The Upgraded Points Podcast

We’re recording this one directly from Universal Orlando Resort, and we brought a giveaway with us! 🎢

Upgraded Points is sending one winner and three guests to Universal Orlando, including the brand-new Universal Epic Universe, with flights, four nights at Universal Terra Luna Resort, and admission to all four parks included. Details on how to enter are below.

Before the main segment, Katie covers the American Express Membership Rewards points to Virgin Atlantic Flying Club 30% transfer bonus running through November 30. Saver seats from New York or Boston to London start at just 6,000 Virgin points one way, meaning you only need to transfer 5,000 Amex points with the bonus to get there.

Then it’s the Hyatt debate. Bilt announced a 4:3 transfer ratio to Hyatt starting January 1, 2027. Combined with Chase’s earlier devaluation and Hyatt’s own award chart changes, has Hyatt lost its crown as the golden child of hotel points? We have thoughts.

Hosts: ‪@chrishassantravelsand ‪@katiegoesthere

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S./D.C., age 18+. Void outside the 50 U.S./D.C. and where prohibited. Sweepstakes starts at 12:00:01 AM ET on 11/02/26; ends at 11:59:59 PM ET on 11/27/26. Total ARV of all prizes: $5,509.72. Odds of winning will depend upon the total number of eligible entries received. Limit: One (1) Entry per person. For full Official Rules, visit https://upgradedpoints.com/news/universal-giveaway-2026/ Sponsor: Upgraded Points, LLC, 1155 Barton Springs Rd., Austin, TX 78704.

Enter for a chance to win a trip to Universal Orlando Resort:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/universal-giveaway-2026/

• (00:00) - The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 82
• (01:26) - Universal Orlando Resort Giveaway
• (03:04) - Amex to Virgin 30% Transfer Bonus
• (05:30) - Bilt and Chase devalued Hyatt Transfer Ratios
• (08:22) - Hyatt Program Changes
• (15:43) - Listener Question: Should I transfer Bilt points to Hyatt before January?

https://upgradedpoints.com/news/gateside-by-tsa-precheck/
✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

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Creators & Guests

• Katie Corrigan Seemann - Host
• Christopher Hassan - Host

Three topics worth your time this week, and a listener question that opens up a real debate.

Chris used the free night certificate from his Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card at the Ritz-Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes against an $850 cash rate, got a last-minute upgrade and 4pm checkout thanks to Platinum status, and shares why a card that is always on the chopping block just earned another year.

He also tried Gameway at JFK, the gaming lounge accessible with Priority Pass, and is already planning to bring his son next time. 🎮

Katie flew Delta Premium Select to and from Athens, shares an honest take on bulkhead versus non-bulkhead premium economy, and opens up a bigger question. Is premium economy actually enough on long-haul flights? And at what point does a complicated itinerary with extra legs just to fly business class become more trouble than it’s worth?

Plus, a listener booked a big Hawaiian vacation with points and wants some feedback…

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card — Full Review [2026]
https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/reviews/marriott-bonvoy-brilliant-american-express-card/

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes [In-Depth Review]
https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/ritz-carlton-orlando-grande-lakes-review/

• (00:00) - The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 81
• (01:21) - Gameway at JFK
• (03:30) - Ritz-Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes
• (11:54) - Delta Premium Select to Athens, Greece
• (16:00) - Business Class to Japan
• (18:02) - Premium Economy vs. Business Class
• (24:52) - Transferring Amex Points to Hilton
• (28:39) - Going All-in

https://upgradedpoints.com/news/gateside-by-tsa-precheck/
✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

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Creators & Guests

• Katie Corrigan Seemann - Host
• Christopher Hassan - Host

Katie just got back from Greece, where she checked out some of Hilton’s latest and greatest properties, and she has thoughts…

But first, we had to pause our Mexico work trip to bring you Southwest’s new announcements because we didn't want to wait until the next episode. New status tiers, Companion Pass changes, a devaluation buried in the FAQ that they did not put in the press release, and the Southwest Icon Lounge name and design details. This is a quick overview with a full dedicated episode coming before the January 1 changes go live.

Then it’s Greece. Katie joined Hilton on a press trip covering three properties across Crete and Athens. The brand new Hilton Chania Old Town has a private in-room sauna and rooftop pool. Casa Delfino is a family-owned SLH property in the heart of old town. And the Conrad Athens with Acropolis views makes for an epic redemption.

Plus, Chris shares a stay at the YOTEL Boston listener question and a sweepstakes winner update worth hearing.

✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com

Southwest Revamps Rapid Rewards Status With New Platinum Tier and Milestone Rewards
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/southwest-rapid-rewards-changes-2027/

Targeted Marriott Offer for 2 Free Nights:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/marriott-bonvoy-targeted-promotions/

Hilton Chania Old Town Resort & Spa Review:
https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/hilton-chania-old-town-resort-spa-review/

Conrad Athens The Ilisian Review:
https://upgradedpoints.com/conrad-athens-the-ilisian-review

• (00:00) - The Upgraded Points Podcast
• (00:40) - Southwest Changes
• (01:10) - YOTEL Boston
• (03:42) - Giveaway Winners
• (05:49) - Hilton Chania Old Town Resort & Spa
• (13:11) - Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa, an SLH Hotel
• (17:40) - Conrad Athens The Ilisian
• (27:08) - Marriott Promotions

https://upgradedpoints.com/news/gateside-by-tsa-precheck/
✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

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Creators & Guests

• Katie Corrigan Seemann - Host
• Christopher Hassan - Host

IHG just refreshed its entire credit card lineup, and there is a lot to unpack.

Before the main segment, Chris shares a quick New York City stay that included two surprisingly strong award redemptions, a La Quinta in Times Square for 30,000 points against a $700 cash rate, and a voco Times Square for 42,000 points at the last minute with rooftop bar access and Times Square views. Plus an Uber Shuttle tip for getting to JFK for $25.

Then it's the main event. IHG launched a brand new premium card at $350 with a 200,000 point welcome offer, overhauled three existing cards with higher annual fees and new benefits, and made one change to the no-fee card that is a significant downgrade. Chris and Katie break down every card, what changed, what stayed the same, and whether the new lineup is worth it.

• (00:00) - The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 79
• (01:07) - La Quinta and voco Times Square
• (03:57) - Uber Shuttle NYC
• (06:00) - IHG One Rewards Premier Select Credit Card
• (12:31) - IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
• (16:16) - IHG One Rewards Credit Card
• (19:13) - IHG One Rewards Business Credit Card
• (22:35) - Listener question: Bilt Cash

IHG Overhauls Chase-Issued Credit Cards: New Names, New Perks, and Higher Annual Fees
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/ihg-credit-card-changes-2026/
Chase and IHG Launch New Premium Card: the IHG One Rewards Premier Select Credit Card
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/chase-launches-ihg-premier-select-credit-card/
Why I’m Keeping My IHG Premier Card and Spending at Least 15K on It
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/ihg-premier-card-why-keep/
How To Earn IHG One Rewards Diamond Elite Status With Credit Card Spend
https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/earn-ihg-diamond-elite-status/
How To Start the Year With up to 50 IHG Elite Night Credits by Holding the Right Credit Cards
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/start-year-50-ihg-elite-nights/https://upgradedpoints.com/news/gateside-by-tsa-precheck/
✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

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Creators & Guests

• Katie Corrigan Seemann - Host
• Christopher Hassan - Host

Most people pack their carry-on the same way every trip and wonder why they always run out of space. In this episode, Chris and Katie share the hacks that actually make a difference, from why packing cubes might be hurting you in your roller bag to how coordinating colors before you pack changes everything.

They cover roller bag strategy, personal item essentials, what to always have accessible on the plane, and the exact bags they are currently traveling with after years of heavy use.

Plus, the new Chase Freedom Flex 5% categories are live for the quarter, and Katie stacks three Hilton card credits on a Conrad Las Vegas stay.

Chapters:
00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 78
01:12 New Freedom Flex Card 5% categories
02:23 Conrad Las Vegas at Resorts World
06:46 Carry-on roller bags
07:17 Packing cubes vs. packing flat
10:56 Travel toiletry bags
12:17 Packing for a winter trip
14:47 Headphones hack
16:16 Charging cords pouch
18:18 The carry-on gear we actually use

New Chase Freedom Flex 5%-7% Bonus Categories [Q4: October to December]
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/chase-freedom-5x-categories/
Conrad Las Vegas Review:
https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/conrad-las-vegas-review/
Monos Carry-On Pro & Monos Checked-In Medium Luggage Review
https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/monos-luggage-review/
Creators & Guests

• Katie Corrigan Seemann - Host
• Christopher Hassan - Host

https://upgradedpoints.com/news/gateside-by-tsa-precheck/
✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

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A lot just happened in the points and miles world. Citi added JAL Mileage Bank as a transfer partner with a 30% bonus through October 24, and it changes the math on how to use ThankYou Points for Japan and Oneworld bookings.

Hyatt officially ended its American Airlines partnership and announced a new one with Delta hours later. Chase Sapphire Reserve anniversary offers are live with up to $350 back on select purchases, some expiring as soon as October 16.

Alaska's Choose How You Earn feature is rolling out ahead of a January 1, 2027, start date. And Apple dropped the iPhone Duo, a foldable phone that folds to the size of a passport, plus AirPods 5 with real-time Live Translation that could change how you travel internationally.

Plus, Katie shares whether the new AA Executive Card vacation credit was actually worth using, and a Chase 10 million points giveaway you can enter right now.

Let’s get into it!

• (00:00) - The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 77
• (02:54) - Using the AA Vacations Portal
• (08:17) - Citi Adds JAL
• (12:22) - New Apple Products for Travelers
• (21:40) - Chase Sapphire Reserve Card 10-year Anniversary
• (24:34) - Chase Sapphire Reserve Improving DoorDash Credits
• (25:10) - Sapphire Reserve for Business Changes
• (26:20) - Alaska Airlines' New Way to Earn Status
• (28:28) - Hyatt Dumps AA, Adds Delta

Our Favorite Travel Features From Apple’s September 2026 Event:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/apple-september-2026-event-travel-features/
Chase Sapphire Reserve 10 Year Anniversary Offers:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/chase-sapphire-reserve-tenth-anniversary-offers/
Hyatt and American Are Ending Partnership:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/american-airlines-hyatt-ending-partnership/
New Hyatt Delta Partnership:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/hyatt-delta-partnership/
Chase Sapphire Reserve Improves DoorDash Credit:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/chase-sapphire-reserve-updates-doordash-credit/
Sapphire Reserve for Business Changes:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/chase-sapphire-reserve-business-card-changes-2026/
Citi Adds JAL as Transfer Partner:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/citi-japan-airlines-transfer-partner/
✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com

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Creators & Guests

• Katie Corrigan Seemann - Host
• Christopher Hassan - Host

With just 3 months left in the year, now is the time to audit every credit card benefit, free night certificate, and elite status threshold before December 31 resets everything. In this episode, Chris and Katie go through the full end-of-year checklist for points travelers.

Annual credits expiring December 31 across Platinum Card® from American Express, Chase Sapphire Reserve®, Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card, Delta cards, Citi, Bilt, and Bank of America. Free night certificates tied to calendar year spend thresholds, hotel and airline elite status qualification deadlines, Southwest Companion Pass, and how to start planning now for a strong 2027.

Plus, Katie reviews the Andaz 5th Avenue in New York, Chris covers the new Gateside by TSA PreCheck, and we answer a listener's question about the best airport strategy for a family of four near EWR.

Creators & Guests

• Katie Corrigan Seemann - Host
• Christopher Hassan - Host

• (00:00) - The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 76
• (01:11) - Gateside by TSA PreCheck
• (03:54) - Andaz 5th Avenue in New York City
• (12:21) - Amex Platinum Card
• (13:07) - Chase Sapphire Reserve
• (14:10) - American Airlines Executive Card
• (16:32) - Hilton Honors credit cards
• (18:18) - Delta credit cards
• (19:17) - Citi credit cards
• (20:13) - Bilt credit cards
• (20:43) - Bank of America credit cards
• (21:02) - Hotel free night certificates
• (22:55) - Southwest Companion Pass
• (24:44) - Listener question

2026 Annual Statement Credits:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/2026-annual-credit-card-statement-credits/
Chase Sapphire Reserve Hotel Credits in 2026:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/chase-sapphire-reserve-hotel-credit-updates-2026/
How to Use the Delta Stays Credits:
https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/amex-delta-gold-platinum-reserve-delta-stays-credit/
New TSA PreCheck Perk: Access Departure Gates Without a Ticket:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/gateside-by-tsa-precheck/
✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com

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Southwest is making some of the biggest moves the airline has seen in years. In this episode, Chris and Katie break down everything that's been announced, starting with Southwest's first-ever airport lounges debuting in late 2027 with at least 11 locations planned. The first four are Austin, Baltimore, Honolulu, and Nashville, and Chase is involved in the development, which means a new premium Southwest credit card is coming alongside them.

They also cover Southwest's growing list of international airline partners, now at 11 total after a new interline agreement with LOT Polish Airlines launched September 1, and what that actually means for booking international itineraries.

Plus, Chris shares his third year at Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando, Katie revisits the Aruba Marriott after its full room renovation, and a listener question about booking flights to Brazil for the FIFA World Cup, with Chris answering from personal experience.

Southwest Airport Lounges Are Coming in 2027:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/southwest-airlines-first-airport-lounges/
Southwest Adds New Airline Partner:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/southwest-airlines-partnership-lot-polish/
Aruba Marriott Resort Review:
https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/aruba-marriott-resort-stellaris-casino-review/
What To Expect at Universal Halloween Horror Nights 2026
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/universal-halloween-horror-nights-2026/
✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com

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Cruises represent one of the most underutilized opportunities in the points and miles world. In this episode, Chris and Katie cover every way to earn more points on cruise bookings, the best credit cards for cruise spend, how to stack points through airline and hotel portals like Chase Travel and AmexTravel.com, and why cruise line credit cards almost never make sense.

Then the big question: can you actually book a cruise with points, and when does it make sense? They break down the value per point across Virgin Voyages, United Cruises, Marriott, and the brand-new Hilton and Explora Journeys partnership. The honest answer might surprise you.

Plus, Chris shares a car rental story that is a reminder to always film your rental before you drive off the lot.

Best Ways to Book Cruises With Points and Miles:
https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/cruises/best-ways-to-book-a-cruise-using-points-and-miles/
✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/cruises/best-ways-to-book-a-cruise-using-points-and-miles/https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/cruises/best-ways-to-book-a-cruise-using-points-and-miles/

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We've been busy. Let’s get caught up together.

Chris and Katie cover a packed stretch of recent travel including Chris’ stay at the InterContinental Boston by IHG, Katie's American Airlines premium economy flights to Barcelona and Rome booked with Alaska Atmos Rewards points, a Kimpton Barcelona stay through Chase The Edit with a tourist tax surprise, a walking tour of Barcelona, a Vespa tour through Rome, and a Sun Princess cruise specifically planned around a solar eclipse that had other ideas.

Along the way, Chris tests CLEAR Concierge for the first time and breaks down who it's actually worth $180 for. And Katie shares a Chase Sapphire Lounge lesson that will save you from getting turned away at the door

Hyatt Regency Rome Delays Opening:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/hyatt-regency-rome-central-delays/
What is CLEAR Concierge Service?:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/clear-plus-new-concierge-service/
Try CLEAR Concierge Free:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/free-clear-concierge-promo-code/
Is American Airlines premium economy worth it?
https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/airlines/american-airlines-premium-economy/
✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com

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Every points traveler has made mistakes. This episode is our honest debrief.

Before the main segment, Katie shares why Chris convinced her to get the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card, how she and her husband both got one on the same day, and why she's already finding it easy to justify the annual fee. Plus, a smart strategy for couples looking to align free night certificates.

Then Chris and Katie go through the points and travel decisions they genuinely regret. Not setting up two-factor authentication and getting an account hacked. Not realizing that points are worth different amounts in different programs. Forgetting about card benefits until it's too late, and so much more

No sugarcoating. Just honest mistakes, real stories, and lessons worth learning before you make them yourself.

How to Use Capital One Shopping:
https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/capital-one-shopping/
$80 Capital One Referral Offer:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/capital-one-shopping-referral/
Hilton Aspire Card Review:
https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/reviews/hilton-honors-american-express-aspire-card/
How I Lost Out on 65k AAdvantage Miles:
https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/how-i-lost-65k-aadvantage-miles/
How I Lost 90k Delta SkyMiles by Not Reading the Fine Print:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/not-eligible-amex-sign-up-bonus/
✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com

📲 Subscribe on YouTube:
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Everyone talks about which cards to get. This episode is about which cards we actually use and why.

Before the main segment, Chris and Katie share their latest travel updates, then conduct a full wallet audit, breaking down every card they carry across eight spending categories: travel and transit, dining and groceries, phone, utilities, internet, streaming, gas, and everything else.

Chris makes the case for keeping the Citi Prestige® Card in 2026, explains why the Platinum Card® from American Express and American Express® Gold Card don't make sense for someone living abroad, and walks through how hotel cards earn their keep beyond just the points.

Katie breaks down her American Express® Business Gold Card setup, why she kept the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card after the Chase Sapphire Reserve® changes, and how she's stacking Loyalty Points on everything else with the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®.

Plus, the case for doing your own annual wallet audit.

Chapters:
00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 71
01:08 Paze
06:20 Travel Cards
11:50 Dining Cards
16:10 Utilities Cards
18:39 Gas & EV Charging

Paze Spend $10 Get $10 Promotion:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/paze-cash-back-promotion/
Best Welcome Offers Right Now:
https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/sign-up-bonuses/
✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

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The AA Executive Card just got a new name, a $100 annual fee increase, and a handful of new benefits. Chris and Katie both carry this card and break down exactly what changed, what's staying the same, what's being cut, and whether the math still works at $695 a year.

Citi and American Airlines Give the AAdvantage Executive Card New Perks and a Higher Annual Fee
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/aadvantage-executive-card-refresh-2026/
✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

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Chase just opened their ninth Sapphire Lounge at Dallas-Fort Worth, and we got an early look before it officially opened. In this episode, Chris and Katie break down everything inside the new DFW lounge, the first whiskey bar in the network, Texas-inspired food, a grab-and-go section, spa access, and a family room with local touches throughout.

Then they zoom out to cover the full Chase Sapphire Lounge network.

After this episode was recorded, changes to the Chase Sapphire Lounge policies were announced. Beginning August 15, 2026, Priority Pass members will no longer have once-per-year complimentary access to Chase Sapphire Lounges. Additionally, beginning on August 15, passengers traveling on same-day layovers can access the lounges within 5 hours of their scheduled departure time. All the details can be found here: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/chase-sapphire-lounges-leaving-priority-pass-loungekey/

Plus, Chris reviews the brand new Kimpton Era Midtown in New York, booked with IHG points, and Katie's passport is finally back.

First Look at the New Chase Sapphire Lounge at DFW Airport:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/chase-sapphire-lounge-dallas-dfw-first-look/
Full List of Chase Sapphire Lounge Locations:
https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/airports/chase-sapphire-lounge-by-the-club/
Save 25% on a Roame Subscription With Code UP25:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/roame-promo-code-save-25/
Why the Chase Sapphire Reserve Card is the Best Lounge Card for Families:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/chase-sapphire-reserve-best-lounge-card-for-families/
✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

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Amex just changed the rules for Centurion Lounge access, and we're breaking it down before diving into the main event. As of July 8, guests must be on the same flight as the cardholder, and layover visits are now capped at 5 hours before departure.

Then it's the Would You Rather: Travel Edition. Business class on a budget airline or economy on Singapore Airlines. Free room upgrade or free breakfast every stay. Perfect weather on every trip or never a flight delay again. 500k Chase points or 500k Hilton points. Chris and Katie go head-to-head across four rounds and don't agree on much.

Plus, Katie shares her lost passport story and exactly what travelers should do if it happens to them.

• (00:00) - The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 68
• (01:07) - Centurion Lounge Access Changes
• (02:58) - Katie’s Lost Passport
• (14:08) - Budget vs. Premium Airline
• (15:37) - Lounge Access or Travel Credit
• (16:50) - 1 Big Trip vs. 4 Small Trips
• (18:23) - Nonstop vs. Connecting
• (19:00) - 500k Points
• (21:02) - Missed flight or Lost Luggage
• (22:48) - First Class
• (25:31) - Upgrade vs. Breakfast
• (27:00) - Location
• (28:50) - Lounge or Line
• (30:18) - Window or Aisle Seat
• (35:53) - Solo Travel vs. Group Travel

How to Replace a Lost Passport:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/replace-lost-passport-before-trip/
Amex Tightens Centurion Lounge Access Rules:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/amex-centurion-lounge-new-entry-rules-2026/

✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

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Elite status sounds glamorous until you do the math. In this episode, Chris and Katie dig into whether airline and hotel elite status is actually worth chasing in 2026, pulling in honest and often conflicting takes from across the Upgraded Points team.

Lori makes the case for low-level Oneworld status abroad. Ryan thinks most airline status is overrated. Ben says it depends on your situation. Jamie says status isn't worth it until it really is.

Plus, a giveaway winner shares how a Hilton Be My Guest certificate landed her a room at the newly renovated Waldorf Astoria New York with a cash value of $4,200 for one night.

• (00:00) - The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 67
• (01:23) - Chris Broke a Millennial Stereotype
• (03:59) - Hotel Distil in Louisville
• (07:20) - 1-Year-Anniversary Giveaway Winner
• (10:51) - Is Airline Elite Status Worth It?
• (18:07) - Is Hotel Elite Status Worth It?
• (27:30) - Listener Question

UP Team’s Mid-Year Elite Status Update:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/up-team-elite-status-updates-2026/
✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

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Most U.S. travelers are familiar with Virgin Atlantic but have no idea what Virgin Red actually is or how it connects to the broader Virgin ecosystem. This episode fixes that.

Katie sat down with Andrea Burchett, Chief Loyalty Officer at Virgin Group, for a deep dive into the program that ties Virgin Atlantic, Virgin Voyages, and Virgin Hotels all together under one points currency. Virgin Red's inaugural Points Index report found that 77% of members used points to book a vacation they otherwise wouldn't have taken, and redemptions jumped 18% year over year. So the program is clearly doing something right.

They cover how Virgin Red points work, what the Points Index data actually reveals about how Americans are using their points, the underrated experience platform, the future of Virgin Hotels, and why a U.S. traveler who has never touched the Virgin ecosystem should seriously consider it.

Repeated Delays at Hyatt Regency Rome Central Leave Travelers Scrambling — Again
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/hyatt-regency-rome-central-delays/
How to Redeem Virgin Atlantic Flying Club Points:
https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/airlines/how-to-redeem-virgin-atlantic-miles/
Virgin Red Loyalty Program Review:
https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/virgin-red-loyalty-program-review/
✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com

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Hawaii is one of the most rewarding points destinations out there, but hotel prices vary wildly depending on which island you're on and where you stay. In this episode, Chris and Katie go island by island through Maui, Kauai, the Big Island, and Oahu, breaking down the best steal and splurge hotel options at each one with real cash prices and current points costs.

From the Hampton Inn Maui North Shore at 65,000 Hilton points to the Grand Wailea Waldorf Astoria at 110,000, the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort at under $500 a night to the Grand Hyatt Kauai, the Fairmont Orchid on the Big Island, and everything in between on Oahu, including the Hyatt Place Waikiki, Hilton Hawaiian Village, and the Ritz-Carlton Turtle Bay.

Plus Bilt Rewards just added Preferred Hotels and Resorts as a transfer partner at a 1:2 ratio, and Chris shares his take on the new Universal Kids Resort.

• (00:00) - The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 65
• (01:12) - Universal Kids Resort
• (04:59) - New Bilt Transfer Partner
• (06:04) - Wyndham Award Chart Expansion
• (10:05) - Maui hotels
• (15:13) - Kauai hotels
• (21:09) - The Big Island hotels
• (25:02) - Oahu hotels
• (33:10) - Listener Question

Universal Kids Resort:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/first-look-universal-kids-resort/
Bilt Adds Preferred Hotels:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/bilt-rewards-adds-preferred-hotels-transfer-partner/
Wyndham Expands Award Chart:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/wyndham-rewards-adding-fourth-award-tier/
Family Vacation in Hawaii on Points:
https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hawaii-family-vacation-points-miles/
Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort:
https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/hyatt-regency-waikiki-review/
Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort:
https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/grand-wailea-waldorf-astoria-resort-whats-new-review/
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort:
https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/hyatt-regency-maui-resort-spa-review/
Hilton Hawaiian Village:
https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/hilton-hawaiian-village-waikiki-beach-resort-review/
Hilton Waikoloa Village:
https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/hilton-waikoloa-village-review/
Andaz Maui:
https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/andaz-maui-at-wailea-resort-review/
How I Choose Which Hyatt Hotel To Book in Honolulu [Comparing Points, Amenities, Location]
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/comparing-hyatt-hotels-waikiki/
✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

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Booking your first international award flight feels overwhelming until you understand the process. In this episode, Chris and Katie break it down into 4 repeatable steps that work every time, regardless of which airline you're flying, which points program you're using, or which cabin you're booking.

Before the main segment, Chris shares how moving to Brazil 16 years ago got him into points and miles, and Katie talks about one of her first big international redemptions, a round-trip to Tanzania and Kenya on Ethiopian Airlines business class for 176,000 United miles and just $78 in taxes and fees.

Then it's the four-step process, plus a listener question about whether Hilton Honors points are actually worth it for a casual hotel guest.

• (00:00) - The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 64
• (01:11) - Origin Story
• (08:44) - Step 1
• (10:14) - Step 2
• (13:08) - Step 3
• (14:19) - Step 4
• (18:29) - Listener Question

Best Current Welcome Offers:
https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/sign-up-bonuses/
Beginner’s Guide to Points and Miles:
https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/beginners/
Best Points and Miles Tools:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/points-and-miles-tools-expert-recommendations/
✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com

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The Chase Sapphire Preferred just launched a 100,000-point welcome offer, and we're showing you exactly what to do with it. Chris and Katie walk through 6 real trip examples built around 100,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points, with real redemption rates, real flights, and real hotels, so you can go book it yourself.

Hawaii on Southwest with Hyatt nights in Waikiki. Walt Disney World at a Deluxe hotel. A Caribbean getaway at the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar in Puerto Rico. An all-inclusive in Puerto Vallarta. Four nights in Panama City. City escapes to Chicago and Denver. Brazil in business class via Virgin Atlantic. And an ANA business class trip to Japan.

If you just applied for the Chase Sapphire Preferred or you're sitting on a big stash of Ultimate Rewards points, this episode is for you.

• (00:00) - The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 63
• (01:15) - Hilton Honors Sale
• (03:19) - Alaska Airlines Fees
• (07:30) - Chase 100K Bonus
• (08:18) - Hawaii
• (11:40) - Disney World
• (14:08) - Caribbean or Central America
• (18:47) - Brazil
• (20:35) - City Escapes
• (23:33) - Japan

Chase Sapphire Preferred 2026 Changes:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/chase-sapphire-preferred-changes-2026/
Chase Devalues World of Hyatt Transfer Ratio for Sapphire Preferred and Ink Business Preferred Cardholders:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/chase-devalues-hyatt-transfer-ratio-some-cardholders/
Buy Hilton Points With a 100% Bonus:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/buy-hilton-honors-points/
Alaska Airlines Is Raising Partner Booking Fees:
https://upgradedpoints.com/news/alaska-airlines-partner-fee-increase-2026/
✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/

📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com

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