Travel Hacking Cartel Review | A Travelers Life

travel hacking

Travel Hacking Cartel (THC) is a popular membership program that claims to teach members how to travel the world for free or at a fraction of the cost using credit card points, airline miles, and other travel hacking techniques. But is it worth joining? In this review, we’ll break down how THC works, its pros and cons, and whether it’s the right choice for you.

What is Travel Hacking Cartel?
Founded by Matt Kepnes (aka Nomadic Matt), a well-known travel expert, THC is a subscription-based service that provides members with:

Weekly deals on credit card bonuses and travel rewards

Step-by-step guides on earning and redeeming points

Exclusive tips on maximizing airline and hotel loyalty programs

Community support through forums and expert advice

The program costs $15/month, with discounts for annual subscriptions.

How Does Travel Hacking Cartel Work?
THC focuses on leveraging credit card sign-up bonuses, manufactured spending (when applicable), and strategic point redemptions to help members book free flights, hotel stays, and upgrades.

Key Features:
✔ Weekly Deal Alerts – Get notifications on the best credit card offers.
✔ Beginner-Friendly Guides – Learn how to start travel hacking without prior experience.
✔ Advanced Strategies – For those looking to optimize their rewards further.
✔ Community & Support – Access to a private group for Q&A and tips.

Pros of Travel Hacking Cartel
✅ Saves Time – Instead of scouring the internet for deals, THC curates the best offers.
✅ Beginner-Friendly – Great for those new to points and miles.
✅ Affordable Membership – At $15/month, it’s cheaper than some competitors.
✅ Backed by a Reputable Expert – Nomadic Matt is a trusted figure in the travel space.

Cons of Travel Hacking Cartel
❌ US-Centric – Most deals focus on U.S. credit cards and airlines.
❌ Requires Good Credit – To maximize benefits, you need a solid credit score.
❌ Not for Heavy Travel Hackers – Advanced users may already know most tips.

Is Travel Hacking Cartel Worth It?
If you’re new to travel hacking and want a structured way to learn, THC can be a great resource. However, if you’re already experienced in maximizing credit card rewards, you might find the information redundant.

Who Should Join?
Beginners looking to start earning travel rewards

Frequent travelers who want to cut costs

People with good credit willing to apply for new cards

Who Should Skip It?
Non-U.S. residents (limited international value)

Advanced travel hackers who already follow deal sites

Those unwilling to open new credit cards

Final Verdict: 7.5/10
Travel Hacking Cartel is a solid resource for beginners, but its value depends on your commitment to applying the strategies. If you’re serious about traveling for less, it’s worth a try—just make sure to cancel if it’s not delivering enough value for you.

Have you tried THC? Share your experience in the comments!

Looking For Printable Travel Games For Your Young Ones

Looking for Printable Travel Games for Your Young Ones? Here Are the Best Options!
Traveling with kids can be challenging, especially on long road trips or flights. Keeping them entertained is key to a stress-free journey, and printable travel games are a fantastic solution! They’re easy to pack, reusable, and fun for kids of all ages.

In this guide, we’ll share some of the best free and paid printable travel games to keep your little ones engaged while on the go.

Why Use Printable Travel Games?
✅ No screens required – Reduces screen time while keeping kids busy.
✅ Lightweight & portable – Just print and bring along!
✅ Affordable & reusable – Laminate them for multiple uses.
✅ Educational & fun – Many games boost creativity and problem-solving.

Best Free Printable Travel Games for Kids
1. Travel Bingo
A classic game where kids spot items (like road signs, animals, or vehicles) and mark them off.
🔗 Download free templates from: MomDot or Hey, Let’s Make Stuff

2. License Plate Game
Kids check off U.S. states or countries from passing license plates.
🔗 Free printable at: Over the Big Moon

3. Tic-Tac-Toe & Dots and Boxes
Simple pen-and-paper games that never get old.
🔗 Download from: The Spruce Crafts

4. Road Trip Scavenger Hunt
Kids search for items like “a red car,” “a billboard,” or “a cow.”
🔗 Free printables at: Made with Happy

5. Travel-Themed Word Searches & Mazes
Great for older kids who enjoy puzzles.
🔗 Find free options at: Crayons & Cravings

Paid Printable Travel Games (Worth the Investment!)
1. Travel Activity Packs (Etsy)
🔹 Busy Binders – Interactive games like matching, counting, and tracing.
🔹 “Would You Rather” Travel Edition – Fun conversation starters.
💰 Price: $3–$10 per pack
🔗 Check out: Etsy Travel Games

2. Ultimate Travel Game Bundle (Teachers Pay Teachers)
Includes crossword puzzles, coloring pages, and storytelling prompts.
💰 Price: $5–$15
🔗 Find here: Teachers Pay Teachers

3. Personalized Travel Journals
Let kids document their trip with prompts and stickers.
💰 Price: $8–$20
🔗 Try: Amazon Printable Packs

Tips for Using Printable Travel Games
✔ Laminate or use sheet protectors + dry-erase markers for reuse.
✔ Bring a clipboard for easy play in the car or plane.
✔ Mix & match games to prevent boredom.
✔ Offer small rewards (like snacks) for completed games.

Final Thoughts
Printable travel games are a must-have for family trips! Whether you choose free downloads or invest in a premium pack, these activities will keep kids entertained for hours.

Do you have a favorite travel game? Share it in the comments.

The legend or story about tampaksiring in bali

The legend or story about tampaksiring in bali

Tampaksiring, a small town in Gianyar Regency, Bali, is famous for its holy springs, ancient temples, and rich mythology. One of the most fascinating aspects of this area is its legendary origin story, deeply rooted in Balinese folklore and Hindu beliefs.

The name “Tampaksiring” comes from two Balinese words: “tampak” (footprint) and “siring” (slanted). According to legend, this name originates from the footprints of a mighty king that once marked the land.

The Legend of King Mayadenawa: The Arrogant Ruler
The most famous legend of Tampaksiring revolves around King Mayadenawa, a powerful but arrogant ruler who declared himself a god and forbade his people from worshiping the true deities.

The Battle Between Gods and a Tyrant
Angered by Mayadenawa’s blasphemy, the god Indra led an army from heaven to punish him. Mayadenawa, who possessed magical powers, fled and used his sorcery to confuse the gods:

He turned his footsteps upside down to mislead his pursuers (hence the name Tampaksiring – “slanted footprints”).

He created poisonous springs to kill Indra’s soldiers.

However, Indra, with his divine wisdom, struck the ground with his staff, causing a holy spring (Tirta Empul) to gush forth. The sacred water neutralized the poison and healed his army.

The Defeat of Mayadenawa
After a long chase, Mayadenawa was finally cornered near Campuhan River. Before his defeat, he used his last magic trick:

He turned his own blood into a red thorny plant (now known as “Bunga Mayana”).

His body transformed into a stone, which can still be seen near Pura Mengening.

Indra declared that the holy spring of Tirta Empul would forever be a place of purification, where people could cleanse themselves of sins.

Tampaksiring Today: A Sacred Pilgrimage Site
To this day, Tampaksiring remains a spiritually significant place in Bali. Key sites linked to the legend include:

Tirta Empul Temple – Pilgrims bathe in its sacred waters for purification.

Gunung Kawi Temple – An ancient rock-cut temple believed to be connected to the legend.

The Stone of Mayadenawa – A rock formation said to be the remains of the fallen king.

Conclusion
The legend of Tampaksiring is more than just a myth—it reflects Balinese values of humility, devotion, and the triumph of good over evil. Visitors to Tampaksiring can still feel the mystical energy of this land, where history and spirituality intertwine.

Have you ever visited Tampaksiring? Share your experience in the comments! 🙏✨

Travel Yoga Mat Review

Image: A lightweight travel yoga mat perfect for on-the-go practice.

For yogis who love to practice anywhere—whether at home, in a park, or while traveling—a high-quality travel yoga mat is a must-have. Unlike standard mats, travel yoga mats are designed to be lightweight, compact, and durable, making them easy to carry in a backpack or suitcase. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best one?

In this review, we’ll explore the top travel yoga mats, their features, pros and cons, and which one might be the best fit for your needs.

Top 5 Travel Yoga Mats in 2024
1. Manduka eKO SuperLite Travel Mat
✅ Weight: 2 lbs (0.9 kg)
✅ Thickness: 1.5 mm
✅ Material: Natural tree rubber (eco-friendly)

Pros:
✔ Ultra-lightweight and foldable
✔ Excellent grip, even when sweaty
✔ Eco-friendly and biodegradable

Cons:
✖ Thin, so may need extra cushioning for hard surfaces

Best for: Eco-conscious yogis who want a sustainable, non-slip mat.

2. Liforme Travel Yoga Mat
✅ Weight: 2.2 lbs (1 kg)
✅ Thickness: 2.5 mm
✅ Material: Natural rubber with biodegradable coating

Pros:
✔ Lightweight but slightly thicker for comfort
✔ AlignMark guides for perfect poses
✔ Great grip and sweat-resistant

Cons:
✖ More expensive than other travel mats

Best for: Yogis who want alignment guides and extra cushioning.

3. JadeYoga Voyager Mat
✅ Weight: 2 lbs (0.9 kg)
✅ Thickness: 2 mm
✅ Material: Natural rubber

Pros:
✔ Super lightweight and packable
✔ Excellent traction
✔ Supports sustainable rubber harvesting

Cons:
✖ Slightly thinner than standard mats

Best for: Travelers who prioritize grip and sustainability.

4. Gaiam Foldable Yoga Mat
✅ Weight: 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg)
✅ Thickness: 3 mm
✅ Material: PVC-free synthetic rubber

Pros:
✔ Affordable and durable
✔ Folds into a compact square
✔ Good cushioning for joints

Cons:
✖ Not as eco-friendly as natural rubber mats

Best for: Budget-conscious yogis who want a foldable option.

5. Yogo Ultralight Travel Mat
✅ Weight: 1.5 lbs (0.7 kg)
✅ Thickness: 1 mm
✅ Material: Microfiber & silicone

Pros:
✔ The lightest mat on this list
✔ Super compact (fits in a small bag)
✔ Moisture-wicking for hot yoga

Cons:
✖ Very thin—best for minimalist yogis

Best for: Backpackers and those who need the lightest possible mat.

Final Verdict: Which Travel Yoga Mat Should You Choose?
Best Eco-Friendly Mat: Manduka eKO SuperLite

Best for Alignment Guides: Liforme Travel Mat

Best for Grip & Portability: JadeYoga Voyager

Best Budget Option: Gaiam Foldable Mat

Best for Ultra-Light Travel: Yogo Ultralight Mat

Conclusion
A good travel yoga mat should be lightweight, durable, and provide enough grip for a stable practice. Whether you prioritize eco-friendliness, cushioning, or ultra-portability, there’s a perfect mat for your needs.

Which travel yoga mat will you choose for your next adventure? 🧘‍♀️✈️