You can find hardsiders (think Samsonite) DIRT CHEAP at the SAAAAAH! (Salvation Army) and a three piece for $100 w free shipping from Amazon basics beating any store.
Size is CRITICAL for those looking to save moolah like Changa. Chat GPT was quitell helpful here. Remember that Spirit charges for checked bags but SW allows 2 per customer so to really benefit from those $50 Spirit tickets right now you need to plan to pack using 1) "personal item" bag and 2) Carry on bag (no checked bags as that usually adds $100 per passenger per flight leg)
Here's CHAT GPT:
Changa:
I want to buy three suitcases or luggage that are optimal size to satisfy both Southwest Airlines and Spirit Airlines limits for sizes for 1) personal item 2) carry on 3) check in luggage without running afoul of their rules and minimizing the amount I have to pay for luggage
ChatGPT
To maximize your luggage options while minimizing costs and staying within the size limits of both Southwest Airlines and Spirit Airlines, here are some recommendations for each category:
Personal Item:
Size Limit: Typically around 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm) for both airlines.
Recommendation: Look for a small backpack or messenger bag that fits these dimensions. Ensure it has enough room for essentials like electronics, books, and snacks. Consider a compact yet sturdy option that can also fit under the seat in front of you.
Carry-On Luggage:
Size Limit: Typically around 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm) for both airlines.
Recommendation: Opt for a lightweight and durable carry-on suitcase that meets these dimensions. Look for features like spinner wheels for easy maneuverability and multiple compartments for organized packing. Ensure it's compliant with the size restrictions to avoid additional fees.
Recommendation: Choose a medium-sized suitcase that meets the combined linear inches limit of both airlines. Aim for a durable hard-shell suitcase with expandable capacity in case you need extra space for souvenirs or belongings on your return trip. Ensure it's within the weight limits to avoid overweight baggage fees.
Here are a few specific examples:
Personal Item:
Recommendation: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag
Dimensions: 11 x 10 x 4.5 inches
Features: RFID-blocking pockets, slash-resistant body, and adjustable shoulder strap.
Before purchasing, always double-check the current size restrictions and baggage policies on the official websites of Southwest Airlines and Spirit Airlines, as regulations may change over time. Additionally, consider joining loyalty programs or purchasing premium tickets that include baggage allowances to further reduce costs.
HOT TRAVEL TIP: WHEN YOU BOOK A DISCOUNT FLIGHT ON A SOUTHWEST REWARDS CARD and pay the card before due date, YOU WIN and the company "loses".
RIGHT NOW YOU CAN GET 50,000 POINTS (WORTH $750) FOR THE BASIC SOUTHWEST CARD BY RUNNING JUST $1000 (NOT THE USUAL 3K) OF BILLS YOU'RE GOING TO PAY ANYWAYS THROUGH THIS CARD IN THE NEXT 3 MONTHS. It's a NO-BRAINER
By the way, Southwest wins because 2 luggage items are always free. Do even better by starting a free account at southwest.com and pull up their "LOWEST FARES" CALENDAR. Then book your flight USING POINTS, not price and you'll see even bigger discounts for certain days (most assume the low dollar cost days match the low point cost days.... they often do, but if you look you can do BETTER with points on many days. ITS FUN!!!
Use this link for this deal and to learn more:
You’ve been referred to this exclusive offer! WIth the link below, you can choose any Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card. Earn 50,000 bonus points with any Southwest Rapid Rewards personal Credit Card. Business owners can earn 60,000 points with the Premier Business Credit Card or earn 80,000 points with the Performance Business Credit Card.
BTW, CHEAPFLIGHTS.COM SHOWS DIRECT, ROUND TRIP FLIGHTS FROM DETROIT (DTW) TO MIAMI INT'l (MIA) for $227 TOTAL, on both JetBlue and American Airlines (unusual). I believe baggage may be extra, but still that's way cheaper than driving.
If you know a Detroiter who needs some sun, let em know!
You can only pick four discount providers to compare at a time. I recommend selecting cheapflightsfares, cheapoair, asap tickets and Bestairfares in your first round, but they are all good. Mess around with it. If you find a steal, don't wait to long to grab it. Read any fine print. Some have 24 hr free cancellations or more, so you can grab and then reconsider. ENJOY
MONEY TIP: Do yourself a favor and renew your passport if you're within 6 months of expiration (many places won't let you in if close to expiry). You'll save $100 or more and a lot of worry as you'll be able to use the regular version without paying extra expidited fees last minute.
ALSO: Next time you renew your license, get the the ENHANCED Version (US states). By this time next year, it will be MANDATORY for all DOMESTIC flights. (yeah, before you comment #livefreeordieprepper I get it but... I say... pick your battles.. :)
Renew/check status, or get passport here for you or your kids (aprox $220 including pic if you fill out forms yourself (link below) and make appointment with a passport approved post office with photo hours (15 mins including pic... see online booking at end of e-form)
HOT TIP! USE AI to find your next hotel like Changa does!
Algorithms save more than humans
(note: $50 + refund guarantee is phenomenal BUT just so you know, only applies if proof of cheaper submitted within 24 hrs. So far I've never had to....)
There are so many hotel savings available if you’d just let the algorithms find them for you.
Algotels is the world’s first algo-driven hotel booking platform that uses technology and constantly optimized algorithms to take advantage of all available data, parameters, and solutions to put together a hotel reservation that will save you a ton of…money, time, and frustration.
RE DR. NAOMI WOLF INVASIVE, ABUSIVE MOLESTATION/BREAST SEARCH AT AIRPORT BY TSA TINPOTS:
"You have rights, I am in the aviation industry and refuse the biometrics scan every time as well. Last time I was disrespected for doing so I filed an official complaint against that person.
I also Cary a copy of all CBP and TSA rules of conduct. They have learned not to screw with me."
Great words of advice. CBP or TSA have never been an issue for me. The worst was taking boots off and putting them back on. CBP always cut us a lot of slack flying back into the US on Military flights. I got spoiled.
I like to identify as an emotional support pet for my wife. That way I fly free, but with a small risk of being thrown into the plane belly with the other animals. Worth it.
US Commercial Aviation (100+ passenger seats) has gone TEN YEARS without a Crash Fatality for TENS OF MILLIONS OF FLIGHTS. You are at more risk driving anything over 10 miles, statistically, even with the pilot vax issue (make sure you choose flights WITH a copilot only)
Why You Should Always Go Incognito When Booking Tickets
Before you book your plane ticket, here is the best way to ensure you get the best price. Whenever you visit airline or flight booking websites, they track your cookies and how many times you search for a particular flight on their site. Therefore they can hike up the flight price because they know it is of high interest to you. The only way to combat this is to browse in private or incognito mode.
Buying Luggage?
You can find hardsiders (think Samsonite) DIRT CHEAP at the SAAAAAH! (Salvation Army) and a three piece for $100 w free shipping from Amazon basics beating any store.
Size is CRITICAL for those looking to save moolah like Changa. Chat GPT was quitell helpful here. Remember that Spirit charges for checked bags but SW allows 2 per customer so to really benefit from those $50 Spirit tickets right now you need to plan to pack using 1) "personal item" bag and 2) Carry on bag (no checked bags as that usually adds $100 per passenger per flight leg)
Here's CHAT GPT:
Changa:
I want to buy three suitcases or luggage that are optimal size to satisfy both Southwest Airlines and Spirit Airlines limits for sizes for 1) personal item 2) carry on 3) check in luggage without running afoul of their rules and minimizing the amount I have to pay for luggage
ChatGPT
To maximize your luggage options while minimizing costs and staying within the size limits of both Southwest Airlines and Spirit Airlines, here are some recommendations for each category:
Personal Item:
Size Limit: Typically around 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm) for both airlines.
Recommendation: Look for a small backpack or messenger bag that fits these dimensions. Ensure it has enough room for essentials like electronics, books, and snacks. Consider a compact yet sturdy option that can also fit under the seat in front of you.
Carry-On Luggage:
Size Limit: Typically around 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm) for both airlines.
Recommendation: Opt for a lightweight and durable carry-on suitcase that meets these dimensions. Look for features like spinner wheels for easy maneuverability and multiple compartments for organized packing. Ensure it's compliant with the size restrictions to avoid additional fees.
Checked Luggage:
Size Limit: Southwest Airlines: 62 inches (length + width + height), Spirit Airlines: 62 linear inches (length + width + height).
Recommendation: Choose a medium-sized suitcase that meets the combined linear inches limit of both airlines. Aim for a durable hard-shell suitcase with expandable capacity in case you need extra space for souvenirs or belongings on your return trip. Ensure it's within the weight limits to avoid overweight baggage fees.
Here are a few specific examples:
Personal Item:
Recommendation: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag
Dimensions: 11 x 10 x 4.5 inches
Features: RFID-blocking pockets, slash-resistant body, and adjustable shoulder strap.
Carry-On Luggage:
Recommendation: Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Spinner
Dimensions: 21.25 x 15.25 x 10 inches
Features: Lightweight, scratch-resistant, TSA-approved combination lock, and multi-directional spinner wheels.
Checked Luggage:
Recommendation: AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner Luggage
Dimensions: 26.7 x 17.9 x 11.8 inches (expanded)
Features: Scratch-resistant exterior, fully lined interior, telescoping handle, and 4 double spinner wheels.
Before purchasing, always double-check the current size restrictions and baggage policies on the official websites of Southwest Airlines and Spirit Airlines, as regulations may change over time. Additionally, consider joining loyalty programs or purchasing premium tickets that include baggage allowances to further reduce costs.
A budget suitcase set solution (look for used on prime for even better deal) including expandable via zippers
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CBT5IR8/ref=ox_sc_act_image_2?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&th=1
And here's a higher end one with great review for a few bucks more, and HARDSHELL
with true spinner (360) wheels https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B8S1LSH8/ref=sspa_dk_detail_0?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B0B8S1LSH8&pd_rd_w=DmFMu&content-id=amzn1.sym.0d1092dc-81bb-493f-8769-d5c802257e94&pf_rd_p=0d1092dc-81bb-493f-8769-d5c802257e94&pf_rd_r=R12FMW8DG7XRZRFCMD8N&pd_rd_wg=79YK0&pd_rd_r=9fbd9fb9-ee0f-41be-97ca-7a8dee7300ac&s=generic&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWwy
BONUS: WHAT ARE TSA TRAVEL LOCKS AND SHOULD YOU BUY A SUITCASE WITH THEM?
https://www.uponarriving.com/tsa-approved-locks/#:~:text=TSA%20approved%20locks%20are%20special%20locks%20designed%20by,allowing%20TSA%20agents%20to%20inspect%20bags%20when%20necessary.
HOT TRAVEL TIP: WHEN YOU BOOK A DISCOUNT FLIGHT ON A SOUTHWEST REWARDS CARD and pay the card before due date, YOU WIN and the company "loses".
RIGHT NOW YOU CAN GET 50,000 POINTS (WORTH $750) FOR THE BASIC SOUTHWEST CARD BY RUNNING JUST $1000 (NOT THE USUAL 3K) OF BILLS YOU'RE GOING TO PAY ANYWAYS THROUGH THIS CARD IN THE NEXT 3 MONTHS. It's a NO-BRAINER
By the way, Southwest wins because 2 luggage items are always free. Do even better by starting a free account at southwest.com and pull up their "LOWEST FARES" CALENDAR. Then book your flight USING POINTS, not price and you'll see even bigger discounts for certain days (most assume the low dollar cost days match the low point cost days.... they often do, but if you look you can do BETTER with points on many days. ITS FUN!!!
Use this link for this deal and to learn more:
You’ve been referred to this exclusive offer! WIth the link below, you can choose any Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card. Earn 50,000 bonus points with any Southwest Rapid Rewards personal Credit Card. Business owners can earn 60,000 points with the Premier Business Credit Card or earn 80,000 points with the Performance Business Credit Card.
https://www.referyourchasecard.com/226d/I50I4T8BGS
BTW, CHEAPFLIGHTS.COM SHOWS DIRECT, ROUND TRIP FLIGHTS FROM DETROIT (DTW) TO MIAMI INT'l (MIA) for $227 TOTAL, on both JetBlue and American Airlines (unusual). I believe baggage may be extra, but still that's way cheaper than driving.
If you know a Detroiter who needs some sun, let em know!
Enjoy!
You can only pick four discount providers to compare at a time. I recommend selecting cheapflightsfares, cheapoair, asap tickets and Bestairfares in your first round, but they are all good. Mess around with it. If you find a steal, don't wait to long to grab it. Read any fine print. Some have 24 hr free cancellations or more, so you can grab and then reconsider. ENJOY
MONEY TIP: Do yourself a favor and renew your passport if you're within 6 months of expiration (many places won't let you in if close to expiry). You'll save $100 or more and a lot of worry as you'll be able to use the regular version without paying extra expidited fees last minute.
ALSO: Next time you renew your license, get the the ENHANCED Version (US states). By this time next year, it will be MANDATORY for all DOMESTIC flights. (yeah, before you comment #livefreeordieprepper I get it but... I say... pick your battles.. :)
Renew/check status, or get passport here for you or your kids (aprox $220 including pic if you fill out forms yourself (link below) and make appointment with a passport approved post office with photo hours (15 mins including pic... see online booking at end of e-form)
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport.html
HOT TIP! USE AI to find your next hotel like Changa does!
Algorithms save more than humans
(note: $50 + refund guarantee is phenomenal BUT just so you know, only applies if proof of cheaper submitted within 24 hrs. So far I've never had to....)
There are so many hotel savings available if you’d just let the algorithms find them for you.
https://www.algotels.com/about-us
Algotels is the world’s first algo-driven hotel booking platform that uses technology and constantly optimized algorithms to take advantage of all available data, parameters, and solutions to put together a hotel reservation that will save you a ton of…money, time, and frustration.
RE DR. NAOMI WOLF INVASIVE, ABUSIVE MOLESTATION/BREAST SEARCH AT AIRPORT BY TSA TINPOTS:
"You have rights, I am in the aviation industry and refuse the biometrics scan every time as well. Last time I was disrespected for doing so I filed an official complaint against that person.
I also Cary a copy of all CBP and TSA rules of conduct. They have learned not to screw with me."
https://x.com/naomirwolf/status/1751679627569816056?s=20
Great words of advice. CBP or TSA have never been an issue for me. The worst was taking boots off and putting them back on. CBP always cut us a lot of slack flying back into the US on Military flights. I got spoiled.
Psssst! Unadvertised "Ghost" Specia!!
Enter any number above 51 under FOUNDING MEMBER when signing up to support our writing and non profit charity work, and you'll save 50%!!!
(Comes with 7 day trial)
THANK YOU! 😊 🙏
Hey look. That door identified as a wing. And it couldn't wing where it was so it flipped out.
I like to identify as an emotional support pet for my wife. That way I fly free, but with a small risk of being thrown into the plane belly with the other animals. Worth it.
All Imma say is, doors gotta fly free.
Killer deals offered by officialdom, better odds than a poke in the arm.
Offered by algo. More fun than a poke, they say.
Can we inspect the ✈️ 😆 https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12982275/Terrifying-moment-flames-shoot-Atlas-Air-Boeing-747-jet-suffering-engine-failure-shortly-Miami-International-Airport.html
US Commercial Aviation (100+ passenger seats) has gone TEN YEARS without a Crash Fatality for TENS OF MILLIONS OF FLIGHTS. You are at more risk driving anything over 10 miles, statistically, even with the pilot vax issue (make sure you choose flights WITH a copilot only)
Don't forget skyscanner.com as well as this stack for flights from Midwest airports. Some of the steals have been unbelievable.
https://substack.com/@greatlakestraveldeals
Finally, for advanced cheapos, Secret Flying capitalizes on temporary mispricings you can be alerted to an lock in for realz.
https://www.secretflying.com/posts/5-mec-paestum-hotel-in-paestum-italy-for-only-60-usd-per-night/
Killer Free Flight Apps! (If you haven't discovered free ATC you're missing out)
Enjoy. https://youtu.be/py5lbDMxhYs?si=Bf6O97l6A1SZs5kX
Next time you get bumped from a flight, try this
#badass
https://www.facebook.com/share/r/YTGGcXoDfDF3FXiw/?mibextid=4UDYQr
EVER HEARD OF "ERROR FARES". They exist.
Here's two sites to search for last minute, short offer, INSANELY PRICED flight deals:
Enjoy, and check ALL details. YOLO
https://www.secretflying.com/
https://www.skyscanner.com/
Why You Should Always Go Incognito When Booking Tickets
Before you book your plane ticket, here is the best way to ensure you get the best price. Whenever you visit airline or flight booking websites, they track your cookies and how many times you search for a particular flight on their site. Therefore they can hike up the flight price because they know it is of high interest to you. The only way to combat this is to browse in private or incognito mode.
Great site for flight tracking a friend's flight. Unbelievable amount of live info.
www.flightaware.com