"Not to mention that with a Cpd you'll be asked for money at a lot of borders in order to stamp it."

NOT TRUE AT ALL.

I was never asked for any stamping fee for my Carnet in my 3 year African trip. There was sometimes a road tax or something that you paid regardless (Tanzania/Kenya), but never anything for entering with the carnet. I did the same countries as you plus quite a few more.

In a few cases there were audible sighs of disappointment when I produced it, as it mean't no opportunity for them to pocket a few dollars.

It made borders much easier I found - no need to talk to anybody, just get a stamp in and out (if they could be bothered doing it!).

Overall I think having a internationally recognised document is a great way of approaching things - I had 3 altogether, new ones sent out when the old one was going to expire, I'm not sure why you mention a one year limit?

However, I agree that the way the carnet system is handled for travellers is stupidly expensive and restrictive. Why is it valid for 12 months - why not 24 or 17 or 29 months? That alone cost me an extra £1,000 in having to have two new carnets couriered to me. F'ing stupid numbers on a piece of paper that caused me endless stress and money.

You have a bike though???

It seems easier with a bike - having a 4x4 like me I was clearly told that Kenya wouldn't allow you in without a carnet? Angola wouldn't give me a visa because my carnet would expire when I was going to be in the country (i.e.: I needed one to apply). Saudi would only give me a visa with the carnet etc.

My overall opinion was that it was much easier to have a carnet, but if I did the trip again I wouldn't use one due to the high costs and hassles when it expires.

If a carnet was £50 and valid for 5 years it would be a no brainer.