main space is roomy, similar to the Mini MLC, with a mesh that zips around. You can stuff a bunch of items in there, and the front outside pocket is expandable, though it gets snug when the main compartment is full.

The external lash loops can be attached across the front or back panel, but they might block zippers. The backpack shoulder straps are comfy, and there’s space to add a hip belt for stability. The messenger strap is basic, with no padding. The bag’s material is a mix of rubberized and standard, with the rubberized part possibly aiding in waterproofing.

One thing I found unnecessary is the two small handles on the front. They could have been replaced with a cup holder. I plan to use this bag for a test run and then possibly for travel. The noble grey color is a nice balance of subtle and colorful, and the logo isn’t too flashy.

Overall, this bag seems versatile and spacious, though a bit bulky when fully loaded. If you have any specific questions or need a closer look at any part, feel free to ask. The online images don’t do it justice, so happy to help out!