Supporting my blog without credit card links

I didn't start this blog intending to leverage it into a source of income.  In almost 2 years, that is still true.  Would I like to just travel at my leisure and blog about it without having to work my 'day job'?  Sure, but I don't see that happening right now.  

I discuss my blog ethics in detail on my profile page.  I refuse to post credit card affiliate links; since I don't like the effect they have had on the content of so many miles/points blogs.  I certainly discuss miles/points, and use credit card bonuses to build balances, but I've tried to focus the content here on travel experiences.  I am not against credit card links, and other upgrd bloggers use them, which I understand, it is just not something that I am comfortable with for myself.

People have asked me about some products that I recommend and ways to thank me, and the intent of this post is to address that.  I may post affiliate links to products I endorse, typically on Amazon, but never for credit cards.  I have listed some below.  Some of these are Amazon affiliate links which pay me a small  percent if you choose to purchase via my link.  The price to you is the same.  I appreciate if you choose to support the blog in this way.

 

Vapur Element Water Bottle

This is a nice compact bottle that I carry when traveling.  It rolls up when not in use, and to get through security, but can easily be filled after screening.  Its very light and packs down very small.  I like the 0.7 L bottle, but there are larger options and various colors available.  

Tea Infuser Mug

I'm a tea drinker, and this is perfect option for travel.  I often also carry this with me.  There is a screen to separate out loose tea leaves.   It seals great, and keeps beverages warm for hours. 

Photive Hybrid iPhone 5 Bumper

I'm not a fan of big obnoxious cases on phones.  I prefer to let the work of the designers show.  Of course, within the first week I had it, I dropped my new iPhone 5, and decided I should do something to protect my investment.  This is simply a bumper, going around the outside edges, with a very low profile.

Eagle Creek Travel Pillow

This is a key component to help me sleep comfortably on a plane.  I don't carry it often, but I do for a domestic redeye or something similar.  The fleece covered pillow inflates/deflates in seconds and packs down very small.

Eagle Creek Pack-It Folder

I use this Eagle Creek product on nearly every trip I take.  I've found this really helps compress clothing in my luggage, and thanks to the folding board, it does a decent job of preventing wrinkles in my dress shirts when packed.   

 

Another travel related product I'm a big fan of is Award Wallet.  Although several airlines have limited access via the site, its still a great place to keep track of your points/miles, as well as all of the account numbers for all kinds of companies.  Click here to join Award Wallet.  After joining, if you'd like a free upgrade to your account, drop me a line at brad (at) upgrd.com and I can provide an upgrade for new users.

I also use BigCrumbs to pick up a small cash rebate on some online purchases.  Kevin detailed a nice way to leverage some cash back for airline ticket purchases with Big Crumbs.  Here is my referral link to Big Crumbs.