87. Points & Miles Mistakes: Learn from Our Goofs

Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad

#Society #Travel #Podcasting Education #Alex, Pam and Jess #Travel Hacking Mom: Travel on Credit Card Points

21:04

Step into the mysterious and visually stunning world of The Electric State as host Francesca Amiker takes you behind the scenes with the creative masterminds who brought Simon Stålenhag’s dystopian vision to life. In this premiere episode, directors Joe and Anthony Russo, stars Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt, writers Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, and producers Angela Russo-Otstot and Chris Castaldi reveal how they transformed a haunting graphic novel into an epic cinematic experience. Watch The Electric State coming to Netflix on March 14th. Check out more from Netflix Podcasts . State Secrets: Inside the Making of The Electric State is produced by Netflix and Treefort Media.…

for ca. et år siden 46:07

MP3•Episode hjem

Welcome back to another episode with the Travel Mom Squad! Today, we're pulling back the curtain on our own points and miles blunders. Yes, even the pros goof up sometimes! We’re sharing our mishaps not just to entertain you (though some of these stories are pretty amusing), but to help you learn from our experiences so you can navigate the points and miles world more smoothly.

Real Mistakes from Real Travelers

First up, Alex talks about the time she accidentally set her credit card payment to the minimum due instead of the full statement balance. It’s a simple checkbox mistake that led to unnecessary interest charges. It’s a crucial reminder to double-check your autopay settings, ensuring you’re not paying more than you should.

Pam, often nicknamed 'Quick Start Pam,' dives into several of her own memorable mistakes, from overlooking important details like the Chase 5/24 rule to booking a hotel for the wrong date. She highlights the importance of slowing down and double-checking every detail, especially when dealing with bookings across different time zones.

Learning the Hard Way

Hear about Jess’s adventure of nearly leaving her companion behind on a flight to Costa Rica because she delayed adding a companion to her Southwest flight. This story underscores the importance of managing travel bookings proactively, especially when using features like the Southwest Companion Pass.

Takeaways to Make You a Better Traveler

Through these tales, we underline a universal truth: mistakes happen, but they don’t have to define your travel experience. With each slip-up, we’ve learned valuable lessons about paying attention to details, the importance of confirmation checks, and the benefits of being meticulously organized.

Don’t Let Errors Discourage You

In closing, remember that every error provides a chance to learn and improve. Whether it's setting up payment reminders or thoroughly reviewing your travel itineraries, these lessons are priceless for making your future travel both smoother and more rewarding.

So, ready to learn from our faux pas and make your points and miles journey foolproof? Hit play to dive into the full episode for all the juicy details and key tips to keep you savvy on the road!

Links:

Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad

Episode Minute By Minute:

0:00 - Kickoff: We dive into why even seasoned travelers like us still make mistakes with points and miles.
1:15 - Alex's Autopay Alert: Hear how a simple checkbox error cost Alex more than just money.
3:30 - Pam's Planning Pitfalls: Discover the chain reaction of errors that started with one rushed decision.
6:00 - Jess's Companion Pass Cautionary Tale: A nearly disastrous oversight with the Southwest Companion Pass—avoid this at your next booking!
8:25 - Lessons Learned: We share key strategies to prevent these common errors in your travels.
10:45 - Wrap-Up: Summing up our stories with a reminder of how each mistake has a lesson and encouraging listeners to share their own blunders.

125 episoder

87. Points & Miles Mistakes: Learn from Our Goofs

Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad

23 subscribers

published for ca. et år siden

Del

MP3•Episode hjem

Real Mistakes from Real Travelers

Learning the Hard Way

Takeaways to Make You a Better Traveler

Don’t Let Errors Discourage You

So, ready to learn from our faux pas and make your points and miles journey foolproof? Hit play to dive into the full episode for all the juicy details and key tips to keep you savvy on the road!

Links:

Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad

Episode Minute By Minute:

0:00 - Kickoff: We dive into why even seasoned travelers like us still make mistakes with points and miles.
1:15 - Alex's Autopay Alert: Hear how a simple checkbox error cost Alex more than just money.
3:30 - Pam's Planning Pitfalls: Discover the chain reaction of errors that started with one rushed decision.
6:00 - Jess's Companion Pass Cautionary Tale: A nearly disastrous oversight with the Southwest Companion Pass—avoid this at your next booking!
8:25 - Lessons Learned: We share key strategies to prevent these common errors in your travels.
10:45 - Wrap-Up: Summing up our stories with a reminder of how each mistake has a lesson and encouraging listeners to share their own blunders.

125 episoder

#Society #Travel #Podcasting Education #Alex, Pam and Jess #Travel Hacking Mom: Travel on Credit Card Points

Alle episoder

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124. All About the IHG Hotel Program 31:26

for 2 dage siden31:26

31:26

In this episode, we’re diving deep into IHG One Rewards—a hotel program that often flies under the radar but has serious potential. From practical Holiday Inns to luxury Kimptons and InterContinentals, we’re sharing our experiences using IHG points and free-night awards, how we earn them, and why buying IHG points (yes, buying!) can actually be a smart move. What Even Is IHG? Before diving into points and miles, most of us didn’t even know IHG was the brand behind properties like Holiday Inn, Candlewood Suites, Kimpton, Hotel Indigo, and InterContinental. Jess shares how she earned free IHG stays back in the day by mailing in 90 index cards, and Pam tells how she thought Crowne Plazas were the height of luxury before she knew the full IHG lineup. IHG Credit Cards: What to Know Alex breaks down the three different IHG credit card options and how their benefits stack up so you can decide which one might work best for you. She also outlines two of the unique benefits that make two of these cards a great deal: getting a fourth night free on award stays and earning free-night certificates you can top up. Buying IHG Points Can Actually Make Sense Pam shares why she regularly buys IHG points—especially during 100% bonus sales—for heavily discounted stays at high-end IHG properties. She calls it a “no-brainer,” and Jess agrees—IHG is one of the only programs where buying points often makes sense. Where We’ve Used IHG Points and Awards From a Kimpton in Barcelona, to airport Holiday Inns, to a Crowne Plaza in Bruges, we share how we’ve stretched our points and free-night certificates. Jess highlights how easy it is to top off a 40k free-night certificate online, and Alex reminds everyone about the best ways to book longer stays for couples. We also discuss: IHG status levels Using certificates online (a breeze!) The IHG brands we love most Our dream stays: Six Senses, Kimpton in Sydney, and Hotel Indigo Galápagos Links: All About IHG Credit Cards: All About IHG Credit Cards - Travel Mom Squad - https://travelmomsquad.com/ihg-revamps-credit-cards Purchasing IHG Points: Does It Make Sense? Purchasing IHG Points: Does It Make Sense? - Travel Mom Squad - https://travelmomsquad.com/purchasing-ihg-points-does-it-make-sense/ Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Our intro to IHG 03:00 – What cards we’ve had and what we recommend 06:45 – The best perks and status levels with IHG cards 09:30 – Why we buy IHG points (and how it saves $$$) 13:30 – Free-night certificates and how to use them wisely 18:00 – Where we’ve stayed using IHG points and awards 21:00 – The brands we love: Kimpton, Indigo, InterContinental 26:00 – Favorite past stays + the IHG hotels we want to try next If you’ve been sleeping on IHG, take another look. Whether you’re after practical one-night stays or a luxury resort getaway, there’s more value here than you think. 🎧 Tune in now and start planning your next points-powered stay.…

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123. Behind the Magic—Ways to Save at Disney World This Summer 52:29

for 9 dage siden52:29

52:29

In this episode, Jess and Alex are sharing all the magic, insights, and travel tips they brought back from a recent media event at Walt Disney World. From exclusive behind-the-scenes tours to exciting new ticket and resort updates, they’re joined by Megan—Travel Mom Squad’s Disney expert—to talk about how to make a Disney trip more affordable, less stressful, and extra special using points and miles. What’s New at Disney World? Big Updates & Summer Deals During the media event, Jess and Alex sat in on a panel with Disney execs and Imagineers who revealed upcoming changes and summer promotions—like 50% off tickets for kids (ages 3–9) and free dining plans for guests booking resort packages. They also shared how Disney is working to simplify the experience, with improvements to the Lightning Lane system and new family-focused resort programming. Why Staying On-Property Might Be the Best Deal One of the biggest takeaways? Staying at a Disney resort may cost less than you think—especially when you consider perks like free transportation, early park access, and even character visits right in the hotel. The team shares highlights from a private resort tour, including a peek at value resorts like Art of Animation (with family suites for six!), the moderate Coronado Springs, and the deluxe Boardwalk Inn. Megan also breaks down recent stays at the Swan and Dolphin, All-Star Music, and off-property Hyatts—and why she’s team Disney all the way. Making Disney More Affordable with Points & Miles Jess, Alex, and Megan walk through the credit cards they recommend for offsetting the cost of Disney, including the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card for erasing ticket purchases and American Express® Gold Card for dining. They also explain how to book hotels using points for on-site stays. Park Tips, Lightning Lanes & Planning Strategies From early-entry tips to the best times to ride Peter Pan (hint: before 9am), this episode is packed with practical Disney advice. Megan also shares how she used the Southwest® Companion Pass to cut flight costs and why her family skipped Lightning Lanes altogether on some trips. Planning a Disney trip this summer? This episode is packed with what you really need to know—straight from the Travel Mom Squad’s latest Disney adventure. Hit play or share it with a Disney-loving friend! 🎢🏰✨ Overwhelmed at the thought of planning your own Disney vacation? Travel Mom Squad has partnered with Mouse Counselors , an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, to help community members maximize their Disney and travel experiences! Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Disney Offers: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/special-offers Get Away Today affiliate link: Get Away Today - Discount Disney Vacations & Beyond Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: https://travelmomsquad.com/capital-one-venture-rewards-credit-card Cash-Back Card: https://travelmomsquad.com/cibpremier Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Behind-the-scenes insights from Disney’s media event 08:00 – Major summer deals: 50% off kids’ tickets & dining plan updates 14:00 – Disney resorts overview: value, moderate, and deluxe picks 30:00 – Megan shares on-property vs. off-property comparisons 40:00 – Tips for early entry, Lightning Lanes, and maximizing park time 45:00 – Using points and credit cards to make Disney more affordable 51:00 – Final thoughts and favorite takeaways…

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122. Pam's Trip to New Zealand Using Points and Miles 41:52

for 16 dage siden41:52

41:52

New Zealand has been high on so many of your travel wish lists—and for good reason! In this episode, Pam shares details from her recent two-week adventure on the North Island of New Zealand, including how she booked business-class flights, multiple free hotel nights, and even covered rental cars and excursions—all using points and miles (and one fortuitous mistake fare). From kayaking Cathedral Cove to digging out hot tubs at Hot Water Beach, it’s a trip full of unforgettable experiences and major travel inspiration. Finding Flights to New Zealand: A Challenge (and a Win!) Getting to New Zealand in business class is no easy feat, but Pam pulled it off. After struggling to find availability, she scored two one-way business-class award tickets from Dallas to Auckland. The return flight was a mistake fare in United Polaris for just $1,000 cash (normally $3,800+). Points-Powered Luxury: Park Hyatt Auckland & More Pam raved about the Park Hyatt Auckland, calling it one of her favorite Park Hyatts ever. For just 25,000 Hyatt points per night, she enjoyed stunning views of the harbor, incredible Globalist breakfast, and unbeatable service. She also used Capital One Venture X credits to cover stays at boutique resorts. The Itinerary: Coastal Drives, Kayaks, and Tiny Houses Bay of Islands: Booked via Capital One credits, with a scenic boat tour to Hole in the Rock Cathedral Cove: Kayaking through crystal-clear waters to one of New Zealand’s most famous spots Hot Water Beach: Digging hot tubs in naturally heated sand Rotorua & Lake Taupo: Rafting a 21-foot waterfall, visiting Maori villages, and relaxing in Hilton luxury Bonus Stay: A tiny house Airbnb—Pam’s dream come true! The Total Cost Breakdown Using a mix of points, miles, Capital One credits, and cash, Pam calculated her total out-of-pocket costs at around $3,000—a fraction of the $28,000+ retail value for flights and hotels. With ten nights of free hotel stays, complimentary breakfasts, and first-class flight experiences, it was an unforgettable journey made possible by smart planning and strategic redemptions. Links: How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free - https://travelmomsquad.lpages.co/freevacation Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Why Pam did New Zealand: Take 2 03:00 – Booking flights with AA miles and a United mistake fare 08:30 – Pam’s advice for finding flights to New Zealand 13:00 – Park Hyatt Auckland + Waiheke Island day trip 18:00 – Bay of Islands and boutique hotel stay 21:00 – Tiny house stay and Cathedral Cove 26:00 – Rafting a waterfall and Maori village experience 31:00 – Hilton Lake Taupo and relaxing 35:00 – Flying United Polaris home + final night at Grand Hyatt DFW 38:00 – Cost recap and final thoughts on why Pam can’t wait to return Thinking about a trip to New Zealand? This episode will show you it’s totally possible with points and miles—and that even Grandma can conquer a 21-foot waterfall! 🛶🌿✈️…

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121. Top 3 Ways to Use Each Flexible Points Currency 40:36

for 23 dage siden40:36

40:36

Not sure how to maximize your points? In this episode, we break down the top three ways to use each of the four major flexible points currencies—our favorite points currency (IYKYK), American Express Membership Rewards®, Capital One Venture Miles, and Citi ThankYou® Points—so you can book travel smarter. Our favorite points: Best for Hyatt & Flights It's easy to see why our favorite kind of points are just that! They're a gold mine for Hyatt stays, which offer the best value per point. Transfers to United Airlines can be great for international flights, and Flying Blue (Air France/KLM) often has solid award deals to Europe. ✔️ Top 3 Uses: Hyatt transfers – Best hotel value in points & miles United Airlines – Easy redemptions for family travel Flying Blue transfers – Discounted flights to Europe Capital One Venture Miles: Airline Sweet Spots & Simple Redemptions Capital One has grown into a top travel program. Air Canada Aeroplan and Turkish Airlines have some nice redemtpion sweet spots, and using Venture Miles to get a statement credit (often referred to as a "purchase eraser") for travel purchases gives you incredible flexibility. ✔️ Top 3 Uses: Air Canada Aeroplan – Great for international flights Turkish Airlines – Cheap flights to Hawaii & Europe Purchase Eraser – Easiest way to redeem miles American Express Membership Rewards®: Best for Bonuses & Luxury Travel Amex regularly offers transfer bonuses, making points stretch further. British Airways is great for booking American Airlines flights, Flying Blue offers discounted business-class redemptions, and Hilton transfers shine for aspirational stays. ✔️ Top 3 Uses: British Airways for AA/Iberia flights – Cheap awards to Europe Flying Blue transfers – Business-class deals to Paris Hilton transfers – High-end redemptions like Conrad Bora Bora Citi ThankYou® Points: Hidden Gems & Future AA Transfers Citi’s best partners include Turkish Airlines, Choice Hotels, and Avianca LifeMiles. American Airlines transfers coming in 2026 make Citi even more exciting! ✔️ Top 3 Uses: Turkish Airlines – Best deal for United flights to Hawaii Choice Hotels – 1:2 transfers for premium stays Avianca LifeMiles – Cheap business-class tickets Final Thoughts: Which Points Currency Is Best? Each program has its strengths! One dominates for Hyatt, American Express is best for transfer bonuses, Capital One shines with easy redemptions, and Citi has exciting future potential. Not sure where to start? Hit play now for all the details and our best strategies! Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Transfer Partner Cheat Sheet: Transfer Partner & Airline Alliance Master List - https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/transfer-partners Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Why flexible points are so valuable 02:00 – Our favorite points: Best ways to redeem for hotels & flights 06:45 – Capital One: Airline sweet spots & easy redemptions 12:30 – American Express: Transfer bonuses & luxury redemptions 20:00 – Citi: Hidden gems & the future of AA transfers 26:00 – Final thoughts & which program fits your travel goals Ready to make the most of your points? Listen to the full episode now and start booking smarter! 🚀✈️…

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120. How Megan Used Points & Miles for the Ultimate Harry Potter Family Trip 43:17

for 4 weeks siden43:17

43:17

What’s better than throwing a Harry Potter-themed birthday party? How about taking your child on a real Harry Potter adventure across Scotland and London! That’s exactly what Megan did for her daughter’s 10th birthday—making the magic come alive with points and miles. In this episode, Megan explains how she made this trip happen for her family of five—and how using points made it more affordable than a trip to Universal Studios! Flying to Scotland on Points Megan and her family started their journey with flights on KLM Flying Blue, taking advantage of the 25% discount for kids under 12. Because they were able to book five economy tickets for just 85,000 points plus taxes/fees, they were able to splurge some on an upgrade to premium economy at check-in. Add in Priority Pass lounge access during their layover (thanks, credit card benefits!) and the whole experience got even better. Exploring Scotland: The Highlands & Harry Potter Locations After landing in Edinburgh, Megan and her family hit the road to explore Scotland’s most famous sights—including key Harry Potter filming locations at Glencoe, Glenfinnan Viaduct, and Loch Shiel. From Scotland to London: Train Travel & Harry Potter Studio Tour After road-tripping through Scotland, the family took the train from Edinburgh to London, booking first-class seats for extra space and lounge access. London's Harry Potter Activities! Megan’s family visited: King’s Cross Station (Platform 9 ¾) – A must for any fan. Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour – The ultimate experience, where her daughter got to open the doors to the Hogwarts Great Hall because it was her birthday! They spent over five hours exploring movie sets, props, and magical effects. London on Points: Hyatt Regency Blackfriars & The Cursed Child Play For accommodations, used Hyatt points and the Hyatt Family Plan Rate, getting four nights at the Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars for: ✅ 77,000 points for one room ✅ $700 total for the second room The hotel's location meant Megan's family got free wristbands allowing access to the prime areas for watching New Year's Eve fireworks over Big Ben and the London Eye! To top off their trip, they saw Harry Potter and the Cursed Child—a six-hour theater experience that still had the kids completely engaged. Find out what blew Megan away and why going to the play in London is worth traveling for. Links For This Episode: Pam’s Hotel Upgrade Template: Hotel Upgrade Form: https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/hotel-upgrade Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Meet Megan and hear about how this trip came together 02:00 – Booking flights on KLM 06:15 – Harry Potter sites in Scotland 12:30 – Train to London 17:00 – Platform 9 ¾ & the Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour 25:45 – Staying at Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars 33:00 – Seeing The Cursed Child play 40:00 – Final thoughts and Megan’s tips If you’ve ever wanted to take your family on a magical, unforgettable trip, this episode is for you!…

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119. Sexy vs. Unsexy Award Redemptions 22:09

for 5 weeks siden22:09

22:09

We all love talking about luxurious, over-the-top award redemptions—think first-class flights, overwater villas, and five-star resorts. But let’s be real—some of the best uses of points and miles are not Instagram-worthy. In this episode, we break down the difference between sexy and unsexy redemptions, why both are important, and how they each play a role in maximizing your points strategy. What Makes a Redemption “Sexy”? Pam kicks things off with her signature philosophy: “A sexy redemption is a Pam redemption.” For her, that means business-class flights on international routes and stays at luxury hotels. But she also reminds us that sexy is subjective—a Southwest flight to Hawaii can absolutely be a dream-worthy redemption for a family! Jess adds that she aspires to make every redemption as “Pam-level” as possible, but admits that her first year of points and miles was entirely unsexy. Unsexy Redemptions: The Unsung Heroes of Travel Not every redemption is flashy, but that doesn’t mean it’s not valuable. Alex shares how some of her best redemptions have been for things like: Flying last-minute for a wedding, funeral, or family emergency Booking budget-friendly Hyatt Place stays for soccer tournaments Using airport hotels for positioning flights to avoid travel disruptions Staying in hotels during home renovations or natural disasters While they may not be glamorous, these redemptions save real money and make everyday travel easier. As Pam puts it, “If you can cover an ‘unsexy’ expense with points and it costs you nothing, that’s actually pretty sexy.” Our Favorite Sexy and Unsexy Redemptions Each of us shares a mix of redemptions that stand out: Jess: Emirates first class with an onboard shower and champagne (sexy!) vs. Hyatt stays during a Houston freeze and power outage (unsexy but a lifesaver). Alex: A Maldives overwater villa + Qatar Qsuite flights (sexy!) vs. a last-minute flight to care for her sister after surgery (not glamorous, but necessary). Pam: Business class Singapore Airlines flights to Thailand + Ritz-Carlton stays (sexy!) vs. booking a flight to London during COVID for a hospitalized grandchild (priceless). Why Every Redemption Has Value At the end of the day, points and miles are a tool for travel freedom—whether that means luxury vacations, practical family trips, or unexpected emergencies. As Jess reminds us, “No redemption is a bad redemption if it saves you money and makes your life easier.” Whether you’re dreaming of first-class flights or just want to avoid paying cash for a last-minute family trip, this episode will help you make the most of your points—sexy or not! Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Jess’s Emirates first class reel: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CtPGqi2gKvI/?igsh=dzZrOXp2NnA1djhw Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – What is a “sexy” vs. “unsexy” award redemption? 01:40 – Pam’s philosophy: Why luxury redemptions are her go-to 07:00 – Alex’s take: Why family travel means balancing both 15:30 – Unsexy redemptions: Why they’re just as valuable 22:45 – Our best (and worst) redemption stories 30:00 – Why no redemption is a bad redemption…

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118. Going For the Gold or Picking Up Platinum: All About American Express Cards 41:40

for 6 weeks siden41:40

41:40

If you've been eyeing an American Express card but aren’t sure which one to get, you’re in the right place! In this episode, we break down two great personal cards—the American Express® Gold Card and The Platinum Card® from American Express—and two great business cards—the American Express® Business Gold Card and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express. These powerhouse cards are key for earning American Express Membership Rewards®. We share our personal experiences with these cards, favorite card benefits, and what we’d recommend for anyone looking to maximize their points-and-miles strategy. First, the Personal Card Breakdown The American Express® Gold Card: The Food Lover’s Dream Card Pam kicks things off by sharing why the American Express® Gold Card has been a staple in her wallet for years and how the benefits this card offers are amazing for foodies. The Platinum Card® from American Express: Travel Perks Galore The Platinum Card® from American Express isn’t just a credit card; it’s a travel lifestyle. If you're a frequent traveler, this card's benefits can come in clutch. Up Next: Two Great Business Cards American Express® Business Gold Card: Small-Business Winner This card is perfect if you want flexible spending-category bonuses and great perks for small businesses (including office-supply stores). The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: Even More Travel Perks A great go-to card for cell-phone insurance coverage & statement credits, plus travel benefits like lounge access a new Hilton credit. Credits & Perks: Jess breaks down the key differences between all the perks and credits, and whether they might make sense for you. As Alex puts it, "Don't let the credits stress you out. If using them feels like work, the card might not be worth it for you." Pro Tips for Maximizing Your Cards The Travel Mom Squad shares some expert tips to get the most value: elevated offers, reminders for monthly credits, and how to earn referral points. Links: Credit Card Benefits Cheat Sheet: https://travelmomsquad.kit.com/benefits-cheat-sheet Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Cards mentioned in the episode The American Express® Gold Card: http://travelmomsquad.com/american-express-gold The Platinum Card® from American Express: https://travelmomsquad.com/refer/american-express-platinum-card/ American Express® Business Gold Card: http://travelmomsquad.com/american-express-business-gold The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: http://travelmomsquad.com/american-express-business-platinum Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Why we love American Express Membership Rewards® for travel 01:00 – The personal cards 02:30 – Restaurant benefits, quirks, and ice-cream cakes galore 10:15 – Travel benefits: lounge access, travel perks 17:00 – The key differences explained 21:30 – The business-card breakdown 24:30 – All about business welcome offers 33:00 – How to inquire about retention offers 38:30 – Our final verdict: which cards we keep and why If you want to earn more American Express Membership Rewards®, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in to hear all the details, plus some hilarious behind-the-scenes stories about how we use our points for everyday treats and family travel.…

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117. How to Book Family Flights to Europe Using Points and Miles 40:49

for 7 weeks siden40:49

40:49

Dreaming of taking your family to Europe without draining your wallet? In this episode, we sit down with our team member and resident Europe travel expert, Traci Siegel, to share her tried-and-true tips for flying a family overseas using points and miles. These strategies will help make your dream a reality! Family Travel 101: The Big Differences Flying solo or as a couple is one thing—booking flights for a family of four, five, or more is a whole different game. Traci shares the biggest challenges families face, like securing multiple award seats, navigating school calendars, and choosing flights that work with kids' needs. Traci’s advice? Plan ahead, prioritize nonstop routes when possible, and always consider how the experience will feel with little ones in tow. The Best Programs for Family Flights to Europe Traci breaks down her top picks for family-friendly travel to Europe: Flying Blue (KLM/Air France): The ultimate program for family flights thanks to its 25% discount for kids aged 2-11. Aeroplan (Air Canada): Great availability and useful for connecting flights. Virgin Atlantic: Often overlooked, but perfect for flights to London—especially since they now allow household pooling of points. British Airways: A solid option, especially with their recent improvements in saver availability. Alaska Mileage Plan: Can be great for business-class flights to Ireland on Aer Lingus. Timing Is Everything: When to Book for the Best Deals The key to scoring great flights? Timing. As Traci says, “Planning ahead is a superpower when you’re traveling with kids.” If you’re eyeing flights for next year’s spring break, start looking during this year’s break! She also recommends tools like Seats.aero to set alerts for award availability. Business Class with Kids: Is It Worth It? Many parents wonder if business class is worth the points for family travel. Traci breaks down the pros and cons, and drops a tip about how to try a smooth last-minute switch from economy to business class. Europe with kids doesn't have to be a bucket-list dream. It's something you can do every year, and you can use these strategies to plan your next trip today! Links: Links For This Episode: https://pointstalk.supercast.com Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Meet Traci and hear about her family's frequent trips to Europe 03:00 – The biggest differences when booking award flights for families 06:15 – Top airline programs for family-friendly travel 10:30 – The importance of timing and when to start searching 15:20 – How to fly business class with kids without breaking the points bank 22:45 – Common mistakes and how to avoid them 28:00 – Tips for booking from smaller airports 35:00 – Final takeaways and encouragement to start planning today If you've ever dreamed of taking your family to Europe, this episode gives you the roadmap to make it happen with points and miles. Tune in now to get all the details, plus Traci’s expert insights and funny family travel stories!…

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116. Everything You Need to Know About Flying Blue 42:58

for 8 weeks siden42:58

42:58

If you’ve been looking for a go-to points and miles program for international travel, let us introduce you to Flying Blue, the joint loyalty program of Air France and KLM. In this episode, we’re diving into why this program has become one of our absolute favorites. Why We Love Flying Blue Pam kicks things off by breaking down the basics, including which airlines use Flying Blue and how you can easily transfer points to that program. Sweet Spots & Family Perks One of the biggest reasons we love Flying Blue? Their incredible award pricing. Even after their recent devaluation, it’s still one of the best options for booking flights to Europe. Megan highlights how Flying Blue offers discounted kids’ fares, and Alex shares how she used these discounted fares to book amazing flights for her whole family of six to Amsterdam. Promo Awards & Transfer Bonuses = Big Savings Another reason we keep coming back to Flying Blue is their monthly Promo Rewards. These discounted routes—often between major U.S. and European cities—can significantly lower the miles needed for economy flights. And stacking Promo Awards with transfer bonuses from credit card programs is where the real magic happens. Best Ways to Book Flights Megan shares her top strategies for getting the best deals with Flying Blue and Alex also highlights one of Flying Blue’s coolest perks: free stopovers in Amsterdam or Paris! Flights We’ve Booked Using Flying Blue The Travel Mom Squad has taken full advantage of this program. Here are just a few flights we’ve booked recently: SLC to Amsterdam (nonstop!) for 105,000 miles total for a family of six Boston to London on Virgin Atlantic Upper Class for 29,000 Flying Blue miles JFK to Nairobi in Air France business class for 95,000 miles LAX to Tahiti in Air France premium economy for 50,000 miles per ticket Morocco trip: From the US to Morocco and back for 100,000 miles in business class Final Thoughts: Is Flying Blue Right for You? If you’re not already using Flying Blue, this is your sign to start exploring its potential! Tune in now to learn all the details, and let us know—where would you use Flying Blue miles to go next? Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Link to Transfer Bonus Post: Transfer Bonuses and Sales on Points & Miles February 2025 - Travel Mom Squad - https://travelmomsquad.com/transfer-bonuses-and-sales-on-points-miles-january-2025 Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Intro: Why Flying Blue is one of our favorite loyalty programs 01:15 – What is Flying Blue? A quick breakdown of the program 03:00 – Transferable points: Why Flying Blue is easy to earn 06:15 – Why families love Flying Blue (discounted kids’ fares & family pooling) 10:20 – Monthly Promo Awards & stacking with transfer bonuses 15:45 – Best ways to book: Finding deals on the Flying Blue calendar 20:30 – Free stopovers in Amsterdam & Paris 25:00 – Flights we’ve booked using Flying Blue miles 35:00 – Final thoughts: Why Flying Blue is still a great program despite devaluation…

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115. Our Honeymoons—Then vs. Now! Get Your Honeymoon for Nearly Free Using Points and Miles 33:04

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For Valentine’s Day, we’re taking a trip down memory lane! In this episode, we’re sharing all the details about our honeymoons—how we booked them before we knew about points and miles, what we spent back then, and what we'd do today now that we’re points-savvy. Spoiler alert: our original honeymoons were not nearly as luxurious (or strategic!) as what we could plan today. Pam’s “Not-So-Luxurious” Road Trip Honeymoon Pam kicks things off by sharing her 1974 honeymoon—let’s just say, points and miles were not a thing, and neither was luxury travel. If she could redo it today, Pam would plan a dreamy trip to Greece, flying Emirates business class, stopping in NYC on the way, and relaxing at stunning hotels in Santorini and Crete—all on points. Alex’s Two-Part Honeymoon: Park City & Mexico Since Alex’s husband played college football, their wedding date was dictated by the sports schedule, leaving them with a tight honeymoon window. Flights and accommodations came from family gifts. Today, she would book an easy, stress-free honeymoon at the Andaz Maui using points and a travel credit for a rental car—keeping the travel cost to just $22! Jess’s First Trip to Europe: Budget Paris & London Jess technically did use miles for her honeymoon—but in the least efficient way possible. Jess's economy flights to Europe came from years of earning miles on a single airline card. Looking back, she would book Emirates first class to Italy, stay at the Grand Hotel Victoria in Lake Como, and enjoy luxury Hyatt stays in Florence—all for far less out of pocket than she originally spent! Why We’d Do Things Differently Today Weddings are expensive, but newlyweds can use their wedding expenses to earn credit card welcome offers. That means luxurious hotels, business-class flights, and less out of pocket than budget honeymoons! And the best part is taking “honeymoon-level” trips every single year—because why limit luxury travel to just one trip? If you're planning a honeymoon or dreaming about a do-over, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in now and start planning your dream trip for less! Links: How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free: How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free - https://travelmomsquad.lpages.co/freevacation Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Walking down memory lane: How we booked our honeymoons pre-points & miles 01:40 – Pam’s honeymoon: A road trip, Disneyland on Christmas, and a car breakdown 07:00 – What Pam would do differently today: A dream Greece trip on points 13:00 – Alex’s honeymoon: A football schedule, Park City, and a timeshare in Cabo 17:00 – How Alex would redo her honeymoon for $22 with points 22:00 – Jess’s honeymoon: Economy flights to Europe and a budget hotel in Paris 26:30 – Jess’s dream honeymoon today: Emirates first class and Italian luxury hotels 31:00 – The best honeymoon strategy: Use wedding expenses to earn free travel 33:00 – Why every year can feel like a honeymoon with points and miles…

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114. All About Transfer Bonuses: What They Are and How to Use Them To Get Even More Points 26:17

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Transfer bonuses are one of the best ways to stretch your points further, and in this episode we’re breaking down everything you need to know about them. From understanding how they work to sharing the bonuses we’ve taken advantage of, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you maximize your rewards and travel more for less. What Are Transfer Bonuses? Pam explains that what transfer bonuses are and how big a difference they can make in your redemptions. For example, a recent American Express bonus to Virgin Atlantic offered a 40% increase, turning 100,000 Membership Rewards into 140,000 Virgin Atlantic miles. When to Use Them While transfer bonuses can be tempting, Alex emphasizes the importance of having a plan. Speculative transfers (moving points without a specific booking in mind) can leave you stuck with miles you don’t need if your plans change. The takeaway? If you’re new to points, only use transfer bonuses when you know you’ll use the miles. Stacking Bonuses for Maximum Value Jess shares how stacking transfer bonuses with existing airline or hotel promotions can unlock even more value. And Alex highlights Flying Blue’s monthly promo awards and child discount, which allow you to save even more by pairing discounted flights with transfer bonuses. Hotel Transfer Bonuses Jess dives into the hotel side of transfer bonuses, highlighting the best options and the ones that might not be a good deal. Our Favorite Transfer Bonus Wins Each of us shares a recent win: Pam: Transferred 100,000 Amex points to Virgin Atlantic with a 40% bonus, booking a round-trip business class flight to London for just 58,000 miles and $600 in fees. Alex: Used a 20% transfer bonus to Flying Blue to book business class flights to Morocco with her mom and sisters for just 55,000 points each way. Jess: Took advantage of a Capital One transfer bonus to Virgin Red, then Virgin Atlantic, to book a KLM flight for nearly 50% fewer points. Transfer bonuses are an incredible way to maximize your points and miles, but timing and planning are everything. Whether you’re saving for a luxury business-class flight or looking to reduce the cost of a family vacation, these promotions can make a big difference. Check out our blog for monthly updates on the latest transfer bonuses, and start planning your next big adventure! Links: Subscribe to Points Talk Premium: https://pointstalk.supercast.com/ Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Transfer Bonuses and Sales on Points & Miles January 2025 - Travel Mom Squad Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Introduction: What are transfer bonuses? 01:15 – Pam explains how transfer bonuses work 10:30 – When to use (and not use) transfer bonuses 15:00 – Stacking bonuses for flights and hotels 21:30 – Jess’s Hilton strategy and hotel transfer tips 27:55 – Favorite transfer bonus wins from Pam, Alex, and Jess 35:00 – Final thoughts on maximizing transfer bonuses…

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113. Inside Our Hawaiian Holidays – How We Spent the Holidays in Hawaii on Points and Miles 1:08:43

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The holidays are magical no matter where you celebrate, but spending them in Hawaii? That’s next-level. In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad shares how we used points and miles to pull off unforgettable trips to Maui and Kauai over the Christmas and New Year holidays. We’re giving you all the behind-the-scenes details so you can start planning your own Hawaiian holiday adventure. Maui with Alex’s Crew Alex starts by sharing how she surprised her family with a Christmas gift they’ll never forget: six nights at the Hyatt Regency Maui. Planning a year ahead made all the difference, allowing her to lock in the best rates using 210,000 Hyatt points for two king rooms. Alex breaks down why booking early is crucial during peak season and how transferring points to Hyatt made this dream trip possible. Pam’s Anniversary Upgrade Quest Pam recounts her experience booking alongside Alex and attempting to score a suite upgrade using Hyatt’s upgrade award. While she didn’t get the full upgrade she hoped for, Pam shares the hilarious story of how a mix-up led to Alex receiving flowers meant for Pam’s 50th wedding anniversary. Kauai Adventures with Jess Over on Kauai, Jess’s family enjoyed six nights at the Grand Hyatt Kauai, covering two rooms with a whopping 420,000 Hyatt points. Jess explains how she maximized her points strategy by leveraging Hyatt’s Guest of Honor program and sharing tips for making family stays more enjoyable. Flights and Rental Cars: Navigating the Holidays Booking flights to Hawaii during peak season can be daunting, but we share how Pam's experience was flying United and how Jess and Alex got creative with Southwest companion passes, gift cards, and points to keep costs down. Jess also shares her game-changing experience renting a car with Pineapple Express on Kauai—a rental-car service that lets you skip the lines and even includes beach gear! Hawaiian Holiday Takeaways The best part of these trips? Spending time with family and meeting some of you, our listeners, who were also in Hawaii thanks to points and miles. Whether it’s taking the grandparents along, planning a holiday surprise for your kids, or just soaking up the aloha spirit, this episode is packed with inspiration for your next adventure. Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: How to Take Your Family to Hawaii for Nearly Free: Family Guide to Hawaii on Points & Miles - https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/products/hawaii-family-guide Shaka Guide: Kauai Tours | Audio Tour Guide - https://www.shakaguide.com/tours/kauai Reservations for Kalalau trail: Reservations - Go Hāʻena - https://gohaena.com/ Pineapple Express car rental: https://pineappleexpresskauaicarrentals.com Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 – Intro: How we each spent the holidays in Hawaii 01:30 – Alex’s Maui trip: Booking the Hyatt Regency and family surprises 07:00 – Pam’s story: Anniversary upgrades and club lounge tips 15:20 – Jess’s Kauai trip: Guest of Honor perks and family fun 23:30 – Flights: Southwest companion passes and creative savings 31:45 – Rental cars: Tips for Maui and Kauai 41:00 – Reflections: Meeting listeners and making memories…

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112. You’re NOT As Bad At Points As You Think You Are! Conversation with Devon Gimbel 47:52

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Feeling overwhelmed by points and miles? You’re not alone! In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Devon Gimbel of Point Me to First Class to discuss the psychology of learning points and miles—and why you’re probably doing better than you think. Whether you’re new to the game or feeling stuck, Devon shares her expertise and encouragement to keep going. Devon’s Journey: From Skeptic to Expert Devon begins by sharing her personal journey into points and miles. Growing up in a single-parent household, travel was often limited to road trips and camping. And Devon didn’t dive in immediately—she was skeptical of credit cards and their potential for debt. Slowly but surely, she learned how to responsibly leverage points and miles, and her first intentional redemption? Flying Lufthansa First Class to Paris! The Four Phases of Learning Points and Miles Devon introduces the “four phases of learning” and how they apply to mastering points and miles: Ignorance is Bliss: At the start, you don’t know what you don’t know, and every little win feels huge. The Valley of Despair: Confidence takes a hit as you realize how much more there is to learn, but this phase is key to growth. Conscious Competence: Skills and knowledge improve, though it still requires effort to apply them. Unconscious Competence: With time and practice, navigating points and miles becomes second nature. The takeaway? Feeling frustrated doesn’t mean you’re failing—it’s a natural part of the learning curve! Mistakes Are Part of the Process Devon, Alex, and Jess share their own cringe-worthy redemption stories to remind listeners that no one starts as an expert. From redeeming points for DVDs on Amazon to cashing in for economy flights when premium options were available, everyone has made choices they’d change now. But as Devon points out, mistakes are how you learn—and each one gets you closer to becoming a points pro. Practical Tips for Staying Motivated Devon also offers practical advice for listeners feeling stuck. Her key tips: Focus on progress, not perfection. Use tools like Travel Freely and Seats.Aero to streamline the process. Set realistic goals based on your travel priorities. And most importantly, don’t compare your journey to someone else’s. Whether you’re road-tripping with kids or planning a dream solo trip, success looks different for everyone. Keep Going—You’re Doing Better Than You Think If you’re feeling overwhelmed, tune in for a dose of encouragement and actionable steps to move forward. Devon’s insights will leave you inspired to keep learning, keep trying, and keep traveling. Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Where You Can Find Devon: Website: https://pointmetofirstclass.com Podcast: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pointmeto_firstclass Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Meet Devon and learn about her inspiring travel journey 07:00 – Breaking down the four phases of learning points and miles 16:00 – Personal stories: Mistakes, lessons, and growth 30:00 – Tools and strategies to simplify the learning process 42:00 – Final thoughts: Why you’re better at points than you think…

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111. Looking Ahead to 2025—Our Cards, Trips, and Goals! 33:35

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It’s never too early to plan for your next adventure! In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad team looks ahead to 2025, sharing the trips we’ve already booked, the credit cards we’re eyeing, and our goals for the year. From Bora Bora to Spain, and everything in between, we’re setting the stage for another year of nearly free travel—powered by points and miles! The Cards We’re Excited About for 2025 Jess kicks things off with a breakdown of the credit cards she’s targeting, starting with the Capital One Spark Cash Plus and a high-value 80,000-mile Alaska Airlines personal card offer. Pam and Alex are also planning to go for the Capital One Spark Cash Plus, while Alex shares how she’s strategizing with Citi AAdvantage business cards to maximize welcome offers. The key takeaway? Timing matters when it comes to opening new cards and meeting bonus requirements. Trips We’ve Already Booked Between the three of us, we’ve got a packed itinerary for 2025! Highlights include: Jess: Birthday celebrations in San Miguel de Allende, spring break in Japan, and summer escapes to Iceland and Ireland. Alex: A Costa Rica adventure with her family, a Maui getaway, and a bucket-list trip to Bora Bora with her husband. Pam: A whirlwind journey through India, Nepal, and Bhutan, along with visits to Spain, Maui, and Bora Bora. We talk about how planning trips far in advance ensures award availability and allows us to secure premium travel experiences. Points and Miles Strategies for the Year Ahead One thing is clear: flexibility is crucial for success in the points and miles world. Alex shares how she’s keeping her plans open for potential limited-time offers, while Jess talks about balancing her earn-and-burn strategy to maximize the value of her points. Pam reflects on how having a solid points balance gives her the freedom to take spontaneous trips or splurge on luxury experiences. Make 2025 Your Best Travel Year Yet! If you’re ready to make 2025 the year of nearly free travel, tune in to this episode for inspiration and actionable tips. We also share a free masterclass on how to get your next vacation for nearly free, so be sure to check the show notes for the link. Let’s make this your best travel year yet! Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free: https://travelmomsquad.lpages.co/freevacation How I Got Approved for the Capital One Spark Cash Plus: https://travelmomsquad.com/how-i-got-approved-for-the-capital-one-spark-cash-plus/ Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Introduction: Looking ahead to 2025 01:00 – The credit cards we’re eyeing for 2025 11:00 – Our travel plans: Highlights from our booked trips 28:00 – Points strategies and staying flexible 31:00 – Points and miles goals for the year ahead 33:00 – How to make 2025 your best travel year yet…

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110. The Best of 2024—Our Favorite Hotels, Flights, and Offers 41:14

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