What happens when you ditch the itinerary, close the spreadsheet, and simply wander?

In this episode, we meet Kate and Kimberly, two adventurous travelers who swapped rushed vacations for a months-long slow travel journey across Europe and Latin America. And trust us—it's not just about beautiful views (though there are plenty of those).

They share with Crystal Hammond and Joe Saul-Sehy what it's really like to:

• Roam the winding streets of Venice, Florence, and Cinque Terre without a rigid plan

• Embrace the unexpected—from Christmas markets in Austria to Carnival in Brazil

• Discover the rhythm of life in places like Guatemala, Argentina, and Portugal

• Balance remote work and travel without losing the magic (or the Wi-Fi)

• Say no to travel perfectionism and yes to getting gloriously lost

Along the way, they reflect on the challenges of long-term travel, the joy of lingering in one place, and why slowing down can lead to deeper cultural experiences—and better stories.

If you've ever wondered what it would be like to take your time, immerse yourself in a new place, and make the world feel just a little smaller… this episode is your passport.

Pack light, take your time, and come wander with us.

We're BACK in Thailand with YOU, and the stories are (as expected) all over the map, and incredible. From backpacking to ending up in the ER, you've had some southeast Asian adventures. So...what happens when your perfect travel plans meet reality? In this episode, we dive into real-life stories from travelers who found magic in the mayhem—and lessons in the chaos.

You'll hear:

• Jesse Cramer's wild honeymoon tale from the Phi Phi Islands (spoiler: scuba diving doesn't always go to plan)

• A heartwarming and eye-opening moment from listener Denise at an elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai

• Crystal Hammond's savvy, budget-smart tips from her trip to Thailand

• Unexpected twists and local discoveries from travelers like Laurel, Katie, and Chris, who embraced the highs and lows of travel with curiosity and courage

These stories aren't just entertaining—they're full of reminders that the best parts of an adventure often happen when things go off the itinerary.

And before we wrap, don't miss our Gear of the Day—a small but mighty item that might just save your next trip from turning into a logistical nightmare.

So pack light, stay curious, and get ready for tales that might just inspire your next journey.

What happens when you take a bus to Travel Con, pack a Pilates bar, and chase the best local experiences? Crystal finds out.

Crystal Hammond returns from Travel Con with her backpack full of insider tips, unexpected laughs, and some seriously useful travel hacks. From the moment she stepped on a shuttle in Tucson, this adventure was all about curiosity, connection, and clever ways to travel smarter.

• A behind-the-scenes look at Travel Con—including the quirky bus ride that kicked it all off

• Must-know gear tips, like collapsible water bottles and a surprisingly travel-friendly Pilates bar

• Why Airbnb Experiences are the secret to unlocking a destination's real culture

• Smart ways to save money using airport shuttles, public transport, and Costco car rentals

• Sustainable travel practices and how to stay grounded (even when jet-lagged)

• Credit card strategies and road trip snack wisdom that might just change how you pack

Plus, Crystal shares tips from fellow adventurers she met along the way—like Dominic's genius hack, new tricks for navigating unfamiliar cities, and how to keep a routine while still saying yes to spontaneity.

If you want your next trip to be more intentional, more fun, and way less expensive, this episode is your passport to better adventures.

Looking for our gear-of-the-day? Head to https://stackingadventures.com/gotd

Hoping to contribute to a future show? Tell your story at https://stackingadventures.com/mystory

Is stacking just a fun pastime… or is there real science behind the obsession?

Today, we go deep—clinically deep—into the phenomenon of stacking with Dr. Nicole Meli from Moreland Hills University, the leading researcher on the psychology and history behind our favorite pastime. Joining the conversation is Crystal Hammond, world record holder in Lego stacking (yes, really), and Joe Saul-Sehy, who may not hold any records but definitely has opinions.

From the dopamine hit of a perfect stack to the dark side of stacking gone too far, this episode is filled with enlightening research, relatable stories, and a few jaw-dropping confessions.

In this episode:

• The fascinating psychology of stacking—why we do it, what it triggers, and how it started

• Crystal Hammond's journey to stacking greatness (with a few literal and figurative collapses)

• Dr. Meli explains when stacking becomes too much—and how to spot the warning signs

• Listener stories of stacking triumphs and near-disasters

• A special edition Gear of the Day reveal that might just change your stacking game

• A totally professional commercial break that definitely didn't go off the rails

Whether you're a casual stacker, an adventure addict, or someone trying to understand a loved one's growing collection of "just one more stackable thing," this episode brings science, insight, and plenty of laughter.

🎧 Tune in and discover the science behind your next great adventure—one stack at a time.

Do you dream of embarking on a legendary pilgrimage filled with breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable encounters, and just enough unexpected twists to keep things interesting? This episode, we lace up our boots and dive into the adventure of a lifetime: hiking the Camino de Santiago with special guest Tom Schwab (founder: Interview Valet).

Tom trekked 500 miles in 26 days alongside his wife, Karen, and he's here to spill the details—from the magic of the journey to the blisters that tried to ruin it. We cover everything from essential packing tips to the cultural moments that made the Camino unforgettable. Plus, Tom reveals one hiking item he swears by: Salty Britches (trust us, you'll want to hear this one).

In this episode:

• Crystal's Hiking Adventure in Tucson – A warm-up before the main event!
• Camino 101: What You Need to Know – Planning, packing, and why this pilgrimage is unlike any other hike.
• Daily Life on the Trail – Walking, eating, meeting fellow adventurers, and dodging blisters.
• Travel Logistics & Points Hacks – How to fly into France, traverse Spain, and make the most of your journey.
• Reaching the Cathedral – What it feels like to finally step into Santiago after weeks on foot.
• Language Barriers & Cultural Moments – Spoiler: Smiling and hand gestures go a long way.
• Gear of the Day: The One Item That Saves Hikers Everywhere – Hint: It's not what you think.

Whether you're planning your own Camino adventure or just love hearing about epic travel stories, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and a few surprises along the way.

🎧 Tune in and take the first step toward your next great adventure!

Looking for our gear of the week? Head to https://stackingadventures.com/gotd

Ever dreamed of jetting off to Thailand for a mix of adventure, culture, and surprisingly affordable luxury? Crystal takes center stage in this episode, sharing her 2019 journey across three stunning islands, giving us an inside look at Thailand's vibrant food scene, picturesque beaches, and budget-friendly splurges.

• Flights with Qatar Airlines – Was the experience worth it, and what should you know before booking?
• Bangkok like a pro – From street markets to tuk-tuk rides, what's worth your time (and what's just a tourist trap)?
• Wedding in Thailand? – A unique celebration in an unexpected location.
• Island hopping & hidden gems – Diving, speedboat rides, and the luxurious Jamahkiri Resort & Spa experience.
• The best travel gear to make your trips "betterer." Because the right gear can turn a good trip into a great one.

If you've ever wanted to explore Thailand on a reasonable budget without sacrificing amazing experiences, Crystal's got the tips and insights to make it happen. Plus, there's a wild snack discovery that might just surprise you.

Find our Gear of the Day pick and ALL of our cool adventuring gear at https://stackingadventures.com/gotd

Strap on your hiking boots (or just grab a comfy chair) as Crystal, Joe, and a crew of adventure enthusiasts take you on a journey through the wild wonders of Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Muir Woods. Expect epic tales, unexpected detours, and a few moments of sheer survival mode—because what's a national park trip without a little chaos?

In this episode:

• Amanda's Grand Canyon Trek – She and her friends tackled the canyon, but did they make it out in one piece? (Spoiler: Yes, but not without stories to tell.)
• Joe vs. Two-Year-Olds at the Grand Canyon – Ever tried hiking with toddlers? Joe has, and let's just say gravity was not on his side.
• Karen's Husband, the Yellowstone Trickster – Nothing stops traffic like a bear sighting… or at least the illusion of one. Karen's husband puts this theory to the test, sending eager tourists into full camera-clicking mode—for absolutely nothing.
• Avoiding the Crowds Like a Pro – Discover secret pockets of peace in America's most popular parks (yes, even Yellowstone).
• West Virginia Wonders – Amanda swaps canyons for the serene beauty of New River Gorge—a hidden gem for adventurers.
• The 'Gear of the Day' Mystery – Can you guess what travel essential keeps adventurers cozy in all conditions? We reveal a Smart Wool secret that'll change your packing game.
• Coming Soon: Thailand Teasers – Get a sneak peek at our next journey—think elephants, street food, and maybe a tuk-tuk race or two.

Whether you're a national park newbie or a seasoned trailblazer, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical tips, and a little friendly chaos to fuel your next outdoor adventure.

🎧 Tune in and let's hit the trail!

Today we talk to not one but TWO guests who BOTH know how to save TONS of money on travel. First, Chris Hutchens from All The Hacks podcast LOVES to find ways to travel the world for nothing (or next to nothing). Second, George Igoe has a top series on the Million Stories YouTube page about seeing different cities for $100 or less. He shares some of his favorites on today's show!

These interviews are from 2022, so if there's any mention of prizes, giveaways, or current events, realize this is a Greatest Hits episode from Stacking Benjamins. Our Stacking Adventures show returns with NEW shows next week (but we HAD to play this one today because it's so, so, so good).

Remember when Libby Gifford raved about Olympic National Park being her all-time favorite? Well, we took that as a challenge and just wrapped up an epic two-day adventure through its jaw-dropping landscapes. Spoiler alert: Libby was absolutely right.

From the snow-capped peaks of Hurricane Ridge to the rugged coastline of Rialto and Ruby Beach, we packed in as much as possible—including hidden gems like Crescent Lake, unforgettable hikes, and some close encounters with wildlife (hello, bald eagles and sea lions!).

If you're planning your own Olympic National Park getaway, we've got you covered with insider tips on accommodations, must-see spots, and the things we wish we knew before we went. And yes, we'll get into tide pooling, because if you're not checking out sea stars and anemones, are you even doing this trip right?

Oh, and stick around for our "Gear of the Day" pick—a must-have for your next outdoor adventure.

• Libby's Favorite Park: Why Olympic National Park tops her list.
• Getting There: The journey to the park and what to expect.
• Crescent Lake: The perfect mix of serenity and scenery.
• Cape Flattery Adventure: Standing at the northwesternmost point of the U.S. mainland.
• Tide Pooling at Rialto Beach: Why you need to bring waterproof shoes (trust us).
• Staying at Kalaloch Lodge: A scenic spot with interesting pricing.
• The Iconic Tree of Life: The gravity-defying tree you need to see.
• Ruby Beach & Other Coastal Stops: Unbeatable views and moody PNW vibes.
• Lake Alt & Historical Hikes: Trails, history, and why you should bring extra snacks.
• Wildlife Encounters: Bald eagles, sea lions, and more surprises.
• Olympia Side Trip: Pizza wins and losses, parking struggles.
• Travel Tips & Lessons Learned: What to know before you go.
• Gear of the Day: Our top pick for making your next adventure even better.

✔️ Olympic National Park is ridiculously diverse. Snowy mountains, lush rainforests, and stunning beaches—all in one trip. ✔️ Plan your accommodations wisely. Some spots are worth the price, others… not so much. ✔️ Tide pooling is a must. Just don't forget waterproof shoes unless you enjoy ice-cold toes. ✔️ Wildlife sightings are next-level. Bring binoculars—you never know what you'll see. ✔️ Olympia has meh pizza. Parking, however, is another story altogether.

Tune in now for the ultimate guide to exploring Olympic National Park and making the most of your adventure!

Today Joe and Crystal embark on a journey to the world's most romantic destinations. From the sun-kissed beaches of Indonesia to the charming gondolas of Venice, they reveal their top five picks for couples seeking unforgettable getaways. Along the way, they explore breathtaking hotels, intimate dining spots, and hidden gems in Greece, France, Italy, and beyond. Even if you're not romantically involved, you'll find yourself falling in love with ALL of these places.

Not just about faraway escapes, Joe and Crystal also highlight romantic locales closer to home—perfect for a spontaneous weekend retreat. And for those who love to stay active while traveling, don't miss their Gear of the Day pick: a fitness tracker that keeps you on time and in shape wherever love takes you.

Highlights from this episode:

• 🌍 Enchanting romantic destinations across the globe
• 🏝️ Exotic beach escapes and historic European cities
• ❤️ Hidden gems and personal travel love stories
• 🏨 Luxurious stays and dreamy dining experiences
• 🎒 Gear of the Day: A must-have fitness tracker

Whether you're planning your next big trip or just dreaming about future adventures, tune in for inspiring stories, expert recommendations, and the ultimate romantic travel guide!

Stacking Adventures: Where wanderlust meets love.