I remember it as clear as day. I was sitting at the nail salon 3 years ago in anticipation of getting engaged on Valentine’s Day the next week … I know… how basic can I be? Fortunately, my husband has always had a hard time keeping secrets so I knew that I should, at the very least, be prepared. Like usual, I went for the first travel magazine I spotted. I believe it was a…
Top 3 Travel Cards You Should Get NOW
I read a statistic somewhere that a large percentage of US citizens still use their debit card as the main form of payment for day to day spending. This, if you’re an aspiring traveler, is a HUGE mistake causing you to miss out on free cash back and travel awards every year. I have not paid for a flight in the past three years, and I don’t plan to unless the airlines change their award…
The Truth About Cranking Travel Credit Cards
I’ve spoken with quite a few friends and family who are concerned about having too many credit cards and what that might do to your credit score. It is a very valid concern. However keep in mind that debt like mortgages, student loans, and car loans are the best way to build your credit and have the largest impact. I have had 8 different travel award credit cards (4 that remain open) at this point…
The Art of Travel
As I wedge myself into the back of a top-heavy bus winding up the hairpin-turns of the high Atlas Mountains of Morocco, I realize….. this trip is not for me. It’s not the location or the food or the culture that’s the problem. The problem is the way I’m experiencing it; cramped, on tour bus going from stop to stop with no free time. To me this is the worst travel has to offer and…
The Ultimate Guide to Packing your Suitcase
Most well traveled road warriors have their own packing trade secrets, and usually some strong opinions on the fold vs. roll technique. I’ll admit, I take on packing like a new 1000 piece puzzle challenge to be masterfully put together. I’m always strategizing on how I can fit clothes and gear into the least amount of space possible, utilizing every square inch. I thought I was a world class packer… until one day I learned…
About Wanderlust Bound
Stay tuned! Wanderlust Bound is introducing group travel! COMING SOON!!
Purchase Airfare like a Travel Pro
There is no secret formula for getting the lowest possible fare EVERY time you purchase. However, there are avenues to ensure you at least come close to that elusive, budget-friendly fare. I’ve compiled a list of apps and sites I use to research and purchase award travel and cash purchased flights. Search Engines First, I ALWAYS check Google Flights. If you’re using chrome, all you have to do is type in the flight route you’re…
When Things Go Terribly Wrong on a Travel Day
I’ve always considered myself a very independent person, but sometimes my stress gets the best of me. From time to time, we all need to be pushed to our limits. Here’s the thing: sometimes stressful situations arise that we aren’t quite prepared for, especially when you are traveling. So how do you handle that? Here’s a hint – I didn’t do so well… A couple of months ago, I had a flight from DC to Barcelona with…
Step-by-Step Guide: Passports & Visas
A passport is just a blue little book with your picture in it, but it holds pages and pages of possibilities. It’s like the world is at your fingertips when you hold one. My wish is that everyone could have the experience of travel. If you are traveling internationally you must have a passport. Period. Many countries also require a visa. Getting a new passport is not cheap and takes time, so make sure you…
Complete Guide to Carry-On Essentials
Let’s be honest, I survive international flights. I definitely don’t thrive in any sense of the word. Travel days can be hard. A curated carry-on list will make your trip exponentially more comfortable. This is my complete list of carry-on MUST-HAVES for international trips. You are welcome! IN MY WALLET Passport and Drivers license (if you are driving internationally) 1-2 travel credit cards (Chase Sapphire Reserve and Chase Ink) and 1 debit card (Charles Schwab)…