Downsizing and Minimalizing for Full- Time Travel - Declutter and Travel with Less

[@BrianandCarrie]

You can find all our top travel essentials on our website: www.brianandcarrietravels.com/shop Happy packing 😊

[@ShaneRobinsonArtist]

Hi Carrie & Brian! Thank You so much for sharing your amazing info! I just wanted to let you know, a little while ago I signed up for your "AirBnB Checklist" and it was delivered immediately. Then I signed up for your "Ultimate Carry-on Packing List" and it never arrived. I tried several more times, and also checked spam, but it never arrived. So... Working in tech for the last 30 years I knew to try using a different email address. That worked and the packing list was delivered immediately. I wanted to let you know that if a person signs up for one of your lists, and it's the first time they've done that they'll receive the download email, but if they use the same email address to signup for another list, Flodesk will NOT deliver the download email.

[@gregattanasio3185]

This is great “Think of the cool things you can DO instead of cool things you have.” Great channel guys, thanks for your thoughtful content

[@BrianandCarrie]

Thank you for watching; Greg!

[@dangcjr]

We are listening to you guys as well as like John and Bev, decided to go with a travel backpack and a small day pack as personal item. We did start down sizing when we put the house up for sale and going to do the last step in the coming couple of weeks as we close on our house, and joining this life style. Thank you guys for your help and inspiration!

[@BrianandCarrie]

John and Bev are rock stars!! We would love to meet them someday!! Thank you for watching and commenting! We very much appreciate the support. Cheers!

[@lindadorman2869]

When I worked as a chef, I wore a uniform so I got used to wearing the same outfit every day. Now I wear the same style of pants and shoes, and just switch up tops I can buy anywhere. I sold my home and nearly everything else before traveling full-time. I put some things in storage but it got too expensive after a year. Now I rent a studio apartment as a home base to keep a physical street address in the US and run my home-based business in-between trips.

[@BrianandCarrie]

Sounds like you've figured out a great plan. A home base is nice for many reasons , if it's financially accessible. Thanks so much for watching Cheers!

[@ParisianThinker]

Excellent idea to keep an address in the states. Helps with bank & brokerage accounts. Also needed when you die.

[@joethecomputerguy1]

I sold everything 7+ years ago. It was so freeing and liberating. I full time in an RV and almost everything I own is with me. I have a 5x5 storage unit that I keep some things that I did not want to get rid of. I am good with that now. It was tough in the beginning. Selling "stuff" yielded thousands of dollars and so glad I did it. It took me 18 months to sell everything. I had sooooooo much stuff!

[@BrianandCarrie]

It's quite a process for sure, but feels so good when it's done. The RV is a nice way to keep some of your things with you as well. Cheers!!

[@lisakelly5698]

We are currently in the selling and downsizing phase. It’s hard, but we know it will be worth it when we head off on that first trip! 🛫

[@bcr8tve]

Bombas cotton socks and Ondo no show are hands down best on the planet. So much insight in these videos.

[@BrianandCarrie]

Thank you!!

[@MirandaLow22]

Such a helpful video for any type of travellers. We are on the last leg of our 3-month adventure and we used so many of your suggestions. Those small packable grocery bags are a lifesaver. I bought a bunch of them as souvenirs so my friends have them too! We only had a small carry on suitcase, and a backpack as our personal item and it was all we needed too. We won’t ever go back to hauling a large suitcase. We actually used big Ziploc bags as packing cubes. We pushed out all the air and got them to squish down really well. I was pleasantly surprised at how well they worked for us. Smart wool clothing holds up so well, doesn’t smell and dries quickly for anyone looking for good quality travel wear. Great job Carrie and Brian! Enjoy your next adventures.

[@BrianandCarrie]

The grocery bags are so nice, saves on plastic and the bag fee. I like your Ziploc bag suggestion, they can multi purpose to if needed. Thanks so much for watching 😊

[@kevinandmerrandaalbert2026]

I love my shampoo and conditioner bars and my soft makeup eraser cloth❤❤

[@paulrumohr]

I am loving these long form in depth videos. If you make 'em, I will watch!

[@BrianandCarrie]

Glad you enjoy them! We are excited to bring a good variety of content with our podcast series addition. Cheers!!

[@DR.CyberSecurity]

I cannot explain to you how timely this video was for me. Thank you for what you do.

[@BrianandCarrie]

Thank you so much for watching!!

[@jerrygarcia4390]

Samesies ❤👍🏾

[@kenmcclow8963]

I have two collapsible water bottles that lay flat and I fill them at a water fountain or sink once I get past security. They have a carabiner to clip onto a bag or belt. I like to use a power bank that I plug into the wall and then I charge all my devices from that. I have a smaller one that unfolds with a solar panel that can recharge itself and can charge all the things if you are away from an outlet. It just needs about 4 hours of sun to charge itself. My new thing is collapsible silicone cups, bowls and a tea kettle. The tea kettle works with 110, or 220 power. I’m not sure how dedicated I will be to carry the bowl and kettle, but the cup I will keep. It’s very stable and has a lid

[@BrianandCarrie]

Wonderful suggestions, thanks so much for sharing 😊

[@ParisianThinker]

Please leave the links to your purchases. I need them

[@chadparks9810]

My wife Kristi and I love staying caught up with you guys and your travels. The $10 bucks is a special Thanks for including some "bloopers" in one of your videos from about 5 months ago when you were in someone's home where they had lots of "stuff" as you both stated. Please include some more of those bloopers when possible...fun reality right there!

[@BrianandCarrie]

Thank you so much, Chad and Kristi! We have plenty of bloopers that's for sure! 😁 We will include a few in the weeks to come!!! Thanks again! Cheers!!

[@colleenn3301]

Loving your podcast series! Even though my husband and I are not in a position to sell everything, you are inspiring me to declutter and re-think all of the stuff (junk) we have. You’re also inspiring us to figure out ways to take longer trips! Thanks for all of the great content you’re sharing!

[@BrianandCarrie]

So happy you find the info helpful and it's inspiring you to Minimalize a bit and take longer trips. Cheers!!

[@696969bold]

Great tips! If laptop is too heavy and you need the Windows or Mac OS, consider a Mini PC and a portable 13" monitor. Save weight and space. Ounces = Pounds I can live without a laptop. DeX is a great option with Miracast to TV or an HDMI cable. Microsoft Foldable Keyboard and a BT mouse ...instant office🤔 Sawyer makes a great filter with adapters. Phillips UV and Grayl can get heavy. Electrolyte drops go in my TSA liquids bag. Really helps combat jet lag, long haul dehydration. Consider third party silicone cord for your airpods on the plane or sleep. Airfly adapter is great! Best advice ever: figue out what works for you ❤

[@BrianandCarrie]

Thanks for all the great tips. Thanks for watching and happy travels 😊

[@skincaremakeup40]

Downsizing is my favourite part of the process of organizing my annual summer one-month road trip.I love not having to choose but just enjoy from what every day has to offer me

[@BrianandCarrie]

Totally agree!

[@the_real_ick]

I've come to the conclusion that all that "stuff" I've collected along the way during my life really has become more of a burden as I get ready to retire and start traveling. I cannot wait to downsize!

[@BrianandCarrie]

Downsizing is an amazing feeling!! Stuff becomes a burden and gets in the way of more exciting experiences! Thank you for watching and commenting!! 😀

[@elizaC3024]

We are increasing our traveling and reducing our belongings as well. But our last downsizing but us in a very low cost to own home, so we won't be selling it. We can close it up and go with a small amount of effort. The idea of being more spontaneous with our traveling is our goal.

[@sunmand6136]

@BrainandCarrie - I don't think you guys get enough credit for the all good stuff you put out. For instance, all this info about property management that is really useful. Thank you !.

[@BrianandCarrie]

We really appreciate your kind words and support. We feel so fortunate to be doing what we are doing. Cheers!!

[@MarleneGreen]

Excellent Practical tips! Always LOVE that you share details & the thought process you use for your decisions in your conversations. These evergreen tips will be of value to viewers eternally. Safe Travels & Continued Success! Thank you & Cheers!

[@BrianandCarrie]

Thank you so much, we are so happy you found the information helpful 😊

[@MikeS29]

Oh, and we love the laundry sheets too! New discovery for us.

[@BrianandCarrie]

Suge a space saver and bonus, keeps everything in our bag smelling great.

We rented our family home and are now travelling full time. The rent we received is our passive income. We also have dividends stocks. Can’t put all your eggs in one basket so to speak. There has been times when we have been dealing with house issues through the property manager. It would have been easier if we were there but it is part of juggling our investments and travelling. Selling a house is a big call so don’t rush it. Getting back in the property market, specially in the area we live, would be impossible for us.

[@BrianandCarrie]

We completed understanding where your coming from. Having a home base and passive income would be great. There are pros and cons to everything!! Thank you for watching and safe travels!!

[@maryswanson2412]

All your videos are so helpful. I can’t wait to go minimal and sell my house and get out there! 🥳

[@BrianandCarrie]

So happy you found them helpful... Hope your go time is soon 😊. Cheers!!

[@donnabosilkovski7580]

Thanks guys, Perfect timing on this video. I am back in Australia after 5 months in Thailand. I am currently going through the "getting rid of all my stuff" I am only here for a month (going back to Thailand) so not much time to think too much. I was wondering about my winter clothes actually, as I won't be needing them now, but might down the track. It is definitely mentally challenging for sure. I have collected a lot of things in my lifetime!

[@BrianandCarrie]

It's such a process for sure. I will say many of the things I thought I'd need, I recently just donated to a rummage sale while home. In the end, a pair of winter shoes a jacket and maybe a few pairs of pants are all I really need. You get used to so little it makes it easy. Cheers!!

[@d.y.e3803]

If I were to ever become a minimalist, I would shock myself. LOL! Great that you guys can do it. Friends who travel up to half a year at a time, still have their residences to come back to when they eventually come home. Most retired in their mid-50s and are in their 60s now. For me, it's been decades of traveling back and forth overseas, but then coming home to everything still set up. Up until early retirement, also in my mid-50s, I would come home to see parents, siblings, other family members, friends, take care of things, make money, and then eventually leave again. And after early retirement, it has basically been the same up to and into the beginning of the 2020 shutdowns. Thank goodness, I got home about a month before the shutdowns. As for packing, I'm back and forth on that one. I remember on the first solo trip to S.E. Asia in the late 90s, I left with only a tiny carry-on bag and a handbag. My mom drove me to LAX and couldn't believe that that was all that I had. But, I usually travel with wheeled luggage which works fine for me. I'm female, traveling solo, and don't want to constantly lug bags. I need to roll stuff and sometimes wheeled carry-on suitcases can end up having to be checked anyhow as some airlines are stricter than others. So, if something is going to end up having to be checked, then it might as well be a large, wheeled suitcase. Packing is so individual. As for packing cubes, I personally love them. Have used them for decades. When I get to my destination, I thrown them into a dresser drawer and don't unpack them. Then, when it's time to repack and move on, I just throw them all back into my original piece of luggage and off to the next destination. Greetings from Los Angeles

[@BrianandCarrie]

It's definitely not the way for everyone. But, being minimalist for us has been incredibly freeing. Thanks as always for watching and commenting. Cheers!!

[@d.y.e3803]

@@BrianandCarrie It would be stressful for me. LOL! Keep up the great work, guys. Greetings from Los Angeles

[@FollowingTheStones]

All great ideas, and I'm glad to see i've been using nearly all of them. (Essential item list). I am more than frustrated at airlines now counting a fanny pack as a personal item. I loved carrying my security style one with my passport, ID, copies of essential documents, cash, charging cords and ear buds in them.

[@BrianandCarrie]

I've yet to be stopped for a fanny pack. One easy go around is wear it under your jacket or sweatshirt 😊

[@Paul-cg1bn]

Like yourselves, I've sold or got rid of everything. Started downsizing about 3 1/2 years ago, but got serious about it a couple of months ago. Now I'm in Malaysia for 3 months due to it's soft landing and will move onto Thailand next. Like the saying goes, you can't be a little pregnant. You either are or you're not. So just cut the cord and travel. I know, easier said than done for some. Your video has a lot of merit. Keep them coming!

[@BrianandCarrie]

Thank you, Paul. Once you get started with downsizing it becomes addictive. We don't miss anything. Have a great time in SE Asia and safe travels! Cheers!

[@robertmcfarlane4151]

More really good content and the steps to be taken when preparing for this lifestyle choice. Thanks for putting this together. Cheers

[@BrianandCarrie]

Thank you, Robert!

[@travelspot06]

I am actually at the end of my decluttering process now and I completely agree that doing it over time is so much better. Things always take a little longer than expected, and of course it is hard mentally to get rid of some things! I also agree that having a water filter bottle is essential; I carry a Katadyn BeFree 1L bottle everywhere, and it is good for hiking and squishes down so that it does not take up too much room. It is a little hard to drink out of though, like you mentioned that some of them were. Thanks for the tips!

[@BrianandCarrie]

Yes, always takes longer than anticipated and can be mentally draining. Always great to spread it out over time if you can. Like your collapsible water bottle idea as well. Thanks so much for watching 😊

[@margaretgiudice7698]

I really related to your comments about adjusting after travelling light. I retired and spent a year full time travelling, just prior to Covid. When I returned home (Australia) I was so surprised by initially how overwhelming it was to have so many clothing choices in my wardrobe (a first world problem). It made me appreciate my basic travel wardrobe. I am off again in September and relish travelling light again. Congratulations on your great content!

[@BrianandCarrie]

We have found life so much more relaxing without all the "stuff". It's nice to enjoy the moment! Thank you for watching and commenting! Cheers!!🍻

[@scottjohnson1964]

I cleaned out all my personal items. Left my adult daughter to live in condo and said get rid of what you don’t want. Worked out for both of us. If she decides to move I’ll sell condo.

[@BrianandCarrie]

Sounds like a perfect plan. Happy travels , 😊

[@muravi8167]

Agree with you 100% ! while preparing n travelling have a hard time making my wifey understand !! brian you sold off your golf set .....sad ! Thank you guys for the inputs and advices.

[@BrianandCarrie]

I wasn't golfing much anyway so it wasn't a big deal to me. 😄 Thank you for watching!! Cheers!

[@jerrygarcia4390]

When Brian said that about his ⛳️ clubs, I was shaken. Just thinking about losing my custom made set that I paid a ton of money for a few years back hurt 😬 😂 But I lugged mine around during a 2 week trip to Europe (Ireland, Prague, Barcelona) 7 years back. That was brutal! Never again

[@MikeS29]

Sage advice, guys. My big news is we are buiyng a house in Spain! It is furnished, so now we have to declutter our own stuff AND the stuff that comes with the house 😅 I've long since been OK with "less is more," but I still have things to move on from. I have more guitars than I actually play, (there are two I'll keep, the rest get sold). We aren't full time travelers, more like, "frequent travelers from a home-base." Later this year, our new home-base will be Torremolinos.

[@BrianandCarrie]

That's so wonderful, congrats! A bit of work ahead, but it will be totally worth it once you are settled. Cheers!!

[@Monas99]

i love these videos, they're so informative, thank you so mcuh for sharing! I"m a fan of your channel and I love you guys even more for caring about the environment by ditching the plastic bottles. 💙💙

[@BrianandCarrie]

There is so much unnecessary plastic used in SE Asia! We use our bottles everyday now. Thank you so much for the kind words. ❤

[@philip5899]

USB powered everything! Electric toothbrush/shaver etc. It uses the same charger for your phone. It saves the weight of a transformer/converter.

[@BrianandCarrie]

Great tip, thanks for sharing 😊

[@jameshickey9575]

Great video and info, despite Brian’s accordion fettish 😂. Thanks for all of the hard work you both do.

[@BrianandCarrie]

🤣

[@zeitgeist888]

Good video and good points all around. A lot of helpful info. I have recently gone all solids so no liquids through TSA. Toothpaste tabs, solid deodorant and soap that also works for shaving cream and a Buffpuf for scrub. Also all my electronics are now USB C so 2 cables covers everything from laptop, ear buds, noise canceling ear muffs. cell phone and flashlights etc.. Google fi for phone carrier so no need for sim cards as it works everywhere. Like Brian I also am not a fan of packing cubes. I do recommend Duluth Armachillo T shirts since they are anti microbial, thin and light and dry super quickly and last a long time. I have several that are over 4 years old from daily use.

[@BrianandCarrie]

Wish Google Fi would have worked for us... But soon as we arrived in Bangkok it would never connect. At that point and the extra cost we had to decide against it. So far eSim is proving to be the best and easiest option. Happy travels😊

[@tatiana.lifeinglow]

Love decluttering and packing tips videos 😅, thank you! I always thought nomadic life could be overwhelming because of packing yet if you have so little things it seems much easier! Would love to here more tips on the initial downsizing. Maybe you did not have a ton of things from the start? I took recently 2 big suitcases of things for a trip to Russia staying in my parents’ apartment. Through months realise I could have been just fine with 1/5th if those things. Kept wearing same 5-10 things and was fine. It is overwhelming to observe myself being frustrated with too many things. And I find letting go of clothes easier than crafts supplies (aka. unrealised hobbies/ dreams/ projects.

[@BrianandCarrie]

We had each downsized several times before deciding on this new lifestyle. It didn't take long and don't miss anything! 😊

[@janesmith506]

Very, very helpful. I think we are not candidates for slow travel because we probably can’t get through the downsizing phase. But your advice is great!

[@HH-fo9sg]

I embrace getting rid of the miscellaneous stuff in my large home. Going to sell the house. However, will likely store pricey furniture that would work in a smaller future home, and I don’t envision traveling for more than a year or two before deciding where to live next-U.S. or otherwise. I am slashing my wardrobe to fit a carry-on lifestyle, but I think I will miss having some cute clothes!

[@BrianandCarrie]

We still talk about the moment that we finished our final downsize. It was so invigorating! You will not regret getting rid stuff that you dont truly need.

[@jimd2343]

I counted 40 long and short sleeve shirts. 15 pairs of dress pants etc. Since I retired I wear jeans and tee shirts everyday

[@BrianandCarrie]

Yes, less is more. So much sat in our closets unused. Feels great to purge and get down to necessities. Cheers!!

[@PeggyWithAPassport]

3/9/24. We both are getting very informative travel tips from both of you ! Thank you, keep more coming our way. We currently live in Palm Springs, Ca but we feel that in the first few weeks of Nov this year that we may decide to move to another country. Also, there were four items for travel you showed us today, will be shopping for those very soon . Stay safe ❤️

[@BrianandCarrie]

So happy you're finding our content helpful, we will be sure to keep more coming! Thanks so much for watching 😊. Cheers !

[@anniesshenanigans3815]

I had a 3/2 house and sold and moved 585 miles away to a 2/2. Next I will be downsizing yet again to a 1/1 stationary RV. So I understand and embrace lots of empty drawers and cabinets. My biggest problem is the things I want to keep and not take with me if I decide to do the slow travel. Knowing that I have 'stuff' left behind such as files, documents, jewelry, coins, framed art, firearms...not sure how I would feel about that. I am still on the fence about it. The 'what ifs' are killing my plans and my serenity!!! I will probably take a few short trips before making those decisions.

[@BrianandCarrie]

Good idea! Test the waters a bit before jumping in!! Thank you for watching!

[@TexasDoug393]

Great tips, thanks! Gotta get me the water bottle with the UV cap.

[@BrianandCarrie]

You're welcome! We love our water bottles, not only a money saver but the amount of plastic we will save is what makes us really happy 😊

[@viagenseoutrascoisas2235]

Good information. Thanks for sharing ❤

[@BrianandCarrie]

You are so welcome, thanks so much for watching 😊

[@viagenseoutrascoisas2235]

@@BrianandCarrie ❤️

[@lyndalozner6706]

Sure hope you haven't gotten rid of your pineapple shirt, Brian. I love that shirt.

[@chrishutchens5167]

Hey, I want to put out what thing would be good to have is one of the travel vest that has the multiple pockets that you could wear and you could put stuff in as well

[@BrianandCarrie]

That a great idea, Chris! Thank you!! 😃

[@chrishutchens5167]

@@BrianandCarrie your welcome being a nomad traveler like you guys are doing that’s been my dream since I was well since I was 23 back in the 90s I’m 50 now so it’s definitely something I am seriously trying to figure way to make that happen myself

[@artbrutnewyork]

Nice travel adapter. Have you tried the square/boxy ones that have slide out prongs? They claim to be usable worldwide, but aren’t. I think the Celtics system makes more sense.

[@BrianandCarrie]

The Celtics one we use and recommend is a slide out style as well and has worked perfectly everywhere we've traveled. I think I know the ones you're talking about, all the reviews I read said they had issues.

[@CarrieJamrogowicz]

I have the EPICKA boxy one, works great and comes in its own little case.

[@retiredandroaming]

So agree on the storage locker elimination! We have had storage lockers for 7 years - at $75/month, that is about $7k expenses for bits and pieces worth maybe $1k!!!!! RIDICULOUS!!!!

[@BrianandCarrie]

Uhg!! And $75 for a unit is cheap!! People spend twice that in some places.

[@JeremyGo-GoYears]

Funny, we plan to keep our home while we travel but we both got rid of our letterman jackets. I donated mine and my wife wondered who would want it but it makes me happy to think somewhere in the world someone who needed a jacket is wearing it with my last name on the back.

[@BrianandCarrie]

That is a hard one to part with - sounds like you made good descisions with yours. Brian will love the day, if it ever comes that he puts his on for some reason 😉. Cheers!!

[@azwileetoyote]

Call me crazy but I lugged my golf clubs with me throughout Argentina, Portugal and Spain. Yes it was a pain but I got to play some really cool courses in those countries and I play 1-2 times per week… single digit handicap so I cannot travel for 3 months at a time without playing.

[@BrianandCarrie]

You are crazy!! 😁

[@AndNowIWrite]

We sold everything and moved to Portugal. I'm a sentimental person so this was a difficult thing for me. I put everything that my children didn't want...( Surprise! No one wanted my ceramic cat collection!) Into a spare bedroom and I'd visit the room occasionally. So many things I'd forgotten I'd put in there! So did I really need them? All photos were copied to SD cards, my daughter has the hard copies. Left the states with 15 pieces of luggage. (Sailed over so luggage was no issue) We are attached to the memories, not "things" I live in a van full time now, traveling and living my simple life. I enjoy buying plants or things I need for comfort if I'm parking for a month or so and I have no qualms about giving these items to the friends I've made when we hit the road again.

[@BrianandCarrie]

Sounds like you've found a wonderful balance and what works for you. That's the beauty of full time travel.... There are no sweet rules, everyone finds what works for them. Cheers and continued safe travels.

[@nancymiller7984]

Wonderful info! Thanks. Can you share what packs you use?

[@BrianandCarrie]

Hi, We use this backpack, which has been wonderful and held up great: amzn.to/3Tt9RQX. The black bag I carry is by Beis, I really like it but have been told customer service is not good, so prefer not to recommend it. For our luggage, we use Away the Bigger Carry-On and highly recommend it. If you use this link you get $20 off ☺ referrals.awaytravel.com/away945738

[@nathanbeil9708]

Great content as usual! I’ve got a question I’m hoping you can address - I’ve seen where Turkey doesn’t allow a VPN but you’ve mentioned always using one. Did you use your VPN while in Turkey? And issues with it?

[@BrianandCarrie]

Hi! We have used a VPN with out issue while there. That might be more directed towards locals, I'm not sure. Without it, we wouldn't be able to access most of what we need to. Cheers!!

[@nathanbeil9708]

@@BrianandCarrie Thank you - glad to hear it! We’ve got a quick visit planned later this year but anticipate going back in the future.

[@brendataylor8388]

Another good one. Thanks! Quick question…have you ever needed your own clothes line? I’m thinking this could be handy🤷🏼‍♀️

[@BrianandCarrie]

We have not. Clothes lines are very common everywhere we have been. 😀

[@webwhisper2701]

funniest (in retrospect) experience when we traveled to Venice, Italy (+4 other countries) …laughing as writing … and anytime we talk of it … we pulled our 3! (full) bags🙄 through the maze of cobbled streets (thankfully we’re good map readers) … a 25 min. walk to the hotel we booked … it was still a great trip … yet, won’t take so much on next travel…

[@BrianandCarrie]

Oh goodness, nothing like cobblestone streets and luggage to make you realize less is more 🤣. Thanks so much for watching.

[@tlr1604]

Most of us like 2-4 clothing items that we go to daily. I will say though I love that I get to travel with you, but I love having a home, my bed and going and being home each night-just me. I don't like hussle bussel of moving and on the move all the time. Travel to me was super stressful. I would be afraid i would visit somewhere and want to call it home, but yet lots of work to move to another country, yet still keep US residency.

[@BrianandCarrie]

There is always something special about returning to your home. We simply couldn't afford to keep a home and travel. We have no regrets so far. 😀

[@JohnJoseph999]

I got rid of all my stuff when I moved to China in 2011. Then again when I moved to Thailand in 2018. Then when I bought a house in the US in 2022 I started accumulating some stuff again just to maintain the home even though I only plan to live there half the year 😮. PS: I left my golf clubs and pineapple shirt in Thailand 😂

[@JohnJoseph999]

I had a storage locker for a couple years when I moved to China because my company was paying for it. Finally I donated all the stuff to a women’s shelter. Best idea is to not buy the stuff in the first place.

[@steven_dekok]

We have clothes at the flat in Romania that stay here and we have clothes that stay in the US. I'm trying to get to a point where i only need a carry on to travel between continents. My wife on the other hand..😂 I have such a hard time finding clothes that fit me. As a 6-1, 250 pound gym rat, i wear 2x in the states and 5x in Europe lol. I'm really working hard to lessen my material possessions to prepare to move from a big house in California to a condo in Florida in a few years.

[@BrianandCarrie]

Having a place on the east coast would be great if moving back and forth between Europ and the US. Best of both worlds!! Well, done!

[@gaylepulley9941]

We are moving to Spain permanently and questioning the best options for banking. What do you find the best options are with money in the U.S. and then making payments in Spain? thank you for sharing all of your experiences.

[@BrianandCarrie]

We use our US banks and us our credit cards for most purchases. As long as we have our VPN on, we are good to go.

[@jerrygarcia4390]

Hilarious! This morning I am working on closet one 😂 I got a LONG way to go!!!!

[@BrianandCarrie]

HA! We know the feeling!! Just wait...when you get started it becomes addicting and you can't stop. By the end you will feel incredibly satisfied!! 😁

[@denise91221]

Love the vid, great job as usual. I would like to know if you have any safety tips for a female solo traveler. (of course I have done some research, but would like your thoughts) Have you ever encountered hidden cameras in any of your airbnbs? What do you do to keep your laptops safe in your room while you are out and about?

[@BrianandCarrie]

Hi!! We haven't had any concerns while traveling, and it often ask myself that thinking if I were traveling alone. As far as safety in Airbnb's, we've never encountered a camera and haven't had concerns for our possessions. Most have a locked entry door as well as your personal door. There is always a risk, but we've felt safe.

[@1965stockport]

Great video. We are starting our de clutter. You really do have to get used to people just not wanting your stuff!! Question about the water bottle. Can you just fill them up from the tap (in countries where you can't drink water from the tap??) and it makes it safe?

[@BrianandCarrie]

Yes, you can use the UV-C cap to make the water safe to drink. We also have the filtered straw that we can switch out and use if we are concerned enough to need more purification. We are loving it and have figured just our 4 months in Turkey and Greece and not buying bottled water and they will be paid for.

[@stevemitchell7839]

Very useful information. What do you think of soft sided luggage versus hard sided? I see in Costco the hard sided, and it seems popular. Advantages/disadvantages--

[@BrianandCarrie]

The advantage is security and durability with the hard sided. The soft sided is cost? We love our hard sided luggage and wouldn't come any other.

[@stevemitchell7839]

Will go with hard sided--Thanks!

[@RobinEagle1]

What is the brand of water bottle filter that you like?

[@BrianandCarrie]

This is the brand we use and love it. imp.i263265.net/g15ZX0

[@jonathancbc]

Do you consider a back-up laptop and a 2nd phone? If the Mac has a problem or is stolen a cheap, lightweight Chromebook, for example? If not, what is your fall back tech strategy?

[@BrianandCarrie]

We really just always figure we will have to deal with those issues when the time comes. We just can't plan ahead for everything and the weight to carry planning ahead would be to much.

[@savannahosborn2320]

Silly question, but about how many of the laundry sheets do you bring that you find is enough to last you until you go back home several months later? Or are you able to find more while traveling? Thanks so much, what a helpful video!

[@BrianandCarrie]

So happy you found it helpful 😊. We both carry a pack and find it's been plenty. If we need more detergent on the go, we just end up buying some. Cheers!

[@gregattanasio3185]

My wife and I love bar shampoo for travel and even for home. Have you tried the bars from Lush? They smell amazing (my wife’s words)…

[@BrianandCarrie]

I haven't tried those, I'll have to look into them 😊

[@margieczyz3982]

What suitcase do you use? I have an Eaglecreek. Love it but the quality of their new ones aren’t as good.

[@BrianandCarrie]

We use Away, the bigger carry on. We absolutely love them!!

[@lf1666]

All good ideas. I totally buy into not needing stuff! And I can easily see the benefits to what you did. I do not buy into the stuff mentality

[@ilovebeautychristine]

What street address do you use for tax, banks etc when you don't have a home address?

[@BrianandCarrie]

We use a family member, since that's where we stay when home visiting.

[@ilovebeautychristine]

Thank you, what sesure internet do you use while travelling? Have you used esim?

[@BrianandCarrie]

Here is a link to a video that we did two weeks ago that will explain our phone and mail. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rF6TZJSBl9Odja8

[@El-Wifer]

This may be a stupid question, but how do you use a VPN with the fire stick?

[@BrianandCarrie]

Not stupid at all, we all have to figure it out once ☺. You will simply download the app for your VPN on your Firestick, then just set it up like you would on your computer or phone. Here is the VPN we like: www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=cl&merchant_id=d4bfb5df-f0c4-499b-bbb0-4734c69aa265&website_id=07ce4335-e112-4c0a-932c-33a2e51dc93e&url=https%3A%2F%2Fnordvpn.com

[@jerrygarcia4390]

With a VPN, will Pandora work outside the USA?

[@BrianandCarrie]

YES!! I set mine for Seattle and use Pandora every day. If I turn off my VPN, no Pandora. 😁

[@barbraarchibeque]

Do you recommend an international mover? Going to school in Costa Rica soon, need to move some stuff for a few years.😅

[@BrianandCarrie]

Sorry, but we aren't familiar with any as we've never needed to move things internationally. Best of luck in your search though ☺

[@BrianandCarrie]

"Traveling with Kristin" would be able to help you with that, I'm sure.

[@nncadi1]

Which fire stick do you use?

[@BrianandCarrie]

The one we have linked here is the one we use. It has the extension which we've found necessary in most Airbnbs. www.brianandcarrietravels.com/shop

[@nncadi1]

@@BrianandCarrie thank you!

[@nncadi1]

@@BrianandCarrie bought it…thanks again

[@ParisianThinker]

Will you live somewhere if you become older?

[@BrianandCarrie]

We hope so! 😁 We will return to the US someday...

[@livingworkingoutsidebox]

It's two thirsty hoodie and a fancy pineapple 🍍 shirt a pair of pants and shorts. Maybe a Huskies t-shirt 😉 UCONN grad here.😊 Have you ever had the urge while in SEA for a bit of wardrobe refreshing? Is it really that inexpensive there? Could you find quality and inexpensive pricing that meet the good for a year test? Nice idea 💡 with the filtered water 💧 bottles 🧠👍

[@BrianandCarrie]

Seattle and the area that we are from are expensive. One reason that we decided to leave. We do like to refresh our wardrobe however. The Huskie t-shirt is a great idea! Although, the purple and gold color!! 😁

[@livingworkingoutsidebox]

@@BrianandCarrie They should have a blue and white for the basket ball team. Blue shirt with white husky and lettering 👍💪

[@buckleyjs]

Your “MAIL Service while Traveling” link doesn’t go any where. You might want to double check that out.

[@BrianandCarrie]

Thank you, Jeff! Working on it now!

[@kimcombers5863]

Do you pack a portable carbon monoxide detector?

[@BrianandCarrie]

No, we don't. It's a good idea though.

[@kennonhaneline9313]

Our middle of the night call was for a wild fire. NEVER AGAIN. We are selling it all.

[@BrianandCarrie]

Yikes! That's very scary, don't blame you. Thanks for watching 😊

[@carolynknisely2383]

When your home, where do you stay?

[@BrianandCarrie]

We typically house sit combined with staying with family a bit. Here is the site we used if you want to check it out: trustedhousesitters.pxf.io/c/3563316/1555723/18144

[@carolynknisely2383]

@@BrianandCarrie thank you!!

[@ryanccc777]

You responded too fast for me below, lol, I added the part about the Epicka power adapter in case that might work for you😂

[@BrianandCarrie]

We'll check that out. Thanks 😊

[@ryanccc777]

@@BrianandCarrie from what I can see, everything is baked into the adapter so it might help you avoid switching out components. Happy travels!

[@travelingexpats]

Great advice but it’s such a huge step that we keep postponing.

[@BrianandCarrie]

It really is a huge step and decision. But, sure does feel great when you've made it ☺️

[@grahamyoutsey7690]

If it doesn't fit in your pack, or your souls. You don't need it.

[@anne4369]

Not me looking around the too-big house for just the two of us that contains decades of accumulated cr*p, going 😳. Hubby and have about 4 years to work on this before we retire. (insert crazy laugh sound) 🤪

[@BrianandCarrie]

It's so much to tackle...at least you have plenty of time to do it. It will so great when it's all done 😊. Cheers!!

[@allenfoster1591]

Have you been or plan on going to African nations?

[@BrianandCarrie]

We do, Allen, but we want to do it right when we go, including a safari. We are saving our coins until we can afford it! 😀

[@CarrieJamrogowicz]

TIL that Pandora still exists 😂 Spotify works outside the country.

[@BrianandCarrie]

Yes, that it does and it's a great backup option 😊

[@Energy950]

Digitize documents, photos, CDs, DVDs, then get rid of them.

[@BrianandCarrie]

Great idea!!

[@elizabethbarrett5303]

Brian, “boughten” is not a word.

[@BrianandCarrie]

Thank you for pointing this valuable information out, Elizabeth. Comments like this really add to the channel. Thank you so much!!! 🙄 Cheers!!🍻

[@ParisianThinker]

I sincerely hope the future continues the way you experienced it the last few years. I am American living 18 years in France. I can go anywhere at anytime. However, the WHO grabbed the power to dictate vaccine injections on the bodies of people in 192 countries. That includes you and me. The vaccine document will become attached to our foredooming Digital ID. The Western world is also talking about eliminating VPN's and total surveillance of us 24/7/365. I wonder how this will affect being a traveler as visas can and will change.