TCG Travel Guide: Recommendations for Expeditions [Flesh and Blood]

Hello. This is Yamada.
This time, I have written some recommendations for expeditions in Flesh and Blood, along with a guide to help you enjoy your travels more comfortably. While this article assumes overseas expeditions, the content is not much different for domestic travel, excluding things like passports and local currency.

Much of this may be obvious to those who are used to traveling, but I hope it will be helpful for those who are thinking, "I want to go on an expedition for the first time," or "I'm worried about what to prepare."

If you have any experiences or insights while reading, such as "This item is also useful!" or "This is how I do it," I would be very happy if you could share them in the comments.

*Ultimately, please research things yourself and proceed at your own risk. I am being irresponsible, but I cannot take responsibility for any trouble that may occur by using this note as a reference.
*The occasional links are provided to supplement parts where my explanation might be lacking; they are not necessarily items I have used myself, and some may be similar products.

Introduction

When you play Flesh and Blood, don't you see acquaintances or players traveling to tournaments in distant places, or even flying out of Japan to go overseas?

And haven't you ever had the feeling, "That looks fun," or "I want to go someday too"?
I was one of those people until just a year ago.

Large events like Callings, local card shops you don't usually visit, or taking the plunge and traveling overseas across the ocean.
I believe these are not just "tournament participation," but also "journeys that enrich your life a little."

In this article, based on the appeal of going on expeditions through Flesh and Blood, my experience actually participating in overseas Callings and Pro Tours, and my experience as a backpacker traveling through Europe for two weeks with just a backpack, I will introduce preparations and belongings to enjoy expeditions and travel comfortably. (Actually, I am a former tour conductor, and I think my experience of frequently staying in hotels for work is also being put to use in this article.)

Of course, expeditions cost money and time, and they are not always easy to realize. Also, I think there are people who think, "I want to enjoy card games and travel separately."

This article is merely a proposal based on my own values and experiences.
I would be happy if it is even a little helpful, and I apologize if it feels like I am forcing my views on you.

Why recommend expeditions? What is their appeal?

I think Flesh and Blood is the best TCG that you can fully enjoy even at local card shop tournaments. However, when you participate in large-scale events like a Calling, you can have wonderful experiences that are different from what you are used to.

Hundreds of players and many judges gather at the venue, and everyone there is a friend who loves Flesh and Blood. You will surely be surprised by the scale and the excitement.

If you just talk to someone walking around, even with broken English, you can end up exchanging contact information while having fun saying things like, "Where are you from?", "I went to Japan last year!", or "I drank a lot of Strong Zero!"
As long as you have the desire to communicate and a smile, the language barrier doesn't matter much.

Also, there are plenty of matches at these large events. Even if you lose and don't make it to Day 2, you can play about 7 to 9 rounds just on Day 1, so it's unlikely you'll feel like you didn't play enough.
Side events are also substantial, so even if you don't participate in the main event, you can enjoy Flesh and Blood all day long from morning until night.

Furthermore, there are benefits you can only get by going to the location, such as promo cards. There are plenty of pleasures other than the tournament itself, such as buying merchandise at the sales booth and interacting with players from regions you don't usually interact with.

And as for me, I use "expedition" as an excuse to enjoy sightseeing for a few days before and after the tournament. If I'm going overseas, I want to taste delicious food, visit tourist spots, and experience the local culture.

That is how I balance Flesh and Blood and travel as both important hobbies.

You will surely encounter a moment somewhere where you think, "I'm glad I went on this expedition." That is the greatest appeal of a Flesh and Blood expedition.

Things to do before departure

　To get straight to the point, preparation before departure is very important to ensure your expedition goes smoothly and you can enjoy it with peace of mind.

　Here, I have summarized the points I am particularly careful about in advance, assuming an overseas expedition. If you are traveling domestically, please skip the parts that assume international travel.

Basic preparation

• Decide on the event you will participate in
  Nothing can start until you decide this.

• Check your passport expiration date
  In many countries, you need to have at least 6 months of validity remaining. Be sure to check this.

• Check entry requirements for your destination
  Many countries require prior application for visas, ESTA, NZeTA, etc. Depending on the country, this can take several weeks. If you don't do this, you may not be able to leave or enter the country.

• Book your accommodation
  Be sure to check the plumbing and access to the venue. It might also be good to look into whether there are restaurants nearby and check the safety of the area. I like going to supermarkets and eating local ingredients, so I'm happy if there's a kitchen.
  ⚠️Always check the dates!⚠️
  (I never thought I would accidentally book for the wrong week.)
  Also, taking screenshots of booking confirmation emails or vouchers so you can check them offline can help prevent trouble.

• Book your flight
  If you try to save money, you often end up with early morning flights. Check in advance to make sure your access to the airport is feasible.
  For international flights, you should aim to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure.

• Check the tournament start time and registration time
  Lateness is strictly prohibited! If you are late for a competitive-level event, you will receive a very heavy penalty.

Preparations to Prevent Trouble

• Purchase travel insurance
  To prepare for any unexpected injuries or illnesses. Although I travel abroad quite often and have never had to use it, I personally recommend getting it just in case. Many plans also include coverage for personal belongings.

• Prepare local currency
  Make sure to prepare by exchanging money domestically or having a way to withdraw cash from local ATMs in advance. No matter how advanced a country is, there are always shops like street stalls or restaurants that only accept cash.
  Personally, I also have a faint hope that if I'm ever mugged, handing over money might let me get away safely (lol).

• Prepare credit cards for overseas use
  Having at least two is reassuring. It's not just about losing one; sometimes cards get blocked due to overseas usage, so having only one can really put you in a bind.
  Always, and I mean always, store the two cards in separate places!!

• Check vaccinations
  Depending on the region, it's better to get them. They aren't covered by insurance and cost tens of thousands of yen, but if something happens, it could cost you the rest of your life. If you go to a specialized clinic, they can advise you on which vaccinations to get based on the country you plan to visit, your budget, and the risks. Some take time to build up antibodies, so visit the clinic early.

• Keep a note of emergency contacts
  Family, embassy, airline, credit card company, etc. It might be good to also note down the address and directions for the embassy.

Points often forgotten

• Communication methods
  Personally, I think roaming or an eSIM is best. If you prepare either in advance, you can just turn it on when you arrive and be connected to the internet. This method doesn't require removing your physical SIM, which also helps prevent losing it.
  Pocket Wi-Fi is heavy and cumbersome despite being expensive. Above all, I personally hate having to constantly worry about charging two devices along with my smartphone (lol).
  Recently, they come with very detailed instructions, so even those who aren't tech-savvy can easily set up an eSIM.

• Check for prohibited items and special laws
  Example: In Singapore, gum and cigarettes are prohibited. It would be best if you just get them confiscated, but fines or getting arrested is the worst-case scenario.

• Purchase admission tickets for tourist spots you plan to visit in advance
  It can be cheaper if you buy them by the day before, and in the first place,there are many places where you can't make reservations unless you do so quite far in advance.I often go without a plan and end up unable to get in or having to wait a long time.

Essential items you shouldn't forget

Here is a list of basic items you absolutely shouldn't forget when going on an expedition!

• Passport
  It goes without saying. I've heard that keeping a copy of your passport makes the follow-up process smoother if you lose it, so as someone who often travels abroad alone, I make sure to bring one just in case. I want to avoid having to look up the details.

• Airline ticket
  Basically, it's fine if you can display it on your smartphone, but it's even safer to have a printed copy along with emergency contact information in case of trouble.

• Local currency and credit cards
  I already wrote about this, so I'll skip the details.

• Writing utensils
  This also applies to life memos, but there are times when it's convenient to be able to write on paper. Recently, I've preferred using small ones that fit in a deck case.
  I've been loving this one lately. It's smaller than a FaB card and about 2-3 cards thick. I stick it to my deck case with the included magnet.

• Smartphone & charger
  If you have a charger that can charge from a USB-A port, it's convenient because you can charge on airplanes or at free charging spots in airports.

• Travel adapter
  Be careful, as the outlet shapes are different in many countries. If you travel abroad frequently or visit multiple countries at once, a multi-type adapter is more convenient and versatile, but if you're only planning to go once, it's just expensive, bulky, and hard to use.
  Note that this is different from a voltage converter!

• Folding umbrella
  You might not use it, but if you don't have one, you'll be in trouble when it rains.What do you have in your bag?You have expensive things in there that shouldn't get wet, right?
  If you get one with UV protection, you can also use it as a parasol.

• Clothing
  Basically, it is convenient to have enough for the number of days you are staying. I do laundry, so I usually pack what I wear plus about two extra days' worth. It is helpful to separate them by day and put them in compression bags.

• Deck to use
  Let's also bring cards that you might need to swap in if necessary.

• Necessary supplies like dice and playmats
  You'll be in trouble without these, too.

• New sleeves
  Essential if there is a Limited event. Even if it's just Constructed, it's reassuring to have one spare set.

Useful items to have

Items that you don't necessarily need, but make things much more comfortable if you have them. I will introduce items that I personally felt were 'good to have' with me.
It would be a huge amount of luggage if you brought everything, so please choose what you need for yourself.

• Mobile battery
  For Japanese airlines,rules regarding carrying them onto airplanes became stricter starting July 8, 2025. Make sure to check the rules of the company you are planning to fly with.

• Foldable bag
  You can use it as an eco-bag locally, and it's also handy when your luggage increases with souvenirs. It's useful to have even a cheap one from a 100-yen shop.
  I don't think it needs to be a high-quality one like this.

• Deck case for Limited
  If you plan to play Limited, bring one empty case. It makes moving around easier.

• Sandals or Crocs
  They are convenient for relaxing on the plane or at the hotel.'If you are staying at a hotel with shared showers, these are upgraded to essential!'

• Spare glasses/contact lenses
  Depending on your uncorrected vision, would you be able to make it back to Japan if something happened? Especially if you usually wear contacts, it's a good idea to bring a pair of glasses just in case.

• Light jacket
  This is often recommended as a countermeasure against the very strong air conditioning found overseas. A hooded one is also recommended for sleeping, as it can help shut out your surroundings on the plane. It's best to bring a cheap one so you don't have to worry if it gets dirty.

• Japanese souvenirs
  Having these is useful for breaking the ice with people you meet for the first time.

• Extension cord/power strip
  One with USB ports is even more convenient.
  It's common for hotel outlets to be far away or for there to be a shortage of outlets when sharing a room, so just having one makes your hotel stay much more comfortable.
  I use one that looks like this.

• Carry-on sub-bag
  If you have one small sub-bag, you can keep things you might need during the flight together and place them in the pocket in front of you or at your feet. I just put valuables, a mobile battery, and other things I want to take out quickly in there.
  Also, if it's a shoulder bag, it's convenient for traveling light when going out for a bit at your destination.
  A small tip: many airlines allow one carry-on bag and one personal item. You can board with your main bag plus this small bag (as your personal item).
  If it's a tote bag type, make sure it has a zipper.

• Waterproof cover for suitcase/backpack
  It's like a raincoat for your bag. Having one makes it harder for the contents to get wet.

• Suitcase belt, bandana, or accessories
  You'll find it right away when picking it up at the airport. Distinctive luggage is less likely to be taken by mistake, so it's killing two birds with one stone. I always buy suitcases in flashy colors.
  Also, if your suitcase breaks, a belt can serve as a first-aid measure.

• S-hook
  If you keep one in your bag, you won't have to worry about where to put your luggage when eating or going to the restroom. You don't want to put your bags on a dirty floor, right?
  The key is to choose a slightly larger one with a high load capacity. After all, bags with cards in them are heavy!
  It really can be used in so many places.

• Freeze-dried miso soup
  Even if you're feeling under the weather, you can still drink this. Plus, Japanese food is the best!
  Some people even seem to bring individual packets of soy sauce.

• Disposable chopsticks or cutlery
  If you try to eat something in your room and you didn't get any or forgot to ask for them, having these means you won't have to eat with your hands. Bringing a washable set of bento utensils is also an option.

• Neck pillow
  It can reduce neck pain when sleeping on a plane. Personally, I start to feel like I need one for flights of about 5 to 6 hours or more.
  Personally, I find that if I use it backwards—with the opening at the back—my neck is properly supported and less likely to hurt. Does anyone agree with me!?
  If you want to reduce luggage, an inflatable type is also plenty comfortable!

• Eye mask
  When I went to London, I bought a slightly nicer eye mask on Amazon, and I was able to sleep incredibly comfortably!
  Something like this!

• Moisturizing mask
  The air inside an airplane is very dry. It's useful to have one to protect your throat and lips.
  If the sponge inside dries out, you can just ask for water and wet it again to keep using it.

• Standard medicine
  It's best if you don't end up needing it, but bringing things you use often, like headache medicine, stomach medicine, or cold medicine, can help you manage if you start feeling unwell.

• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
  If you plan on walking around sightseeing outdoors, it might be good to bring them just in case. The sun can sometimes be stronger than you expect.

• Toiletries
  You can get these locally, but if you prefer using products you're accustomed to, you should bring them.

• Earplugs
  It's fine if you're alone, but if you're staying with someone else, it's good to have them for each other's sake.
  When I worked as a tour conductor, I used to carry disposable earplugs to hand out to people I shared a room with for work (lol).

• Sewing kit
  A cheap one from a 100-yen shop is fine. It's incredibly useful to have when a button falls off or a bag breaks. The tiny scissors included for cutting thread are also handy for opening various things while traveling.

• Spare smartphone
  Just charge an old one you used to use once, then keep it in your bag. It makes a huge difference whether you have it or not if you lose your phone or it breaks. You shouldn't need to use it, but sadly, there have been times when it came in handy.

• Content to kill time
  If you download videos or similar content to your tablet or smartphone, you can use them for a change of pace on the plane or at your destination.
  It's also recommended to download Calling videos! You can study before the tournament!

Points to note when packing

Keep valuables in your carry-on!
Be especially careful not to accidentally put your passport in your checked luggage! You might end up unable to leave the country.
Also, keep other valuables besides your passport in your carry-on. You won't be able to shop in the duty-free area after security if you don't.
Also, depending on the country, suitcases can sometimes be opened quite easily.

Restrictions on carrying liquids
There are strict restrictions on carrying liquids into the cabin on international flights. Since checked luggage doesn't have these restrictions, it's better to pack them there, making sure to prevent any leaks.
Note that this also includes shampoo, lotion, and toothpaste.
Simply put, to bring them on board, you must follow these two rules:
1. All liquids must be in containers of 100ml or less.
2. Those containers must be stored in a clear, zippered plastic bag with a capacity of 1L (20cm x 20cm).

Mobile batteries cannot be checked in!

Conversely, mobile batteries cannot be checked in because they pose a fire risk. Always carry them into the cabin.
From July 8, 2025, the rules will become even stricter, and you will no longer be able to put them in the overhead bin. Having a small bag for your carry-on items will save you from having to carry them loose.

Note: Electric shavers, wireless earphones, pocket Wi-Fi, etc., may also be subject to restrictions if they use lithium-ion batteries. Check the website of the airline you plan to fly with.

Take measures against lost baggage

"Lost baggage" refers to the trouble of your checked luggage (suitcases, etc.) not arriving at your destination, or being lost or delayed when using an airplane.
In many cases, this happens because it was loaded onto a different flight, it didn't make it in time during a transit, or someone else accidentally took it after arrival.
Basically, it is usually found and returned to you within a few days.

However, those few days are fatal for overseas expeditions. As a basic defensive measure, keep items you will need immediately upon arrival, valuables, one night's worth of clothes, toiletries, and regular medication in your carry-on luggage instead of checking them.Make sure you won't be in trouble at a minimum even if your luggage disappears.
From the perspective of minimizing damage, purchasing travel insurance that includes compensation for lost baggage is also an option.
You don't hear about it much on itineraries without transit, but whether it happens or not is a matter of luck. You just have to pray.

Bonus: A few travel tips

Bring worn-out clothes and dispose of them locally

By throwing away shirts and underwear you've finished using locally, you'll have more room in your luggage for the return trip. It would be perfect if you could put souvenirs in the empty space! This is a technique that also reduces the hassle of laundry. If you want to be a little luxurious, it might be good to buy cheap things with the intention of throwing them away and take them with you.

Do laundry locally and significantly reduce your luggage!

You can stay for days with just about two days' worth of clothes by doing laundry at your hotel or a nearby laundromat, or by hand-washing in the bath. If you wash them yourself, quick-drying clothes and folding hangers will help them dry well.
If you plan to use a local laundromat, it's a good idea to pack your clothes in laundry nets, one day's worth at a time. You won't accidentally forget to bring clothes, and locally, you'll just swap clean items for dirty ones, and then just throw the net into the laundromat on laundry day.
Also, even if you don't do laundry, I recommend carrying a single-use detergent, as it's useful for quickly cleaning up if you stain your clothes.

Cook for yourself and save money at accommodation with a kitchen!

You can save money and have a local experience just by buying groceries at a supermarket and cooking simple meals. Personally, I like vegetables, fruits, and canned goods because they are easy to eat and make it easy to feel the cultural differences.
If you just want to keep costs down, going to Chinatown and buying instant noodles is an easy way to save money. A point to note in this case is that in places like Europe, they don't have bowls, so it can be difficult to eat. I recommend boiling the noodles, draining the water, and mixing in a little bit of the soup powder to make them like yakisoba!

LCC Expeditions: Win the Battle Against Weight Limits!

LCCs (Low-Cost Carriers) are a strong ally for traveling to domestic and international expeditions at a low cost. However, when using LCCs for expeditions, luggage weight limits are extremely strict.
LCCs are very cheap and helpful, but sometimes you need a little ingenuity to get by without extra charges.
So, I will introduce two little techniques that I have actually tried.

1. Clothes you are 'wearing' don't count!

• Wear two pairs of pants

• Layer multiple hoodies or jackets

Of course, you can take them off as soon as you get on the plane!
You might look a little strange, but as long as you don't put them on the scale, you're safe (lol).

2. Pocket contents are treated as 'things you are wearing, not luggage'!
Things in your pockets are not counted as items you are carrying, so if you use them well, you can save several kilograms.
For example, if you stuff small but heavy items like mobile batteries or books into your pockets, your luggage will become quite light. Of course, you can put these back in your bag once you're on the plane!

*These are tips based on the author's experience and are not guaranteed to work 100% of the time.
Since responses may vary depending on the airline or airport staff, please proceed at your own risk!own risk!

If you're in trouble at a restaurant, use photos and gestures!

If there is something you are interested in on a sign in front of a shop, take a photo before entering. Once you show that photo to the staff, your order is complete. No matter what language the country speaks, this will get your point across!
Also, if you are curious about what a nearby customer is eating, it's easy to just ask for that.
However, I cannot deny the possibility that they might think you're an easy target and try to cheat you. I once ordered using this method and was charged for a set but didn't get my drink. When I complained in broken English, they gave it to me with a disgusted look lol.

Be conscious of taking photos for social media

You should take photos that will leave memories, such as venue signs, match scenes, loot, and local gourmet food, so you can look back on them happily. Besides, didn't seeing those photos and X posts make you want to go on an overseas expedition even more?

To enjoy your expedition even more

Check which artists are attending

Depending on the venue, artists (people who draw the card art) may come.
You can get cards signed for about 1,000 yen, so if you are interested, I think you will enjoy it more if you research in advance and prepare your cards.

Attending artists will be announced on the official X, etc. This is what it's like for Pro Tour Yokohama!

The official card database allows you to check the cards written by an artist by entering their name.

Leave room in your bag and your wallet!

You can enjoy your trip even more if you have extra cash in your wallet to try rare local foods or buy cards! Large venues often have great finds at their merchandise booths!

Also, to bring your purchases home safely, make sure to leave some extra space in your bag on your way there.

Research places you are interested in

Meals and sightseeing are just as much a part of the fun of an expedition as the tournament itself.
However, unless your schedule is quite flexible, you probably won't have that much free time.
If you decide on a few places you want to visit in advance, you can make the most of your trip!

Conclusion

Thank you so much for reading this far.
I hope that through the card game Flesh and Blood, you can feel even a little bit of the charm of an expedition as a "journey" rather than just participating in a tournament.

You might feel anxious at first, but if you take that first step, you might find new encounters, experiences, and memories that go beyond just a card game waiting for you.

I hope this note serves as a catalyst to turn someone's "I want to go someday" into "Maybe I'll go."

If you have any items or tips other than what is written here, such as "This is what I do" or "I highly recommend this," please share them in the comments section!
I would be happy to use your ideas as a reference for my own next expedition.

Questions and feedback are very welcome!

If you found this article interesting, following or liking it would be a great encouragement for my next update. Sharing on X is also very welcome!

If you have any questions like "I'm curious about this!" or "Could you explain more?", please feel free to comment.
You can comment on this note, or send a reply or DM on X!
I will answer as clearly as possible, and casual chats are totally fine too ☺️
See you in the next article.