Ready to stop stressing about what to bring and start packing like a pro? Discover how less really is more.

In this week’s Travel Talk episode, host Kim Anderson shares her favorite carry-on-only strategy—the 5-4-3-2-1 capsule packing method—and why it’s been a total game-changer as she preps for a three-week trip to Spain.

Whether you're new to the idea of traveling light or you're a seasoned carry-on-only pro looking to simplify and refresh your packing system, this method gives you a flexible, easy-to-follow foundation. It’s perfect for longer trips, digital nomad life, and even those “what if I need it” overpackers. Plus, it’ll save you stress, time, money, and your back.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• Exactly what the 5-4-3-2-1 capsule method is and how to adapt it to your own travel style
• How to effortlessly build a wardrobe that works for every outfit—and every occasion—using just a few key colors.
• Smart strategies for turning a handful of pieces into dozens of outfit combos (yes, really!)

If you're someone who wants to travel with less and still feel like yourself, this one's for you. Grab your coffee—or your packing cubes—and let’s dive in.

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What if you could use astrology to find your ideal city for love, work, or your next big adventure?

This week on the podcast, you’ll explore a whole new layer of astrology that could totally change how you plan your travels or your next move. Host Kim Anderson chats with locational astrologer KJ Atlas about astrocartography, a fascinating system that overlays your birth chart onto the globe to help you figure out the best places to live, grow, and thrive.

Whether you're thinking about writing a book in Bali, launching a business in London, or just want to know why Costa Rica keeps calling your name, this episode helps you see how your cosmic blueprint can guide you to the places that support your purpose.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What astrocartography and locational astrology actually are and how to start exploring your map.
• How your planetary lines can reveal your best places for love, career, spiritual growth, or major life changes
• How to use astrology to choose destinations that align with the version of you you're becoming. 

If you're ready to stop guessing and start traveling with intention, this one's for you. Hit play and get inspired to align your next adventure with the stars.

RESOURCES:

Connect w/ KJ: Website, Instagram: @kj.atlas

⚡ ROUND BOOK: Astrology For the Soul by Jan Spiller

EPISODE DETAILS:

5:10 - Astro cartography can help you understand the energies

6:07 - All different people

18:20 - Before going into a professional astrology reading

30:53 - Looking at your Astrocartography map for the very 1st time.

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Think your driver’s license will still get you through airport security next month? Maybe… or maybe not.

In this week’s Travel Talk episode, host Kim Anderson shares what every U.S. traveler needs to know about the upcoming REAL ID deadline—and why it could be a major issue if you’re not prepared. Whether you fly all the time or just take the occasional trip to visit family, this episode is your no-nonsense guide to staying travel-ready.

The REAL ID requirement has been pushed back for nearly two decades, but with the May 7, 2025, deadline looming, it finally looks like it’s sticking. And if your ID isn’t compliant, you could be facing long TSA delays—or worse, a missed flight.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• What the REAL ID actually is (and how to know if you already have one)
• Why a passport doesn’t replace a REAL ID for domestic flights
• What to expect if you show up to the airport without one

So if you’re a U.S.-based traveler who loves to stay ahead of the game (or just hates the DMV), this one’s for you. Because trust me—you do not want to be that person scrambling at security come May.

👉 Hit play and make sure your ID is ready before your next adventure.

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Most people fantasize about escaping the modern world—this woman actually did it.

In this week’s episode, host Kim Anderson sits down with Miriam Lancewood, international bestselling author and wilderness explorer, whose life story reads like a modern-day survival epic. 

Miriam and her husband Peter walked into the wilds of New Zealand in 2010 with no technology, no back-up plan, and a big question: What happens to mind and body when you live far away from civilization? That one question shaped their next seven years—and changed their lives forever.

You’ll hear about the life skills it takes to truly live off the land, what it means to hunt your own food after growing up vegetarian, and why boredom might be one of the greatest teachers of all. Miriam also shares the story of their nomadic lifestyle across Europe, settling in the Bulgarian mountains, and the deep clarity that only nature can provide.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What it really takes to survive in the wilderness without modern tools or tech
• The unexpected truths about hunting, solitude, and slowing way down
• Why living with nature transforms your body, mind, and relationship

If you've ever dreamed of escaping the chaos and returning to something more primal, this episode is for you. Tune in—you might just walk away rethinking the way you live.

RESOURCES:

Connect with Miriam: Website & YouTube

Pick Up a Copy of Her Books:

1. Woman in the Wilderness
2. Wild at Heart: The Dangers of a Nomadic Life

WANT MORE? Check Out these episodes from other female adventurers:

• Rowing Across the Pacific, Breaking World Records & Redefining Leadership through Adventure Travel w/ Sophia Denison Johnston #32
• Walking the World: One Woman’s 20,000-Mile, 7-Year Journey Across 4 Continents w/ Angela Maxwell #154 

EPISODE DETAILS:

05:17 - You don't have to work in order to live

13:18 - The miracle 

15:13 - Confidence comes by comparison

26:14 - When you have nothing but time

35:50 - The key to a healthy, long-lasting  relationship

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Ever had a place just click for you in a way you couldn’t explain?

In this week’s Travel Talk episode, host Kim Anderson shares what makes a place feel like home—and why that answer is never one-size-fits-all. 

Inspired by her conversation with Nancy De Losa (Episode #166), who splits her time between Australia and Italy, Kim reflects on her own first experience in Italy, the instant connection she felt, and how that feeling shaped her travels going forward.

You’ll hear Kim’s personal story of living in the port of Rome, building community abroad, and learning to embrace the places that speak to your soul—whether or not anyone else understands. Because the truth is, what you love about a place might be exactly what someone else can’t stand—and that’s the beauty of it all.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why “What’s your favorite place?” isn’t always an easy question
• How to trust your gut when a place just feels right
• The importance of letting your travel experiences be yours—without comparison

If you’ve ever felt at home in a faraway place—or still wonder where that feeling might show up for you—this episode is your sign to keep exploring. So grab your coffee, press play, and let’s talk about the places that stay with you.

Craving more Italy–Australia inspo? Check out Episode #113 with fellow Italian-Australian Cristian Bonetto—a Lonely Planet author and travel writer with his own take on life between these two beautiful places.

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Ever wondered what it takes to turn your passion into a lifestyle—and your lifestyle into a business?

In this week’s episode, host Kim Anderson dives into the world of cycling, travel, and entrepreneurship with Nancy De Losa, co-founder of A’qto Cycling. Nancy’s journey spans across two continents—Australia and Italy—where she and her husband have built a boutique cycling tour company that blends sport, food, culture, and adventure. With a corporate marketing background and a passion for wellness and connection, Nancy’s story is the perfect blend of business and lifestyle design.

What can you expect in this episode? 

A conversation filled with insights on how to transform a passion into a thriving business, and the rewarding challenges of living across two continents. 

You’ll hear about the evolution of A’qto Cycling and why slowing down and embracing a seasonal lifestyle can bring unexpected joy and fulfillment.

TOPICS DISCUSSED:

• The secret sauce behind curating high-end cycling tours that offer more than just sport
• The lifestyle rewards and challenges of splitting time between Australia and Italy
• Why aligning your business with your personal values creates ultimate freedom

This episode is for dreamers, cyclists, aspiring digital nomads, and anyone craving inspiration on how to design a life they love—whether on the bike or off. 

Tune in for a journey of transformation, passion, and adventure!

RESOURCES:

Connect with Nancy: A'qto Website, Instagram, Facebook

⚡ ROUND BOOK: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

EPISODE DETAILS:

14:10 - Being partners in both business and in life

14:36 - If you're interested in becoming a travel entrepreneur

23:33 - Finding success as a travel entrepreneur

26:32 - Starting your own business

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Your suitcase is late—but what if I told you that’s a good thing?

In this week’s Travel Talk episode, host Kim Anderson shares a little-known travel hack that could score you free airline miles—all for waiting at baggage claim. Inspired by her conversation with Betsy (Episode #164), an Alaska Airlines points and miles expert, Kim breaks down exactly how this perk works, who’s eligible, and how to make sure you don’t miss out on easy miles the next time your bag takes its sweet time arriving.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The airline policies that reward you for delayed baggage.
• How to claim your miles (and the key deadlines you can’t miss!).
• Pro tips to make sure you always get the compensation you deserve.

So, the next time your suitcase is MIA at baggage claim, don’t stress—get rewarded. Tune in now!

Like this and want more? Check out these episodes for more travel hacking tips & inspiration!

• Travel More, Spend Less: The Ultimate Guide to Budget Travel Hacking w/ Kendyl Grender #58 
• Behind the Scenes of a Delta Brand Ambassador: From Corporate Girlie to Full-Time Travel Creator w/ Janelle on a Jet #129

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Ever wish you could fly business class without paying business class prices?

In this episode of Design Her Travel, host Kim Anderson sits down with Betsey, an Alaska Airlines points and miles expert who’s cracked the code on how to travel in luxury without draining your bank account. From grocery store hacks to unexpected redemption perks, you’ll learn how to stretch every dollar into travel rewards—especially if you’re flying Alaska Airlines.

Whether you’re completely new to the travel hacking game or you’re ready to level up your strategy, this episode will teach you smart, repeatable, and surprisingly easy ways to earn and redeem Alaska Airlines miles for maximum value.

You’ll learn:

• Why Alaska Airlines is one of the hottest loyalty programs right now
• How to earn miles on groceries, gift cards, and even late luggage
• How to book premium travel without spending premium money

This episode is for you if you're ready to stop watching everyone else fly first class and start doing it yourself—without spending more than you already are. Seriously, if you can buy a coffee, you can earn miles. Press play and prepare to be blown away.

RESOURCES:

• Connect with Betsey on Instagram @heralaskatravels
• ⚡ROUND Book: We Should All Be Millionaires by Rachel Rodgers
• Looking for that carryon with a seat? Check it out here: MiaMilly

EPISODES MENTIONED: 

• Behind the Scenes of a Delta Brand Ambassador: From Corporate Girlie to Full-Time Travel Creator w/ Janelle on a Jet #129

EPISODE DETAILS:

13:56 - Alaska and Hawaiian airlines recently merged

16:33 - If you are an Alaskan native 

18:57 - Amex platinum cards are a great way to get 5  points

20:08 - There are lots of ways to stack points and  miles

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Dreaming of taking your furry best friend on a European adventure? You’ll need this first.

In this week's Travel Talk episode, host Kim Anderson breaks down everything you need to know about the EU Pet Passport—the must-have document that makes traveling across Europe with your pet a breeze. 

Inspired by world travelers like Tom Turcich (who walked the globe with his dog, Savannah – Episode #162) and Stephanie & Gillian of Our Freedom Years (who roam with their two pups – Episode #20), this episode tackles the big questions:

• What exactly is an EU Pet Passport, and who needs one?
• How do you get one—and why can’t you get it before arriving in the EU?
• What are the biggest mistakes pet owners make (and how can you avoid them)?

If you’re planning to explore Europe with your four-legged companion, this episode is your one-stop guide to stress-free pet travel. Grab your leash, your pup (or cat… or ferret?), and tune in!

CONNECT with Kim and Support the Show:

• Instagram @designhertravel
• Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter

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One man, one dog, and a seven-year journey across 38 countries—this is their story.

In this episode, host Kim Anderson sits down with Tom Turcich, the tenth person to ever walk around the world—and the first to do it with a dog. After the sudden loss of a close friend, Tom was compelled to make the most of life. The day before his 26th birthday, he set out on an adventure that spanned seven years, 38 countries, and 28,000 miles, redefining his understanding of travel, resilience, and human connection.

Along the way, Tom faced extreme weather, illness, and the loneliness of long stretches on the road. He also gained an unexpected travel companion—Savannah, a rescue dog who became his loyal partner in adventure. From the mental and physical challenges of walking the world to the powerful lessons he learned about patience, purpose, and embracing the unknown, Tom’s journey is as inspiring as it is extraordinary.

Tune in to hear:
✔️ How grief and a love for adventure fueled Tom’s world walk
✔️ The logistics of walking across continents (with a dog!)
✔️ Life lessons from the road—why patience and presence are key to any dream

Whether you're dreaming of your own big adventure or looking for motivation to take the next step in life, Tom’s story will leave you inspired. 

CONNECT with Kim and Support the Show:

• Instagram @designhertravel
• Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter

CONNECT WITH TOM: 

• Website: The World Walk 
• Pick Up Your Copy of Tom's Book

RESOURCES Mentioned in the Episode:

• Episode #154: Walking the World: One Woman’s 20,000-Mile, 7-Year Journey Across 4 Continents w/ Angela Maxwell 
• Into the Wild by John Krakauer
• Karl Bushby
• Steve Newman

WANT MORE? Check out these episodes:

• Part One: The First Person to Travel to Every Country Without Flying w/ Thor Pedersen - Once Upon a Saga (Episode #59)
• Part Two: The First Person to Travel to Every Country Without Flying w/ Thor Pedersen - Once Upon a Saga (Episode #61)

EPISODE DETAILS:

5:25 You only have so much time in this one life

6:15 Dreams require commitment

8:26 You only get this one life

14:58 If you are living your dreams

25:36 The more you travel, the more you realize

36:21 We are all small humans

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Please Note: I may earn a small commission when purchasing through these links. It doesn't cost you anything extra but does help support the show.