I was trying to stay away from story quests and do nothing but side quest/exploration. This is no feat, but I hit 36 before I played chapter 4 and fought the Titan. Then I lost my car, YOU kidding me?!? Big hint for gamers, complete the chocobo quest BEFORE chapter 4. Makes things easier.
Edit: [spoiler]Found MP3, and got my car back, sneaking around was fun.[/spoiler]
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Lol. I was wondering if people didn't unlock chocobos before that. That would be tons of walking and really drag the game out. I've seen reports of people crashing the Regalia in the end game. Would rage.