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😱💵🚨Scams, Deals & Tips: DON'T Get Caught Out!
Published 21 days ago • 19 min read
Olá Again from The Costa Del Sol
Hey there Reader,
Hola from Fuengirola, where we’re soaking up the last of the Costa del Sol vibes before heading east to the Costa Blanca tomorrow.
We’re trading beachy sunsets for a villa with a pool and three furry kitties to care for—talk about a purr-fect gig!
Our time here has been a blast, living like locals, dodging the tourist chaos, and sipping Spanish artisanal cerveza with new friends.
The Spanish lifestyle is all about late dinners and even later sunsets, so my bedtime’s been creeping past midnight—yawn!
But the laid-back Spanish charm makes it all worthwhile.
Now, don’t worry, I haven’t gone full tin-foil-hat paranoid with all this talk about security in this and the last few newsletters (promise!), but as you’ll see in our first section, the bad guys are getting seriously clever.
This week’s newsletter is packed with tips and deals to keep you safe, savvy, and saving big on your travels.
Here’s what’s inside:
A Close Call: I Think a BlueSnarfer Nearly Got ME!!! – My brush with a sneaky tech scam and how to avoid it.
Time-Sensitive Deals From Our Travel Partners – Grab these seriously good discounts before they vanish!
Power Up, Pack Smart: New Carry-On Rules for Your Devices! – Don’t lose your power bank at check-in—here’s the latest on lithium battery rules.
Flight Delays? New Compensation Rules Provide Some Solace – From Thailand to the EU, learn how to claim cash for disruptions.
Travel Tips for Long-Term Trips: Hack-Proof Your Travels: Why You Need a Password Manager – Keep your digital life locked down, no Rainman memory required.
So dive in to stay one step ahead of delays, scams, and travel hiccups.
Plus, score some sweet deals to fuel your next adventure and catch up on our latest travel plans.
Read on....
Excellent Spanish craft beer and tapas at our favorite local - El Grifo Perita
*Note: Some of the links in this email are from our partners, including AMAZON. If you purchase a product or service using those links, we get a SMALL commission to help pay for the website and this newsletter. But we promise - you won't pay any more than you would if purchasing directly. You can read our full disclosure here.
A Close Call: I Think a BlueSnarfer Nearly Got Me!
FFS!!!
Just when you think the bad guys can't get any smarter, they do! And over a month later, I only just realized what happened.
I have a shiny new Honorband 9, synced to my phone new Samsung phone via Bluetooth. Who doesn't like to know how many steps they walk each day?
Anyway, some of you might remember we were in Lisbon recently and had discovered a nice little craft beer bar around the corner from the apartment we housesat.
We were sitting having a beer and suddenly, my phone pings—a “pairing request” pops up.
Weird, since my band’s already paired, but my old phone used to drop connections, so I hit “yes” without thinking.
Then, an “Honor update” starts downloading to my phone, claiming it’s version 18 point something.
At that point my spidey senses tingle—my old Honorband never auto-updated in six years. It always asked permission and I don't have auto update set for my apps.
A quick check on Honor’s site showed the latest version was still 17 point something.
Something seemed very fishy.
With adrenaline levels raised, I quickly uninstalled the Honor app, and restarted my phone.
I scoured my device for rogue files—nothing.
I then scanned my phone with Norton - Again, nothing
Feeling somewhat relieved, I reinstalled the app and paired it with my watch again.
I was prompted to update the app recently and it's STILL version 17 point something!!!!
All very strange.
Was it just a glitch, or something darker?
As most of you know, I’ve been on a security kick lately, and after reading about zero-click cyber attacks , and Bluetooth Hackers I’m wondering if I dodged a bullet.
Zero-Click attacks don’t need you to click anything—hackers sneak malware into your device through multimedia files, video calls, or even authentication requests like my sketchy “pairing” prompt.
They exploit app or device flaws, slipping in spyware or eavesdropping tools to steal data like messages or photos. They’re sneaky, leaving no trace, and often target phones via apps like WhatsApp or iMessage.
'Bluesnarfers' are a little different. They can connect to your phone via Bluetooth without you ever knowing, and if there are security flaws, they can take control of your phone and your apps!!!
Was that “update” malware hitching a ride on the pairing request?
I don't think I'll ever really know, but if it was, I probably stopped any damage by quickly uninstalling the app and rebooting my phone.
As per the zero-click article linked above, restarting your phone can wipe temporary exploits.
And, after my recent blitz on enabling 2FA on all our important accounts and apps, hopefully I stopped anything too nefarious.
So after A LOT of reading, here are some tips to stay secure:
Update Regularly: Keep your phone and apps updated to patch vulnerabilities. Common advice is to allow auto-updates, but after this encounter, I prefer to do mine manually.
Use Cybersecurity Software: Install a trusted antivirus to catch malware. I use Norton as part of our ultimate package, but Nord also has this functionality in their new product.
Limit App Permissions: Restrict apps’ access to your data or camera unless necessary for operation.
Stick to Trusted Apps: Download only from official stores like Google Play and the App store.
Reboot Often: It's convenient to just leave your phone on permanently, but regular reboots can disrupt some attacks.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi Risks: Use a VPN or skip sensitive tasks on open networks. We have Norton but NordVPN is also well-respected.
Make your Blue-tooth "not discoverable" or turn off when not required. Most modern phones should hide it to other devices automatically, but you should check your settings. I suspect that if this was an attack, it was my watch rather than my phone that caught the "snarfers" attention.
Trust your Gut - if something feels off, uninstall any suspect app immediately and turn off your phone. Better to be safe than sorry.
Takeaway: Cybercriminals are getting craftier with things like zero-click attacks and Bluetooth hacks that can be difficult to detect.
My Lisbon scare taught me to trust my instincts, act quickly and make sure we have multiple layers of security.
Stay alert, keep devices locked down, and don’t let a sneaky hack derail your travels or your life!
Time-Sensitive Travel Deals From Our Partners
As supected summer deals are coming in thick and fast this week and you can save some serious cash on your next trip with these time-sensitive deals from our partners.
Cover-More, our current travel insurer has an excellent deal for Australian travelers this month that could save you hundreds.
When should you take our travel Insurance?
In our experience, the same time as you make your first booking - whether that be flights, accommodation or a tour. That way you're fully covered if something goes wrong to prevent you taking the trip.
So even if your next adventure isn't until later in the year, it's worth getting a quote and grabbing this deal if you're already locked into the trip.
Get a Quote HERE and the promo code: SAVE15 will get automatically applied.
Realistic Asia, is a trusted operator that crafts immersive small-group adventures, blending local culture, food, and unique experiences for unforgettable trips. They score an impressive 4.5 on Trip Advisor from almost 800 reviews.
From local immersion in Bali's temples, culinary classes in Hanoi, to island hopping in Thailand, there’s something for everyone—family, adventure, culture, sustainable, beach, romantic, luxury, or slow travel.
The tours are worth checking out, if only for inspiration for your next trip.
(Note: the company also runs tours in Malaysia, South Korea, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Bhutan, and the Philippines)
With prices starting at just $389, there's something for every taste and budget.
Bonus
With both deals you get TourRadar's "Best Price" guarantee, plus all the other TourRadar benefits such as generous payment plans, 24/7 customer support, and more. (Read about those extras here.)
But here's an EXTRA BONUS - use our Exclusive partner code: travelbug25, at the checkout and get an extra 25$ OFF!
To understand all of the beneifts of booking with TourRadar rather than direct with each tour company, read our comprehensive review.
If you've ever dreamed of visiting the Arctic, GAdventures have just released their newArctic collection.
Remote, raw, and rich with life, the Arctic is where nature and culture meet on the edge of the map. Their small-ship expeditions give you a front-row seat to dramatic landscapes, rich histories, and iconic wildlife like polar bears, whales, and puffins.
Nord has just released the latest product in its online protection suite.
NordProtect is an advanced cybersecurity solution that helps users stay safe online by preventing malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks. It's a powerful addition to the Nord security suite.
Secure your accounts with 24/7 dark web monitoring
Track your credit activity and credit score
Receive actionable security alerts and notifications
Get up to $1M to cover identity theft recovery costs
Unfortunately, it's only available to customers in the United States at the moment, and I'm waiting on an answer as to when the rest of us can have access.
At the moment, they have 50% off annual plans.
Power Up, Pack Smart: New Carry-On Rules for Your Devices!
Carry-on rules are always shifting, and you need to stay on top of things or face an unpleasant surprise at check-in.
One of the latest developments is around electronics - or more specifically, any device with lithium-ion batteries - ie, power banks, phones, and laptops.
Most airlines have banned these from your checked luggage for a while now due to fire risks from thermal runaway.
No problems, we always carry all our electronics on board. But usually we keep most things securely tucked away in the overhead compartments.
However, many airlines now require portable chargers in carry-ons stay in plain sight, rather than get stashed in overhead bins
And some Asian carriers even ban their use during flights. That's a pain on the cheapo airlines as many don't have charging ports to ensure you have a fully-charged phone when you reach your destination.
Before flying, check your charger’s watt-hours (Wh)—most are under 100Wh (e.g., a 20,000mAh power bank is ~74Wh). Anything between 101- 160Wh is likely to need airline permission, and anything over 160Wh is banned, so don't bother trying to take it.
Pack power banks and devices with lithium-ion batteries (up to 100Wh, or 101–160Wh with airline approval) in your carry-on.
Protect the device by keeping them in original packaging, covering terminals with non-conductive tape to prevent short circuits, and/or storing in a ziplock bag.
If you’re gate-checking a bag, remove chargers and keep them with you. Nobody wants their pricey power bank confiscated at security or causing a delay!
To stay up to date, check the FAA’s Pack Safe page (faa.gov) or TSA’s "What Can I Bring" tool (tsa.gov) before every trip. While these are US based information sources, most rules should be universal.
Follow airline-specific rules—some Airlines, may still allow devices in checked bags if powered off, but it’s safer to stick with carry-on.
Check your airline’s website for any specifics. - Google - "Airline" What items are prohibited on board and you should find the right page. For example, This is RyanAir's (Our next flight.)
In a Nutshell: Don’t risk losing your charger or a fire—understand the rule of your flight and make sure you turn up prepared on the day. keep lithium-ion batteries in your carry-on, protected and powered off.
Check TSA and airline rules to avoid surprises, and stay informed to breeze through security.
Safe travels!
Flight Delays? New Compensation Rules Provide Some Solace.
Flight delays and cancellations are a traveler’s nightmare, but countries like Thailand, the EU, Canada, Brazil, and even the U.S. are stepping up with passenger protection rules to soften the blow.
For example:.
Thailand’s latest scheme, (effective May 20, 2025): Offers 1,200 THB ($37 USD) for domestic flight disruptions and up to 4,500 THB ($137 USD) for long-haul international flights, plus meals or refunds for significant delays.
Under EU Regulation EC 261/2004, passengers are entitled to €250–€600 for delays over 3 hours, cancellations with less than 14 days’ notice, or denied boarding on flights from EU airports or arriving on EU-based airlines.
The U.S. updated rules in 2024, mandating automatic refunds for cancellations or delays over 3 hours (domestic) or 6 hours (international), but cash compensation isn’t guaranteed.
For fliers, these rules mean better protections, but understanding what you're entitled to and claiming your rights directly can be a headache—airlines often delay, reject claims, or push vouchers instead of cash
AirHelp simplifies the process by handling claims under these various regulations with a high success rate, using AI and a global database to check eligibility in minutes.
You spend ~10 minutes submitting details to see if you have a claim
Their AI (lawyers) tools and database streamline eligibility checks and if you're owed, they take on the job of chasing your money for you.
You save weeks of effort compared to direct airline claims, which often face rejections.
Claims may still take some time to resolve, but your submission takes ~10 minutes versus hours chasing individual airlines.
AirHelp charges 35% (50% with legal action), which reduces your payout, but unless you have a lot of time on your hands, it's probably worth it to reduce the hassle.
BUT... if you opt for one of their AirHelp Plus plans, which are very reasonable for frequent flyers (<100/year on their top plan), those fees are waived, ensuring you get 100% of the compensation.
Plus, you get perks like €100 AirPayout for disruptions, lounge access for delays over 1 hour, and human support at the time. And they now have compensation for missed connections.
Personally, we normally have plenty of buffer built into our trips that we can handle a delay.
Once, a volcano eruption diverted our flight to Ecuador, landing us a night in a 5-star hotel—nice, but then they forgot us and left us off the replacement flight resulting in a 16-hour bus ride to get us back to our planned destination!!! It didn't occur to us we might be owed some cash (and I doubt we were!)
But other than that, I can't say we've ever been in a situation where we've thought about compensation. in fact, I'd happily give up my seat and take the next flight if it meant a nice wad of cash from the airline.
However, we often read about chaos in Europe and the US, so it's reassuring to know that services like Airhelp are available to take out the hassle of making a claim if you do want to.
If you've just joined our Travel Bug Community, you can find previous tips on getting ready for long-term travel on the newsletter archives page.
So far in our long-term travel tips series, we've covered the fundamentals: How to:
Define your travel goals and bucket lists,
Set your baseline,
Create and refine your budget
Find extra income streams while traveling
Identify your support crew, and
Perform an annual banking review
Find accommodation for extended periods
Implement long-term Health Management Strategies
Keep Money and funds safe
Stay prepared in case of disaster
Ways to Cut Your Accommodation Costs
Secure Your Online Security with 2FA
VPN Tips for Globetrotters
Cloud Storage for Safe & Accessible Data Anywhere
This week, we're discussing Password Managers.
Travel Tip N14 - Hack-Proof Your Travels: Why You Need a Password Manager
Why Use a Password Manager?
Traveling opens up new adventures, but using the same or simple passwords (like “password123”) for your accounts is a security nightmare.
Hackers can crack a 6-digit numerical password (e.g., 123456) in milliseconds using brute-force attacks, where they try every possible combination.
A 12-character password with uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters (e.g., K7#mP9$qL2Gv) could take centuries to crack, thanks to its complexity.
But let’s be real—nobody can remember unique, complex passwords for every travel app, bank, or email account unless you’re Rainman.
A password manager is another of your digital bodyguards, keeping you safe from hacks.
What Does a Password Manager Do?
Basically it's like a secure vault for your logins.
Password managers like Dashlane (which we use), 1Password, or Bitwarden generate strong, random passwords (think gibberish like X9#vT$2kQz) and store them securely.
They autofill your logins on websites or apps, so you don’t need to type or memorize anything.
Just log into the manager, and it handles the rest across your phones, laptop, or tablet.
Extra Features to Love:
Beyond passwords, many managers offer:
Secure Notes for storing travel itineraries, credit card details, or passport info (Dashlane gives 1GB for notes and files).
Dark web monitoring alerts you if your email or passwords leak online. Some, like Dashlane, include a VPN for secure Wi-Fi, or
Password health checks to flag weak or reused passwords.
Best Practices for Your Vault:
Your master password unlocks everything, so make it long (16+ characters) and unique (e.g., “SunnyBeach2025!vL9”).
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA), which adds a second step, like a code sent to your phone before gaining access.
Save recovery codes (in case you lose access to your account) in a safe place (not your email!) in case you forget your master password or your 2FA.
Summary:
A password manager is another excellent tool for keeping your digital life secure.
Along with 2FA, VPN's, and secure cloud storage, Password Managers can keep your online activities safe. so you can focus on exploring.
It’s another part of the security toolkit for peace of mind.
Checklist:
Choose a password manager (e.g., Dashlane, 1Password, Bitwarden).
Create a strong master password (16+ characters, mixed types).
Enable 2FA for extra security.
Store recovery codes securely.
Turn on any extras available, such as dark web monitoring.
Travel Partners That Saved Us Money This Week
This week, we’re giving a shoutout to 🏆Trip.com and Wise for helping us score big savings on our upcoming adventure! As you’ll read below, we’ve locked in our post-Spain route to the Caucasus, with a stop in Budapest to reunite with friends moving back from Vietnam to Central Europe. Here’s how these two platforms made it happen.
Booking the Flight: Valencia to Budapest
After comparing options, Ryanair offered the best deal by far—hundreds of dollars cheaper than competitors. Booking directly on their site was the most cost-effective choice. But there was a catch: their payment system tried to hit us with a terrible exchange rate (1.875 EUR to AUD vs. 1.758—nearly a 6% markup!) for our credit card. Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) like this can quietly drain your wallet if you’re not paying attention.
Enter Wise. By using our Wise debit card, we bypassed Ryanair’s inflated rate and paid in Euros at a near-perfect conversion rate of 1.76. Even with a slightly higher online fee, we saved 28 AUD compared to using our credit card. It’s not a fortune, but every bit counts when it stays in our pocket.
Booking the Flight: Budapest to Baku
For the next leg, Wizz Air was the clear winner for price. But here’s the kicker: booking through Trip.com saved us over 100 AUD compared to Wizz Air’s own site (574 AUD vs. 676 AUD), even after Trip.com’s booking fee. Plus, we earned more Trip Coins, bringing us one booking away from Diamond status—unlocking perks like two lounge passes for future trips. Score!
Key Takeaways for Smarter Travel
Compare, compare, compare. Always check prices on multiple platforms like Trip.com, Skyscanner, and WayAway, as well as directly with airlines. You might be surprised where the best deal pops up.
Watch those payment fees. If the conversion rate or fees look fishy, switch to a service like Wise for fairer rates and transparent costs.
These small moves added up to big savings, letting us stretch our travel budget further. These two savings were over 10% of the total cost of the two flights for both of us.
Have a favorite booking hack?
Share it with us!
How Our Travel Plans Are Shaping Up
Well, we finally made a decision on how to get from Spain to Georgia. Friends of ours are moving from Vietnam to the Czech republic, via a visit to family in Hungary.
Their dates lined up with ours and the flights to Baku via Budapest were among the cheapest available.
So we've locked in 5 days, 4 nights in one of the most beautiful capital cities in Europe.
So here's the updated plan:
We move from Fuengirola, near Malaga and Marbella in Spain in a few days to Calpe on the Costa Blanca for 18 days.
8 days in central Valencia with a kitty called Meatball.
We then fly to Budapest for 5 days to catch up with friends and then...
Fly to Baku. We still haven;t nailed our itinerary but we'll probably spend a week or so in Azerbijan and then head to Georgia to explore a few places before starting an 18 day sit in Tbilisi.
We then have 10 days to explore other parts of Georgia and Armenia before heading back to the UK.
We then have a 2 week sit in a house in the center of Cambridge.
We'll then spend a few weeks catching up with friends before heading south to Asia Pac, the long way round. Visas and insurance are barriers to entry for a couple of our bucket list countries, so we're looking at Plan B for what that route might be.
Watch this space!
Travel Bloggers, Websites, Info and Newsletters You Might Like
Hmmm, despite having a very comfy work station in our housesit in Fuengirola, I've been quite slack in getting our Lisbon walking tour itineries nailed, and I've not discovered anything much new I thought you'd be interested in
But I was pretty chuffed with them positive feedback some of you sent me on my City Card post I added last week, so I'll mention it here again, in case you haven't read it yet.
By using our links when you book, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you - This allows us to produce free content that helps you travel better and longer for less. Affiliate Disclosure
We're long-term travelers sharing our passion for independent, budget travel. Every newsletter gives you travel tips from experts, lessons from the road, great deals, and carefully curated travel products & services.
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