Smart Travel: Upgrade Your Getaways

Learn the best and worst days to fly for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's, plus when to book to save on airfare.

Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss the best days to fly and book around Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's to help you dodge crowds and save on holiday airfare this year. They break down why airfare has climbed so much in 2026, which travel days could be cheapest or most crowded for each holiday, how far in advance to book domestic and international holiday flights, the cheapest and most newly discounted destinations for holiday travel, and how to put expiring credit card credits to use before the year ends. They also share their favorite festive travel traditions, from Christmas markets in Berlin to a giant Peeps drop on New Year's Eve.

Then, they break down the latest travel headlines, including the American Express Platinum's newly renamed lodging credit and its Airbnb Luxe option, Airbnb's new limits on checkout chores and host fines, Bilt's 2027 program changes, a refresh and higher annual fee for the Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select card, free BlueFirst upgrades for JetBlue Mosaic members, and Hilton's new option to pay with points at checkout.

Join Sally and Meghan November 5th for a night of live Q&A, games (hint: brush up on those obscure travel credit card benefits), and mingling with fellow travelers! The drinks are on us. And yes, there are prizes, courtesy of some of the travel brands you already use. Meet other locals who love traveling with points and miles. RSVP required. Let us know if you’re coming and we’ll save you a spot. https://partiful.com/e/OOSMfQpFw9PPNn4Cat0H

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•

American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits

•

Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card

•

Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards

•

Bilt Palladium Card: Rewards on Housing Are Almost Secondary

•

Bilt Obsidian Card: Fine for Foodies, Complex for Housing

•

Citi AAdvantage Platinum Card Review: Worth the Fee for Airline Loyalists

•

JetBlue Premier Review: $300 Credit, Lounge Access and More

Resources discussed in this episode:

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Travel Inflation Report: October 2026

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The Busiest Travel Days Around Thanksgiving in 2026

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The Best Days to Travel Around Christmas In 2026

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AmEx Adds Airbnb Perks, Restricts Platinum’s $600 Hotel Credit

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Reasonable house rules and requests

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Bilt Improves Bilt Cash, but Keeping 4% Back Takes Action

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American Airlines Revamps Platinum Select Credit Card, Increases Annual Fee to $150

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JetBlue Expands TrueBlue® Benefits for 2027, Bringing Space-Available Upgrades to All Mosaic® Members

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Hilton Becomes First Major Hotel Brand to Offer Digital Solution to Pay with Points

•

What’s the Value of Hilton Points?

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

*The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. They have been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does Southwest's loyalty overhaul mean for the Companion Pass, elite status and credit card earning in 2027?

Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss Southwest's Rapid Rewards overhaul to help you figure out whether the Companion Pass and elite status are still within your reach in 2027. They break down how the Companion Pass becomes a perk of the new Platinum tier, why credit card welcome offers and bonus categories will no longer count toward it, and whether the lower tiers of Southwest elite status offer more than a Southwest credit card. They also cover the new Milestone Rewards and individual Companion Pass trips, international airline partners and other new ways to use points, and a first look at Southwest's upcoming lounges.

Then, they break down the latest travel headlines, including United dropping Premier Qualifying Flights as a way to earn elite status, Delta's refreshed Delta One business class, a dual-earning promo and status challenge from World of Hyatt and Air Canada Aeroplan, and Rove adding JetBlue as a transfer partner.

Join Sally and Meghan for a night of live Q&A, games (hint: brush up on those obscure travel credit card benefits), and mingling with fellow travelers! The drinks are on us. And yes, there are prizes, courtesy of some of the travel brands you already use. Meet other locals who love traveling with points and miles. RSVP required. Let us know if you’re coming and we’ll save you a spot. https://partiful.com/e/OOSMfQpFw9PPNn4Cat0H

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•

Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Review: Modest Perks, Big Bonus

•

Southwest Premier Credit Card Review: The Middle Seat of Cards

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Southwest Priority Card Review: So-So Perks for the Price

•

United Explorer: Richer Rewards, Perks You’ll Actually Use

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Citi AAdvantage Platinum Card Review: Worth the Fee for Airline Loyalists

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Atmos Rewards Summit Card: Perks as Rare as They Are Valuable

Resources discussed in this episode:

•

Southwest to Tie Companion Pass to New Top Tier, Add Perks

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Early Look: Inside Southwest’s Upcoming Lounges

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United Makes Elite Status All About Spending

•

Delta One Upgrades Its Food and Amenities

Want even more expert travel insights and points and miles hacks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

*The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. They have been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how to find award availability for hard-to-book business class flights and hotels using your points and miles to travel.

Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss how to find availability for hard-to-book award flights and hotels to help you get more value from your points and miles when you travel. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including American Express’ plans to open and expand Centurion Lounges in Newark, London, Houston and Philadelphia, American Airlines’ largest-ever Admirals Club lounge coming to Charlotte, expiring credit card transfer bonuses to Marriott Bonvoy, Flying Blue and Japan Airlines, the first-ever Encanto stage show aboard the upcoming Disney Believe cruise ship, Expedia’s 2027 travel trends report, and a reminder to join the waitlist for Smart Travel IRL, the show’s first in-person meetup in New York.

Then, joined by NerdWallet lead travel writer Craig Joseph, they discuss how to land hard-to-get award seats and hotel rooms, with tips and tricks on using award search tools and alerts to catch availability when it opens up, when booking far in advance or close to departure could pay off, and how flexible dates, positioning flights and speculative bookings could help you score aspirational redemptions.

Join Sally and Meghan for a night of live Q&A, games (hint: brush up on those obscure travel credit card benefits), and mingling with fellow travelers! The drinks are on us. And yes, there are prizes, courtesy of some of the travel brands you already use. Meet other locals who love traveling with points and miles. RSVP required. Let us know if you’re coming and we’ll save you a spot. https://partiful.com/e/OOSMfQpFw9PPNn4Cat0H

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•

Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards

•

World of Hyatt Card Review: Lavish Benefits, Reasonable Cost

•

Atmos Rewards Summit Card: Perks as Rare as They Are Valuable

•

American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits

Resources discussed in this episode:

•

Smart Travel IRL: A meetup for travel and credit card nerds

•

American Express Continues to Expand the Centurion Lounge Network with Its Largest Lounge Yet, Further Strengthening its Presence in New York and London

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Premium travel with a touch of southern charm: American announces its largest Admirals Club lounge in Charlotte

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Current Credit Card Transfer Bonuses: October 2026

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Disney Believe Updates: New Disney Cruise Ship Sailing in Late 2027

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Unpack ’27: The Trends in Travel

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Atmos Rewards Adds New Ways to Earn, Plus Seats and Lounges

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First Look: United’s Most Premium Plane With Polaris Studios

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Flagship Suite seats are the new first: American Airlines unveils its premium-configured Boeing 777-300ER

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Bilt Rewards Adds Japan Airlines as a Transfer Partner

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The Best Award Travel Search Tools

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Seats.aero Award Search Review: A Go-To for Expert Travelers

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PointsYeah Award Search Review: A Great Tool for Points Collectors

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Gondola Review: My Favorite Hotel Award Search Tool

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Hyatt’s New Award Chart Raises Points Prices for Most Nights

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Bilt to Reduce Hyatt Transfer Ratio to 4:3 in 2027

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How Much Are Travel Points and Miles Worth in 2026?

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how to use award travel search tools like Seats.aero to find flights you can book with points and miles.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss how to search for award flights across dozens of airline loyalty programs to help you get more value from your credit card points and miles. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including Bilt joining Chase in cutting its World of Hyatt transfer ratio, a new premium IHG card from Chase and changes to the rest of the IHG card lineup, elevated welcome offers on United credit cards, the Lyft app launching in Europe.

Then, joined by Ian Carroll, founder of http://seats.aero, Meghan Coyle discusses how award search tools work and how to find hard-to-get award seats, with tips and tricks on when airlines tend to release award availability, how flexible dates and destinations could unlock better redemptions, and how to weigh taxes and fees and spot phantom availability before you transfer points.

Join Sally and Meghan for a night of live Q&A, games (hint: brush up on those obscure travel credit card benefits), and mingling with fellow travelers! The drinks are on us. And yes, there are prizes, courtesy of some of the travel brands you already use. Meet other locals who love traveling with points and miles. RSVP required. Let us know if you’re coming and we’ll save you a spot. https://partiful.com/e/OOSMfQpFw9PPNn4Cat0H

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•

Dear Bilt Palladium: You’re Welcome to Move in, but You Won’t Pay the Rent

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Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards

•

Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card

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IHG One Rewards Premier Review: Free Nights on a Gold Platter

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IHG One Rewards Card Review: Plentiful Points, No Annual Fee

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IHG One Rewards Premier Business Card: Elite Status and Baller Welcome Bonus

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United Explorer: Richer Rewards, Perks You’ll Actually Use

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United Gateway Card Review: A No-Annual-Fee Ticket to Airline Miles

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United Quest Card: Piles of Perks and Credits, $350 Annual Fee

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United Club Infinite Review: $695 Fee May Still Lure Lounge Lovers

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American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits

Resources discussed in this episode:

•

Smart Travel IRL: A meetup for travel and credit card nerds

•

Bilt to Reduce Hyatt Transfer Ratio to 4:3 in 2027

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Is the New IHG Premium Card Worth Its $350 Fee?

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Best Credit Card Bonuses for New Cardholders

•

Seats.aero Award Search Review: A Go-To for Expert Travelers

•

How to Calculate the Cent-Per-Point Value for Travel Redemptions

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how to book your first flight with points and miles, and how to tell whether an award flight is a good deal.

Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss the basics of booking flights with points and miles to help you turn a stash of rewards into your next trip. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including a new Atmos Rewards option that lets members choose how they earn points, upcoming Bank of America points transfers to Atmos, Bilt adding Amtrak as a transfer partner, a planned Chase Sapphire Lounge in Seattle, a new American Airlines and STARLUX codeshare partnership, and details on Smart Travel IRL, the show's first in-person meetup.

Then, they discuss how beginners can book flights with points and miles, with tips and tricks on figuring out what your points are actually worth, using award search tools to find availability across airlines, and knowing when it could make sense to transfer credit card points to an airline partner.

Enter for a chance to win a $250 Amazon gift card — and help us improve our show — by taking our listener survey! Find the survey and official sweepstakes ruleshere.

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•

Atmos Rewards Business Card Review: More Value for the Most Loyal

Resources discussed in this episode:

•

Atmos Rewards Adds New Ways to Earn, Plus Seats and Lounges

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Bilt Adds Amtrak as a Transfer Partner at a 2:1 Ratio

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Exclusive: Chase Plans A 16,000-Square Foot Sapphire Lounge At Seattle Airport

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American Airlines and STARLUX Airlines launch codeshare partnership to expand trans-Pacific flight options

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Smart Travel IRL: A meetup for travel and credit card nerds

•

How Much Are Travel Points and Miles Worth in 2026?

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Credit Card Transfer Partners At A Glance

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When Chase’s Points Boost Makes Sense For Business Class Flights

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The Best Award Travel Search Tool for 2026

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars?Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. They have been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how to audit a wallet full of credit cards and decide which annual fees are actually worth paying.

Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss how to assess a wallet full of credit cards to help you figure out which ones are actually working for you. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including a doubled hotel credit and a new ad-spend cap on the Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business, fresh offers on the Chase Sapphire Reserve, a Las Vegas hotel and entertainment sale, and a new price-drop alert feature from Going.

Then, joined by listener Tiffany Leung, a small business owner and competitive powerlifter, they discuss how to turn ten open credit cards into one coherent strategy, with tips and tricks on matching bonus categories to the way you really spend, weighing whether an airline card earns its annual fee when your home airport limits your options, and thinking through when closing a card could make sense and when keeping it open could help your credit.

Enter for a chance to win a $250 Amazon gift card — and help us improve our show — by taking our listener survey! Find the survey and official sweepstakes rules here.

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•

Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business Review: Big Perks, Bigger Fee

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Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card

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Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards

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Chase Freedom Flex Review: Multiple Bonus Rewards Wrapped in One Card

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Chase Freedom Unlimited Review: A Potential One-Card Solution

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Chase Ink Business Cash Review: Low Caps, But High Rewards

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Citi Strata Credit Card Review: Solid Rewards for No Annual Fee

•

Costco Anywhere Visa Review: Bulked-Up Savings for Members

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Costco Business Card: Is It Worth It? 5 Key Things to Know

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World of Hyatt Card Review: Lavish Benefits, Reasonable Cost

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United Explorer: Richer Rewards, Perks You'll Actually Use

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Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Review: Modest Perks, Big Bonus

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Capital One Venture Business: New Name, Same Easy Rewards

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Capital One Venture X Business: A Premium Business Travel Card Worth the Annual Fee

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American Express Gold Card Review: Friendly for Foodies, Families

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Bilt Obsidian Card: Fine for Foodies, Complex for Housing

Resources discussed in this episode:

•

Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business Doubles Hotel Credit

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Chase Sapphire Reserve Increases DoorDash Credit, Unveils Travel Offers

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Chase 5% Bonus Categories, Q4 2026: Grocery Stores, Dining, American Red Cross

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Citi Adds Japan Airlines as Its Newest Transfer Partner

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New AmEx Centurion Lounge in Amsterdam Only for Flyers Departing Schengen

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Las Vegas Hotels, Shows, Things to Do, Restaurants, Guides & Maps

•

Sin City on a Budget: 8 Ways To Save on Your Next Trip to Vegas

•

Professional Deal Finder Reveals Truth About Cheap Airfare

•

How to Calculate Your Credit Utilization Ratio

•

How Many Credit Cards Should You Have?

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. They have been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices

All the Hacks podcast host Chris Hutchins reveals his tricks for finding hidden discounts and getting real value out of points and miles — without the headache.

Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss practical strategies for earning and redeeming points and miles to help you book the trips you actually want. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including the refreshed Chase Air Canada Aeroplan card and its higher annual fee, Hyatt ending its American Airlines partnership in favor of Delta, and the limited-time offers Chase rolled out for the Chase Sapphire Reserve's 10th anniversary.

Then, joined by Chris Hutchins, host of the All the Hacks podcast, they discuss how to get real value out of points and miles without turning the hobby into a second job, with tips and tricks on how many rewards cards one person could reasonably carry, why booking an inconvenient award flight early could still land you the itinerary you wanted, and the hidden discounts that could make a cash booking cheaper than an award booking.

Enter for a chance to win a $250 Amazon gift card — and help us improve our show — by taking our listener survey! Find the survey and official sweepstakes rules here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1mEvFsa0x3ZlcHNrebvp3zYoA8UGfATY_MOOzZ_FyAzs/edit

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•

Chase Air Canada Aeroplan Credit Card: You're Permanently Elite

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Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card

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American Express Gold Card Review: Friendly for Foodies, Families

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American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits

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AmEx Business Platinum Card: High Fee Pays Off for Big-Spending Travelers

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Hilton Honors Aspire Review: Rich Rewards, Luxury Perks for a Price

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Southwest Priority Card Review: So-So Perks for the Price

•

5 Things to Know About the Bank of America Premium Rewards Elite Credit Card

Resources discussed in this episode:

•

The Guide to Air Canada Aeroplan

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What Is the Value of Air Canada Aeroplan Points?

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Aeroplan Credit Card Boosts Annual Fee to $195, Adjusts Rewards and Perks

•

Hyatt Is Ditching American Airlines For Delta Partnership

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American Airlines-Hyatt Reciprocal Rewards for Elite Members

•

Chase Enhances DoorDash Perks for Multiple Credit Cards

•

Chase Sapphire Cards: News and Offers

•

The Best Award Travel Search Tool for 2026

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

*The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. They have been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how Bank of America's revamped rewards program could quietly cut how much cardholders earn back.

Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss Bank of America's overhauled BofA Rewards program to help you figure out whether it's still worth keeping money parked with the bank. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including Southwest Airlines' new airport lounges and premium credit card, JetBlue's new BlueFirst domestic first class, a waterpark expansion at Norwegian Cruise Line's private island, and several credit card transfer bonuses.

Then, they discuss the new BofA Rewards tiers, with tips and tricks on how the earning-bonus structure changed, whether the new subscription and lifestyle perks make up for a lower rewards multiplier, and how to decide if it's worth keeping a large balance with Bank of America or moving it elsewhere.

Enter for a chance to win a $250 Amazon gift card — and help us improve our show — by taking our listener survey! Find the survey and official sweepstakes rules here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1mEvFsa0x3ZlcHNrebvp3zYoA8UGfATY_MOOzZ_FyAzs/edit

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•

Bank of America Travel Rewards Review: Easy Rewards for Easy Travel

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Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards Review: Choose Your Own Bonus Category

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Bank of America Unlimited Cash Rewards Review: Decent Rate, Intro APR

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Bank of America Premium Rewards Review: Big Bonuses for B of A's Best Customers

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Delta Reserve Credit Card: $650 Annual Fee, Sky Club Access

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United Club Infinite Review: $695 Fee May Still Lure Lounge Lovers

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Wells Fargo Active Cash Card Review: 2% Cash Back With a Bonus

•

Bilt Palladium Card: Rewards on Housing Are Almost Secondary

•

Chase Freedom Unlimited Review: A Potential One-Card Solution

Resources discussed in this episode:

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See Norwegian Cruise Line’s brand-new Great Tides Waterpark on Instagram (via @SaveWithSally)

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

*The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. They have been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how to earn more restaurant rewards, and whether paying extra for a premium card's dining credit is worth it.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss how to make the most of credit card rewards on restaurant spending to help you eat out for less. But first, producer Tess Vigeland joins Meghan to break down the latest travel headlines, including limited-time welcome offers across Delta and American Express's SkyMiles credit card lineup, an access change at JetBlue's new BlueHouse lounge in Boston, and Google's new AI Mode that can price flights and hotels in points and miles.

Then, they discuss dining rewards, with tips and tricks on choosing the best card for your regular restaurant spending, stacking airline and Bilt dining programs on top of card rewards, and unlocking harder-to-get restaurant reservations through cardholder perks.

Enter for a chance to win a $250 Amazon gift card — and help us improve our show — by taking our listener survey! Find the survey and official sweepstakes rules here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1mEvFsa0x3ZlcHNrebvp3zYoA8UGfATY_MOOzZ_FyAzs/edit

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•

Delta Reserve Credit Card: $650 Annual Fee, Sky Club Access

•

Delta SkyMiles Platinum AmEx Review: One Big Perk Pays the Fee

•

Delta SkyMiles Gold AmEx Review: Pricey for What You Get

•

JetBlue Premier Review: $300 Credit, Lounge Access and More

•

American Express Gold Card Review: Friendly for Foodies, Families

•

Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards

•

Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card

•

Chase Freedom Unlimited Review: A Potential One-Card Solution

•

Citi Strata Elite Review: Premium Perks Can Offset Its Premium Fee

•

Bilt Obsidian Card: Fine for Foodies, Complex for Housing

•

Wells Fargo Autograph Review: Big Rewards, No Annual Fee

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U.S. Bank Altitude Go: 4X Back on Dining, $0 Annual Fee

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Capital One Savor Review: Foodie-Focused Rewards for No Annual Fee

•

American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits

•

Hilton Honors Aspire Review: Rich Rewards, Luxury Perks for a Price

•

Bilt Palladium Card: Rewards on Housing Are Almost Secondary

Resources discussed in this episode:

•

First Look: Inside JetBlue’s BlueHouse Airport Lounge in Boston

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United's A321XLR Will Fly You to Smaller European Cities

•

This Citi Card's Dining Perk Scored Me a Hard-to-Get Table in NYC

•

Video of the new BlueHouse lounge (via Instagram, @SmartTravelPod)

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

*The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. They have been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices

Coupon queen Kiersti Torok reveals how everyday savings on gas, groceries and gift cards can fund your next trip.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French talk to Kiersti Torok — known online as Torok Coupon Hunter — about turning everyday savings from groceries, gas and gift cards into a bigger travel budget. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including Air France and KLM's Flying Blue splitting award tickets into three new pricing tiers, Bilt's new partnership with Equinox, Alaska Airlines' new nonstop routes from Seattle to Athens and Paris, American Airlines' plan to bring back seatback screens fleetwide, and fresh data from Expedia showing this fall's shoulder-season travel deals aren't as deep as usual.

Then, Meghan and Sally jump into Kiersti's world of extreme couponing, covering which cash-back apps (like Rakuten, Ibotta and Fetch) are worth keeping on your phone, how to stack store promotions like Target Circle deals with discounted gift cards, and when buying gift cards for Disney, Southwest and other travel brands can help stretch a vacation budget. They also cover strategies for saving on gas and Kiersti's tips for hacking the Disney dining plan without a full binder of coupons.

Help us plan our next live event! Take our quick survey to let us know where you would be most excited to meet our hosts and fellow listeners: https://forms.gle/BqQz7JR6ThxdgSEY6

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•

American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits

•

Costco Anywhere Visa Review: Bulked-Up Savings for Members

•

Target Circle Credit Card Review: 5% Discount and No Annual Fee

•

Bilt Blue Card: Complex Housing Rewards, Modest Everyday Ones

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Bilt Obsidian Card: Fine for Foodies, Complex for Housing

•

Bilt Palladium Card: Rewards on Housing Are Almost Secondary

Resources discussed in this episode:

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Benefits of the American Express Platinum Card

•

Gondola Review: My Favorite Hotel Award Search Tool

Special Gondola offer: Earn a $50 sign-up bonus in the form of Gondola Cash when you create a Gondola account and make your first hotel or car rental reservation. Sign up for a free account using this link, then make your first hotel or car reservation. (To qualify, the cost before taxes and fees must be greater than $150.) Once your reservation has been completed, $50 in Gondola Cash will be active in your account. Gondola Cash can then be applied to cover the total cost of any hotel available on Gondola. Offer expires Sept. 30, 2026.

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

*The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. They have been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn what six months of confusing changes to Bilt's rewards program have actually meant for cardholders' points.

Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss six months of living with Bilt's revamped rewards program to help you decide whether the housing-focused card still earns its keep. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including an expanded Bilt and BLADE helicopter-booking partnership, big Disney theme park news out of the D23 Expo, new data on which premium credit cards score highest for customer satisfaction, and Amex's Resy dining credit expanding to more restaurants.

Then, joined by fellow Nerd and credit cards writer Craig Joseph, Sally and Meghan discuss their real-world experience with Bilt Rewards 2.0, with tips and tricks on choosing between Bilt's two rewards options for housing payments, deciding whether putting your rent on a rewards card is worth the hassle, and stacking Bilt points with airline and hotel transfer partners.

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•

Bilt Palladium Card: Rewards on Housing Are Almost Secondary

•

Wells Fargo Autograph Review: Big Rewards, No Annual Fee

•

Is the Alaska Atmos Summit Card Worth a $395 Annual Fee?

•

American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits

•

Capital One Venture X Review

•

Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card

•

Delta Reserve Credit Card: $650 Annual Fee, Sky Club Access

•

Hilton AmEx Review: Solid Rewards for No Annual Fee

•

American Express Gold Card Review: Friendly for Foodies, Families

•

Delta SkyMiles Platinum AmEx Review: One Big Perk Pays the Fee

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

*The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. They have been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how to handle a surprise layover and track down a cheap flight to a random destination.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss how to think fast when travel plans go sideways to help you handle curveballs with more confidence. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including new perks tied to Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts' 35th anniversary, American Airlines' plan to change complimentary upgrades on some transcontinental and Hawaii routes starting August 25, and new welcome bonuses on Marriott's Bonvoy Bevy and Brilliant credit cards.

Then, Meghan and Sally share tips and tricks on thinking fast while traveling by facing off in a series of in-studio games. They cover how quickly you can track down a cheap flight to a random destination, what to do when a layover doesn't go as planned, and how well you actually know which perks come with which credit card.

Help us plan our next live event! Take our quick survey to let us know where you would be most excited to meet our hosts and fellow listeners: https://forms.gle/BqQz7JR6ThxdgSEY6

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•

American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits

•

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy American Express Review: Ho-Hum for a High Price

•

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Review: Luxurious Benefits, Price Tag to Match

•

Atmos Rewards Summit Card: Perks as Rare as They Are Valuable

•

Citi Strata Premier: Big Rewards Across Top Spending Categories

•

Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards

•

American Express Gold Card Review: Friendly for Foodies, Families

•

U.S. Bank Altitude Go: 4X Back on Dining, No Annual Fee

•

Bilt Palladium Card: Rewards on Housing Are Almost Secondary

•

Verizon Visa Card Review: Turn Everyday Spending into Cell Savings

•

Citi AAdvantage Executive Review: Your Key to the Club

Resources discussed in this episode:

•

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy, Brilliant Cards Enhance Bonus Offers [Limited Time]

•

American Airlines Upgrades: What You Need to Know

•

How Much Are Travel Points and Miles Worth in 2026?

•

Points Path Review: A Free Tool to Compare Points vs. Cash

•

The Hidden Costs of "Cheap" Countries: What $300 a Day in Madagascar Really Buys You (Smart Travel Episode)

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

*The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. They have been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how to stretch modest points balances into business-class flights, and safer spending abroad.

Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle answer travel questions from listeners to help you make smarter points, transfer and booking decisions. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including Chase Sapphire Lounge's exit from the Priority Pass and LoungeKey networks, Citi and American Airlines' refreshed Executive World Legend Mastercard, Amex Membership Rewards' new transfer partnership with Leading Hotels of the World's Leaders Club, and Citi and Mastercard's expanded Curated Table dining series for Strata Elite cardmembers.

Then, Sally and Meghan open up the mailbag, with tips and tricks on turning a modest Delta points balance into a business-class trip to Italy, deciding whether a Wise account makes sense for a teen's summer abroad, weighing whether to transfer Wyndham points to airline partners, and sorting out how new United MileagePlus earning rules affect which card to use for a flight.

Help us plan our next live event! Take our quick survey to let us know where you would be most excited to meet our hosts and fellow listeners: https://forms.gle/BqQz7JR6ThxdgSEY6

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•

Citi AAdvantage Executive Review: Your Key to the Club

•

Citi Strata Elite Review: Premium Perks Can Offset Its Premium Fee

•

Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card

•

Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business Review: Big Perks, Bigger Fee

•

American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits

•

Capital One Venture X Review: A Steal of a Deal Among Premium Cards

•

Delta SkyMiles Platinum AmEx Review: One Big Perk Pays the Fee

•

United Gateway Card Review: A No-Annual-Fee Ticket to Airline Miles

•

United Club Infinite Review: $695 Fee May Still Lure Lounge Lovers

Resources discussed in this episode:

•

Seats.aero Award Search Review: A Go-To for Expert Travelers

•

The Best Award Travel Search Tool for 2026

•

Wise Money Transfer Review

•

Best No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards of August 2026

•

The Complete Guide to Wyndham Rewards

•

How Much Are Travel Points and Miles Worth in 2026?

•

United Cards Hike Bonuses Up to 110K Miles, Tweak Reward Rates

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn which packing essentials two travel experts swear by, plus how to time your Labor Day trip for fewer crowds.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss the gear they just won’t travel without, to help you pack smarter on your next trip. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including the Seats.aero Chrome extension, an update to the Delta SkyMiles and Starbucks partnership starting August 5, Bilt's August Rent Day promotion offering an ALL Accor status match, how to score free DoubleTree chocolate chip cookies on August 4, and NerdWallet's TSA data on the best and worst days to fly over Labor Day weekend.

Then, Meghan and Sally discuss their top travel items, including why a 2-in-1 backpack could replace your entire bag strategy, what features actually make a crossbody bag pickpocket-proof, how packing cubes and a spare tote solve the overcrowding problem, and why a deck of cards might be the most underrated thing you can pack.

Help us plan our next live event! Take our quick survey to let us know where you would be most excited to meet our hosts and fellow listeners: https://forms.gle/BqQz7JR6ThxdgSEY6

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•

Is a Bilt Credit Card Worth It?

Resources discussed in this episode:

•

Seats.aero Award Search Review: A Go-To for Expert Travelers

•

Points Path Review: A Free Tool to Compare Points vs. Cash

•

The Best Days to Fly Around Labor Day

Select travel essentials shared in this episode:

•

Peak Design Travel Backpack 2-in-1 40L

•

Anti-Theft Crossbody Bags

•

Reusable Grocery Bags

•

USB Charging Cords

•

Universal Travel Adapter

•

Portable Charger Power Bank

•

Copper Cow Coffee Vietnamese Pour Over Variety Pack

•

Individual Drink Packets

•

Ziploc bags

•

Laundry Detergent Tablets

•

Packing Cubes

•

Owala Stainless Steel Water Bottle

•

Melatonin

•

Quest Nutrition Protein Bars

•

BUILT Bar Puff Protein Bars

•

Shop Protein Bars on Amazon

•

Shop Instant Noodles on Amazon

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

*The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. They have been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn what hotel concierges can do for your next stay, from getting free upgrades to saving you money.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French explore what hotel concierges could do for your next stay. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including the opening of the new Chase Sapphire Lounge at Dallas-Fort Worth Airport, a new points-conversion and status-challenge partnership between World of Hyatt and Air Canada's Aeroplan program, and Marriott Bonvoy's expanded partnership with Japan Airlines that could fast-track travelers to Oneworld elite status.

Then, joined by Fredrick Jones, Director of Rooms & Guest Relations at NH Hotel Group, they explore what hotel concierges can realistically do for guests, with tips on whether upgrades without elite status are possible, how to request perks most travelers don't think to ask for, and why a four-star property with a strong concierge desk could rival a five-star experience. They also help listener Sharon figure out how to put 150,000 Chase points to work for a family trip to Hawaii.

Help us plan our next live event! Take our quick survey to let us know where you would be most excited to meet our hosts and fellow listeners: https://forms.gle/BqQz7JR6ThxdgSEY6

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•

Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card

•

Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business Review: Big Perks, Bigger Fee

•

Best Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards of July 2026

Resources discussed in this episode:

•

First Look at the New Dallas Chase Sapphire Lounge

•

Hyatt-Air Canada Partnership Adds Redemptions, Status Challenges

•

PointsYeah Award Search Review: A Great Tool for Points Collectors

•

Points Path Review: A Free Tool to Compare Points vs. Cash

•

Travel Inflation Report: July 2026

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

*The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. They have been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices

*The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. It has been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality.

Is an Alaskan cruise really a trip for everyone — even people who swear they hate cruises?

Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle, recording live in-studio from Scottsdale, Arizona, share dueling trip reports from their own separate Alaska cruises. They cover when to go, how to choose between the big flashy ships and the smaller expedition lines, which ports are worth booking an excursion for — think dog sledding, glacier canoeing and salmon fishing — versus which ones you can skip, whether the balcony upgrade is worth the splurge, and how to avoid getting fleeced by the ship’s gift shop if seasickness strikes.

But first, Sally and Meghan dig into the latest travel news, including Delta's controversial new no-frills business class fare, a big refresh to the Chase Sapphire Reserve dining credit and OpenTable restaurant list, an update to Wells Fargo's travel portal that now includes direct Southwest Airlines booking, and a preview of Holland America's new Christmas markets-and-Baltic Sea sailings.

Help us plan our next live event! Take our quick survey to let us know where you would be most excited to meet our hosts and fellow listeners: https://forms.gle/BqQz7JR6ThxdgSEY6

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•

Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card

•

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Review: Highly Rewarding for Travelers

Resources discussed in this episode:

•

The Best Alaska Cruises

•

Princess Cruises: What to Know Before You Sail

•

Do You Need a Passport for an Alaskan Cruise?

•

7 Tips for Finding Deals on Your Next Cruise

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your flight was canceled. Now what?

Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle share their go-to strategies for beating summer flight delays and cancellations, from booking the first flight of the day to knowing which layovers to avoid. But first, Sally breaks down the latest travel headlines with producer Tess Vigeland (filling in for Meghan), discussing American Airlines' new grab-and-go lounge concept coming to JFK, a preview of Royal Caribbean's massive new Legend of the Seas, and Marriott's decision to end its 34-year partnership with Pepsi in favor of Coca-Cola.

Then, Paul Bernardini, Head of Marketing at Flighty, joins to break down why June and July are historically the worst months to fly, which U.S. and European airlines rack up the most delays, and how the Flighty app tracks your inbound plane 25 hours before it lands — and sometimes lets you know what’s going on with your flight before your own pilot finds out.

They also answer a question from Emily, who wants to know the best business credit card for her partner's restaurant to complement their existing Alaska Airlines cards and boost points toward hotels.

Help us plan our next live event! Take our quick survey to let us know where you would be most excited to meet our hosts and fellow listeners: https://forms.gle/BqQz7JR6ThxdgSEY6

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•

Chase Ink Business Unlimited Review

•

Chase Ink Business Cash Card Review

•

Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card

•

Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards

Resources discussed in this episode:

•

A Guide to JFK Lounges: What to Know

•

Royal Caribbean: The Complete Guide

•

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Got Better — Except for This

•

How to Get Flight Delay Compensation

•

Flighty app

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how ADHD shapes travel decisions, and the strategies that turn travel stress into a strength.

Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss how to make travel less stressful for ADHD brains, with tips to help you avoid lost passports, missed flights and packing mishaps. But first, Sally breaks down the latest travel headlines with producer Tess Vigeland, discussing Wyndham Rewards' overhaul of its award chart, Bilt's new transfer partnership with Preferred Hotels & Resorts' I Prefer program, and the debut of a new Delta One lounge at LAX.

Then, Dr. Andrew Kahn, Associate Director of Expertise and Behavioral Health Innovation at http://understood.org, joins Sally and Meghan to discuss traveling with ADHD, with tips and tricks on managing time blindness at the airport, organizing your bag and routines to avoid sensory overload, and budgeting for trips without overspending.

Help us plan our next live event! Take our quick survey to let us know where you would be most excited to meet our hosts and fellow listeners: https://forms.gle/BqQz7JR6ThxdgSEY6

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•

American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits

•

Is a Bilt Credit Card Worth It?

•

Bilt Blue Card: Complex Housing Rewards, Modest Everyday Ones

•

Bilt Obsidian Card: Fine for Foodies, Complex for Housing

•

Bilt Palladium Card: Rewards on Housing Are Almost Secondary

Resources discussed in this episode:

•

Will Wyndham’s New Award Chart Benefit You? It’s Complicated

•

The Guide to Bilt Transfer Partners

•

New Delta One Lounge at LAX: A Sushi Bar and Sky Deck

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices

Find out which credit cards could turn your wedding costs into a business class honeymoon.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss the best credit cards for wedding expenses and how to use the points you earn to pay for your honeymoon. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including data projecting a record number of Independence Day travelers and which days to avoid (or target) for flying and driving, Sally's preview sailing aboard Royal Caribbean's new Legend of the Seas, the Amex Platinum Saks Fifth Avenue credit disappearing on July 1st, and new data from AirDNA showing nightly average Airbnb prices are now surpassing hotel averages.

Then, they dig into the best credit cards for wedding spending, with tips on how to match a card to your venue type (hotel versus non-hotel), why many vendors won't let you pay by credit card and how to maximize the ones that will, and how to reverse-engineer your honeymoon destination to pick the right points currency. They also answer a question from Jessie, who will be getting married at a Marriott Autograph Hotel, about whether the math works to pay with a Marriott card despite the processing fee.

Help us plan our next live event! Take our quick survey to let us know where you would be most excited to meet our hosts and fellow listeners: https://forms.gle/BqQz7JR6ThxdgSEY6

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•

Citi Double Cash Review: A Solid Choice for Everyday Spending

•

Capital One Venture Review: Easy Earnings, Effortless Redemptions

•

Capital One Venture X Review: A Steal of a Deal Among Premium Cards

•

Bilt Palladium Card: Rewards on Housing Are Almost Secondary

•

Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards Review: Choose Your Own Bonus Category

•

Costco Anywhere Visa Review: Bulked-Up Savings for Members

•

Amazon Prime Visa Review: Perhaps the Ultimate Store Card

•

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy American Express Review: Ho-Hum for a High Price

•

World of Hyatt Card Review: Lavish Benefits, Reasonable Cost

•

Hilton Honors Aspire Review: Rich Rewards, Luxury Perks for a Price

•

Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card

•

American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits

•

American Express Gold Card Review: Friendly for Foodies, Families

Resources discussed in this episode:

•

The Best Days to Fly Around July Fourth

•

BofA Rewards: More Rewards With Every Purchase

•

The Best Travel Credit Card Welcome Offers Right Now

•

7 Stunning All-Inclusives to Book With Points

•

PointsYeah Award Search Review: A Great Tool for Points Collectors

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn what it really costs to honeymoon in one of the world's least-visited countries and how to get there on points.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French share what it actually costs to honeymoon in one of the world's least-visited countries. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including the new Chase Sapphire Preferred benefits that went live June 15th, a full Wyndham Rewards card family refresh that added a brand-new premium card, why airfares are up more than 26% year-over-year amid broader travel price increases, and highlights from AAA's new Five Diamond Hotels list.

Then, they discuss Sally's Madagascar honeymoon from every angle, with tips on whether a group tour could be the right call for destinations with little tourist infrastructure, why countries with the lowest cost of living can be among the most expensive places to visit, and how to score business class seats on Ethiopian Airlines for 80,000 United miles to one of the farthest destinations from San Francisco on earth. They also feature an interview with Madagascar guide Zu Rakuthu Nirina and answer a listener’s question about using 176,000 United miles for flights from SFO to Singapore.

Help us plan our next live event! Take our quick survey to let us know where you would be most excited to meet our hosts and fellow listeners: https://forms.gle/BqQz7JR6ThxdgSEY6

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

•
• Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards
•
• 5 Things to Know About the Wyndham Rewards Earner Business Card
• Wyndham Credit Cards Get a Glow-Up and a New Premium Sibling
•
• Wyndham Rewards Earner Plus Review: Solid Rewards and Perks for Loyalists
•
• Wyndham Rewards Earner Credit Card Review: Ideal for Frugal Travelers

Resources discussed in this episode:

•

PointsYeah Award Search Review: A Great Tool for Points Collectors

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://megaphone.fm/adchoices