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**The Trials of Traveling with Spinner Suitcases on Uneven Terrain**

Traveling can be a thrilling experience, but it introduces its own unique set of hurdles, particularly regarding baggage. The picture is all too common: two weary travelers resting on a bench, a hefty suitcase with a missing wheel, and the man appearing drained from dragging it across cobblestone paths. This situation underscores a widespread problem encountered by numerous travelers: the shortcomings of 4-wheel spinner suitcases on irregular surfaces.

**The Drawbacks of Spinner Suitcases**

Spinner suitcases are built for smooth environments such as airports and hotel lobbies. Their four diminutive wheels facilitate easy navigation in these settings. However, when confronted with uneven surfaces like cobblestones, flagstones, or steps, these suitcases frequently struggle. The small wheels find it difficult to cope with the rugged terrain, resulting in frustration and potential harm to the luggage.

**The Reality of Historical Cities**

In historical cities, especially those showcasing Spanish colonial design, smooth sidewalks are uncommon. Instead, travelers face cobblestones, flagstones, and staircases, complicating navigation with spinner suitcases. Locations such as Guanajuato in Mexico, where the author lives, highlight this challenge. Tourists often battle with their luggage, frequently opting to carry it or look for alternative transport options like taxis or Ubers.

**The Argument for Two-Wheel Suitcases**

For travelers intending to navigate historical cities or move around often, two-wheel suitcases equipped with larger, sturdier wheels are a more suitable option. These suitcases, akin to inline skate wheels, are much better at managing uneven ground. They present a practical solution for those who prefer not to haul a backpack but still require dependable luggage.

**Cultural and Local Considerations**

Besides the physical obstacles posed by uneven surfaces, cultural factors also influence the situation. In Southeast Asia, for instance, sidewalks are frequently occupied by parked motorbikes or merchandise displays, leaving minimal space for travelers with rolling luggage. In numerous developing nations, the lack of regulations akin to the American Disabilities Act means that sidewalks might not be accessible or in good condition, making travel with spinner suitcases even more challenging.

**Useful Luggage Advice for Travelers**

For those planning to venture into areas with uneven surfaces, here are some practical recommendations:

1. **Invest in Durable Luggage:** Look into brands like Osprey and Eagle Creek, recognized for their toughness and lifetime guarantees. These brands provide luggage built to endure frequent travel and rough treatment.

2. **Choose Two-Wheel Suitcases:** Opt for suitcases that feature larger, sturdier wheels capable of managing uneven terrains. These are much more functional for travelers shifting between various locations.

3. **Pack Lightly:** Steer clear of overpacking to facilitate easier carrying of your luggage when necessary. Consider doing laundry on your trip to lessen the amount of clothing you need to pack.

4. **Prepare for Accessibility:** Research your destination to understand the accessibility of sidewalks and available public transport. Be ready for moments when you might have to carry your luggage.

5. **Think About Backpacks:** For those comfortable with them, backpacks provide a hands-free alternative that can be more convenient in specific travel situations.

In summary, while spinner suitcases are advantageous for certain travel scenarios, they might not be the optimal choice for exploring historical cities or areas with uneven surfaces. By selecting suitable luggage and packing wisely, travelers can navigate these difficulties more efficiently and enjoy their adventures with fewer complications.

The less frequently individuals travel, the more likely they are to overspend when they finally get a chance to get away. The vacation spending mindset is affected by numerous external influences, including marketing from some wealthy international hotel corporations. However, if you take a step back and adopt the mentality of a contrarian traveler, it doesn’t need to be this way.

“Yes, we’re really thrilled,” the woman said, gripping the cart with four oversized suitcases meant for two people. “This is our first genuine vacation in four years.”

It seems they required significantly more clothing than I did for their trip to Los Cabos, a destination that rarely experiences temperatures below 75°F. However, the extra baggage fees weren’t the main concern. I calculated their rare vacation’s probable cost based on present flight prices and their stated accommodation and concluded it likely amounted to at least $5,000, perhaps much more.

“We reunite with our long-time friends every four years at a beach resort. We always promise each other to go somewhere else on our own in the meantime, but there’s always something else demanding our spending. So it seldom occurs. Fortunately, this plan is set, which compels us to leave the house and depart.”

Goodness. I was merely overhearing this dialogue in the customs line at the airport, so I didn’t interrupt, but I had a multitude of questions I would have loved to pose. Such as, what are you allocating your finances to that allows for a vacation only every four years? Why not opt for a shorter getaway each year within driving distance? Or visit a different location that costs a fraction of what Los Cabos charges?

What happens to all that accumulated vacation time from your job? Do you just lounge around the house and watch TV?

Based on various studies, the average vacationing American couple spends between $3,800 and $5,200, with the majority of these trips lasting a week or less. This seems like an astonishing amount of money to me. Most of those average couples could enjoy two or three vacations with that sum if they simply became more adept at uncovering great travel deals and refining their choices. Even standard vacation packages offer much better values than that.

More Travel on a Small Budget

No true travel enthusiast would wait four years to escape. During my travels across the globe, I’ve encountered individuals with very modest incomes who manage to spend weeks on the road. I’ve met bartenders, social workers, and teachers who have experienced dozens of countries. The difference is, they’re not booking stays at places like this:

I do stay at such establishments at times due to my travel writing responsibilities, but those instances have been few when I’ve opened my own wallet for them. Like most contrarian travelers, I am skilled at using a calculator and wiser than to follow the crowd.

I don’t take it for granted that the way “most people” travel is the most intelligent approach. If a million individuals are ready to spend $600 a night for a hotel in a location (in Los Cabos this won’t even be a lavish option), then I’ll utilize points or locate where I can have a similar experience for $150 a night or less instead.

Such hotels are not difficult to discover. They might not feature six pools with swim-up bars and rooms larger than your apartment, but they can be quite pleasant if you’re in the right locale. In the World’s Cheapest Destinations book, I’ve pointed out numerous places where that price is actually on the higher end. Even in neighboring Mexico, I’ve frequently paid under $50 for a cozy hotel room complete with a private bath, daily maid service, and air conditioning. Here was my $36 room in Playa del Carmen, which included a swimming pool:

On the subject of Mexico, selecting Mazatlan or Puerto Escondido will halve your beach vacation expenditure compared to the premier resort areas. Venture inland and your budget could decrease by another third or half. Travel down to Guatemala or Honduras, and it will reduce once more. Relax on the star rating of your hotel, and before you know it, that $5,000 could provide two people with travel for a month or more, rather than just six nights of sunbathing and paying for inflated excursion tours.

I completely understand the allure if your goal is simply to relax and destress for a period. I’ve personally spent my money on an all-inclusive resort to keep the family happy. Additionally, when I won stays at such resorts in Puerto Vallarta and Ixtapa through travel writing contests, I was pleased to accept. We had a fantastic time, and few things bring me more joy than an endless open bar.

However, if I had to wait four years to take a vacation just to experience that kind of isolated environment?

The term “expatriate” or its shorter form “expat” can signify various meanings based on the individual it describes. Prior to the internet era, most expatriates were either assigned overseas for work or were retired individuals. The rise of remote work and online entrepreneurs has significantly expanded the population of those residing outside their homeland.

In numerous instances, these [individuals are digital nomads capable of living anywhere](https://www.cheapestdestinationsblog.com/2020/10/21/location-independent-people-live-anywhere-they-want/), while others find themselves in their current location due to significant relationships, such as partners, spouses, or family. Some individuals prefer not to utilize the term “expatriate,” asserting that anyone living abroad should simply be categorized as an immigrant, believing the former term conveys pretentiousness or suggests privilege. However, I see these terms as not entirely interchangeable.

The distinction lies in the aspects of choice and longevity. An expat is *opting* to reside abroad and typically maintains connections to their country of origin. An immigrant, on the other hand, generally relocates due to challenges prompting their departure from their homeland or in pursuit of better financial prospects in a region with superior economic chances. Immigrants often do not intend to return.

Clearly, exceptions exist for both definitions, so a Venn Diagram would illustrate some overlap. Personally, I may never return to the USA, so feel free to label me an immigrant if you wish. A Mexican who comes to Texas for a year to work in construction with no plans of staying is an expat.

Here are several expat classifications that can significantly influence your outcome and overall life experience. Three primary considerations go into [selecting a destination for relocating abroad](https://www.cheapestdestinationsblog.com/2019/03/29/choosing-where-to-live-abroad/), and in all three, priorities will vary based on individual circumstances.

### The Digital Nomad Expatriate

If you’re capable of working via a laptop and can travel lightly, you can embrace the [digital nomad lifestyle](http://www.lonelyplanet.com/travel-tips-and-articles/meet-the-new-digital-nomads) without much concern regarding challenging visa regulations and long-term accommodation options. Assuming you have no children, schooling isn’t a consideration, thus permitting you to explore a multitude of potential destinations.

As a digital nomad, you can legally stay for three months or longer in numerous countries on a tourist visa. Many nations now offer digital nomad visas that allow for temporary stays of one or two years.

One host of the Tropical MBA podcast estimated that he could sustain himself anywhere globally for $2,500 a month or less if we exclude a few high-cost locales like New York, Tokyo, and Zurich. Based on my own experiences living in four different countries, I concur. In many places, you could manage on less than half of that. Just locate an apartment (or extended hotel stay) with reliable internet, [eat as the locals do](https://www.cheapestdestinationsblog.com/2019/10/07/eat-local-drink-local-travel/) and purchase groceries as they would. Once you reach the [tourist visa](https://www.cheapestdestinationsblog.com/2016/05/25/where-can-you-live-more-than-3-months-on-a-tourist-visa/) duration allowed locally, simply pack up and move on.

### The Expat Family Abroad

I have penned several articles and have been frequently cited in the media regarding how families can live abroad inexpensively. We spent three years as a family in Mexico before my daughter left for college. (Currently, I belong to the “empty nester couple who is not yet retired” category.)

Numerous families undertake this journey across every continent, yet it’s often more challenging than for a single adult. Begin by addressing how you will handle education, particularly for children beyond elementary age, where it tends to matter less and there are fewer testing obligations back home. Consider how you will manage language choices as well. (Complete immersion? International schools offering instruction in English? Homeschooling?) Then, refine the prospective locations to those where you feel both safe and intellectually stimulated.

Some parents opt to homeschool their children, which has become more feasible due to the abundance of online resources available. For instance, families can utilize [homeschool math](https://brighterly.com/homeschool-math/) to assist their children in keeping pace with their studies. Others might collaborate with nearby families to create communal learning experiences within their neighborhood.

Given that you have schooling and social activities to consider for the children,

If you’re embarking on a global adventure, beginning a nomadic lifestyle, or simply seeking the best lodging deals during your vacation, taking the time to compare options can significantly affect your nightly rate. While on a road trip, you’ll look for the most affordable motels that offer cleanliness and comfort. When visiting international cities, seek out budget-friendly hotels in prime exploration locales. For those traveling with a backpack, guesthouses and hostels present opportunities to meet fellow adventurers.

The approach to searching for hotel rooms can differ based on your destination and financial plan, but in any scenario, investing a bit of time in research can yield great benefits.

I support the idea of renting an apartment if I’ll be stationed in one place for an extended period, yet often you’re merely passing through, making a hotel room a more suitable option. Moreover, although apartment rentals can be ideal if you require a kitchen or are with family, there are times when opting for a hotel can be more economical and convenient, as you won’t have to manage key exchanges, early luggage storage, or tidying up prior to departure.

If your budget is ample or your employer is covering your expenses, you may not need to be overly cautious regarding hotel costs during your travels. However, when you’re working with a limited personal budget, strategic decisions can lead to affordable hotel rates. This means more funds available for other elements of your getaway.

I personally arrange my hotel accommodations every month or so while traveling, particularly during transit for just a night or two at a specific location. Through my experiences, I’ve picked up various tips for locating clean and budget-friendly motels, as well as economical rooms in cities around the globe nearly every time I travel.

A common error many infrequent American travelers make is assuming that the rest of the world operates similarly to the USA, where chain hotels and motels dominate the landscape. In regions like Asia, Latin America, and Europe, there are significantly more independent hotels and resorts, in addition to chains such as B&B HOTELS (https://www.hotel-bb.com/en) that boast hundreds of reasonably priced options throughout France, Germany, and Italy.

Bear in mind that all the money-saving tactics outlined below are ineffective during peak festival weekends, holiday times, or high seasons. If you’re lacking flexibility and haven’t kept your travel variables open, your options for reducing rates will be limited. You’ll end up paying premium prices by default. Otherwise…

1) Utilize a Hotel Aggregator Service

After years of Trivago’s advertising, it has become clear that room rates are not consistent across various booking platforms like Expedia, Priceline, and official hotel websites. Regardless of how many times a company claims they offer the best price, price discrepancies across sites are frequent.

During your search, many of the “options” available are essentially different branches of the same company. You must evaluate all of them for a proper comparison.

I frequently notice price differences of 10-20% when utilizing Trivago or HotelsCombined, and sometimes the differences are even more substantial. I once booked a hotel in Mexico where the price on Booking.com was half of what it was on Hotels.com. However, this dynamic can also shift the other way. It’s essential to shop around, and these platforms facilitate that process. A single hotel can appear at many different prices, as demonstrated in this screenshot.

I also used to rely on Hotwire frequently, which is beneficial when you are flexible about your accommodations and just want a deal. This method is particularly effective for last-minute reservations when properties aim to fill their partially empty high-rises. However, I’ve noticed that Hotwire’s selection has declined recently. I found fantastic bargains this way for hotels I may have overlooked at standard rates before, but currently, options are limited in most areas.

If you’re dealing with a large hotel chain, there is recourse available. Major companies like Intercontinental Hotels Group and Marriott will reportedly match prices found elsewhere if their rate is higher. Often, you need to complete a form like this to claim the difference.

Occasionally, an independent hotel may also honor lower prices listed elsewhere, but you must invest the time to connect with a front desk manager or reservations representative and discuss it with them. (Refer to the section later about negotiating in person or over the phone.)

Typically, you’ll discover that two companies owned by Priceline offer the widest selections for international travel. Agoda is usually the top choice for guesthouses and hotels in Asia, while Booking.com provides the most options for Latin America and Europe. Both platforms feature a robust review system that

Are you getting ready for a trip through the Sacred Valley of Peru to reach one of the most renowned archaeological locations in the Americas? It’s certainly a popular tourist route, but reaching Machu Picchu is not as straightforward as visiting many other great global attractions. You’ll have to hike for days or catch a train.

Until explorer and Princeton educator Hiram Bingham set foot in Machu Picchu as the first foreigner in 1911, the “lost city of the Incas” was indeed lost. This concealed city did not turn out to be an Inca capital adorned with gold; it was merely a fortress too secluded for the conquistadors to discover. (Vilcabamba was actually the last capital of the Incas before their demise.)

Nonetheless, it was a site filled with awe-inspiring ancient architecture that the locals were aware of, but no one else was. Perched high on a mountain and requiring a strenuous hike to access, it holds numerous secrets that may never be uncovered and enigmas that can’t be solved without a time machine.

The site continues to evoke wonder and admiration today, its image now ingrained in our minds by countless Instagram posts. (Half taken from the exact same location at the Sun Gate.) The government continually raises the daily visitor cap while seeking ways to distribute them throughout the day, introducing more regulations every year or two that strive to balance profit with compliance to UNESCO World Heritage standards.

This delicate array of ruins was never intended to accommodate such large crowds—the limit was just 1,250 per day during my initial visit in the early 2000s—so many price hikes and visitor regulations have been implemented over the years to avoid turning people away while still safeguarding the structures.

This is not a trip where you can just improvise without doing research unless a tour company is managing all the arrangements. Plan ahead for advance tickets and determine how you will get there— the earlier you book, the better.

Your chosen method of arrival will influence your experience, energy, and the time and money you spend. Some travelers are under time constraints, others are concerned about altitude sickness, or whether they’re fit enough for lengthy walks. The journey can be just as intriguing as the destination. The trek to Machu Picchu involves not just the arrival—it also encompasses the experiences along the way.

## Machu Picchu by Train

A train ride to Machu Picchu offers speed, comfort, and significantly less planning effort than hiking options. It is ideal for travelers with limited time or those who prefer simpler logistics. [Machu Picchu rail tours](https://incarail.com/en/tours) from the Cusco and Ollantaytambo train stations provide direct access with dependable schedules. Families, older adults, or individuals with mobility challenges may favor the train.

The train journey is smooth, calm, and gentle on the body. It welcomes travelers of all ages and fitness levels. You can relax and enjoy the scenery without any physical exertion. There are also multiple departure options, as there are trains from the Cusco area or from various places in the Sacred Valley.

You can opt for a “vistadome” style train featuring a glass-panel roof for optimal views. Even the most budget-friendly option provides large windows and expansive vistas of the Andes. You will see rivers, cloud forests, and agricultural land pass by your seat. While it may not be as picturesque as a hike, you do get to view some of the Peruvian countryside. This is the one I took below, although you can upgrade for meal service and fewer passengers per vehicle.

There’s a premium choice available, the Hiram Bingham Train named after the explorer. It’s operated by the same company as Belmond Hotels, formerly Orient-Express, a subsidiary of the world’s largest luxury goods conglomerate LVMH. If your affluent relative is footing the bill, enjoy the complimentary drinks, meals, and entertainment included in the $1,140 round-trip fare.

Trains to Machu Picchu technically operate year-round, but it’s not uncommon for service to be interrupted during the rainy season, and occasionally the tracks have suffered from mudslides or floods requiring weeks of repairs. Unless there’s no alternative, it’s advisable to avoid visiting Machu Picchu from January through March.

## Hiking to Machu Picchu

Reaching Machu Picchu on foot allows you to observe the landscape at a leisurely pace rather than watching it zip past. Trekking is more appealing to adventure enthusiasts, backpackers, and nature aficionados, which was definitively my crowd when I embarked on the Inca Trail in my younger years. Solo adventurers generally appreciate the guided groups accompanying hikes, while couples relish the opportunity to share meals.

Do you recognize the optimal times for purchasing travel gear? The specific date can significantly impact your savings.

Indeed, you can invest in high-quality travel gear and reputable outdoor apparel for your adventures. The key lies in acquiring these items at the right moment, rather than just days before your trip.

I notice many travelers carrying unreliable suitcases, cumbersome jackets that fail to protect against the elements, and attire that is unsuitable for minimal packing. (If your carry-on is too heavy for you to lift alone into the overhead compartment, you have overpacked. Learn to pack better so you won’t delay the boarding process.)

A lot of these individuals, if placed in REI or MEC during peak travel season, might exclaim, “These prices are unaffordable for me.” The reality is, you don’t have to settle for those retail prices if you are patient and knowledgeable about optimal buying times.

You aren’t compelled to accept such steep prices to acquire quality travel gear, backpacks, and clothing. All you need to do is shop during low-demand periods, when the consumers dictate the conditions. Currently, as I compose this, that’s the case — late September. Summer travel has concluded, back-to-school shopping is finished, and soon the temperatures will begin to drop in most regions of the USA and Canada. It’s clearance season at retailers.

However, this isn’t the sole opportunity for fantastic deals. There are various points in the year that represent the best times to buy travel gear. Whenever stores need to clear out old inventory to make way for new merchandise, you will discover significant discounts.

Brands like Columbia, Patagonia, and North Face introduce new styles at least biannually, and if you purchase the previous styles at the time those fresh items debut, you can snag incredible deals. Take a look at this report on one of my preferred travel clothing brands for a discount on their website: Craghoppers.

Those discounts are beneficial, but not uncommon. You can uncover similar promotions from numerous other travel apparel companies if you search for “sale” or “clearance” in their navigation menus when transitioning between seasons.

Here is a page from the sale section at Backcountry.com. You can acquire excellent gear that may just be last year’s color (and perhaps a tad heavier) for 1/3 of the original price. Or if you’re heading somewhere warm while it’s cold where the retailer is located, take advantage of it!

So, what are the prime times for purchasing travel gear?

If you’re chasing the latest and trendiest periods for buying travel gear, it’s when the new 800-page Vogue edition is published in spring and fall. You’ll receive the latest and greatest in “this year’s must-have colors.”

That’s also when numerous deals commence to clear out existing stock. Click on these links for a glimpse of some sales occurring at the time of writing, as we transition into fall, shifting from summer attire to autumn and winter wear. If you read this later and the link leads to a homepage, seek out a section labeled “Outlet,” “Bargain Bin,” or “Sale.”

Explore the sale offerings at REI

Browse the clearance section at Backcountry.com

The second major transition occurs in the spring, when jackets are priced to move and bikinis arrive in stores. Logically, this should transpire around May, but it truly ramps up around February — peak ski season. If items aren’t performing well from the winter collection, they’ll have already recognized that by this time, and discounts will increase as spring approaches.

As we reach late March and April, both physical and online outlets will be liquidating base layers, goggles, and beanies for the cost of a six-pack of craft beer.

There are also smaller pivotal moments where discounts become prominent, typically coinciding with shopping holidays. Labor Day will prompt sales due to favorable timing, but so will Thanksgiving, Father’s Day, and President’s Day.

Purchasing Travel Clothing Direct Can Be Surprisingly Affordable

In addition to the online retailers mentioned before, many brands operate their own stores and may be quick to discount items that aren’t selling swiftly. This doesn’t imply there’s anything wrong with them; it usually signifies that a new style or color is coming to replace the former one. These travel apparel businesses operate on a cycle similar to fashion brands and face equivalent pressures to introduce something fresh each season.

Simply stating, “Our travel shirt is highly popular, so we’re keeping it unchanged” often doesn’t suffice for most brands, especially those under large corporate umbrellas. To secure new orders, they must present buyers with a revamped version. While this may not seem logical, it’s the reality of the industry. (This is

In my continuous search for the finest travel gear and apparel, I have recently included several new items from Toad and Co (also referred to as Toad&Co) in my luggage. These pieces have proven to be trustworthy companions on my latest journeys, and I expect them to become essential elements of my travel wardrobe.

Over the years, my travel bag has been stocked with reliable essentials from brands such as ExOfficio and Craghoppers. However, with ExOfficio ceasing the production of travel apparel and Craghoppers temporarily concentrating on the UK market, I’ve had to look into other alternatives. Fortunately, Craghoppers has returned to the USA, allowing me to reintroduce their products into my collection.

Previously, I would incorporate items from Columbia, Mountain Khakis, Icebreaker, and other brands. However, finding prAna clothing enabled me to transition effortlessly from business meetings to outdoor excursions without the need for multiple wardrobes. This motivated me to seek out similarly versatile items, prompting me to look into Toad and Co’s selections.

Shirts from Toad and Company I Tested

During my latest travels, I tried out two shirts from Toad and Co. The first was a short-sleeve shirt made mostly of hemp, while the second was a long-sleeve fleece shirt created from synthetic materials. The Taj Hemp Short Sleeve shirt, in the “Salt Dobby” shade, was particularly impressive. Comprising 54% hemp, Tencel Lyocell for softness and wrinkle resistance, and 2% Elastane for stretch, it offered comfort and kept its appearance even after being stored in my suitcase for long periods.

The Kennicott Shirt Jacket, a long-sleeve fleece item, became a versatile basic during my trips. With a wool/synthetic blend, it served me well in various environments, from après-ski gatherings to lengthy flights. While I did notice some lint in the washer filter after the initial wash, this issue decreased over time. The shirt is available in “True Navy” and “Falcon Brown” and has become quite popular, with some sizes being limited.

Another Excellent Pair of Travel Pants

When it comes to travel pants, I emphasize comfort, practicality, and aesthetics. The Rover II 5 Pocket Lean Pant from Toad & Co checks all those boxes. Crafted from a combination of recycled nylon, new nylon, and stretch material, these pants are lightweight and have a PFC-free DWR finish for stain resistance. Despite the “5 pockets” in the name, they remain sleek, featuring a zippered back pocket for enhanced security.

Sustainable Travel Apparel

Selecting travel clothing that aligns with eco-friendly practices is essential. Toad and Co is dedicated to reducing their environmental footprint by using premium, low-impact materials like organic cotton, hemp, TENCEL Lyocell, and recycled fibers. They aim to eliminate plastic from their shipping processes by 2026 and rely on solar-powered and certified organic factories for their production.

For those interested in sustainable and versatile travel clothing, Toad and Co provides an array of options for both men and women. Discover their collection at Toadandco.com.

For additional information on my preferred travel gear and clothing, check out my favorite travel gear and apparel.