Points Talk®: Your Travel Dreams, Made Possible by Points

Hey there! We're Alex, Pam, and Jess, the Travel Mom Squad. Today, we're diving into the world of business cards and why they're essential for maximizing points and miles. Business cards are a game-changer in traveling on points. They don't count towards the Chase 5/24 rule, except for a few exceptions like Discover and Capital One. This means you can keep opening new business cards, earning more points and miles. Qualifying for a business card is easier than you think. While you can still take advantage of personal cards, business cards offer more significant opportunities for accumulating points. Higher welcome offers and increased flexibility make them a valuable tool in your award travel journey. One of the best things about business cards is that they open up a whole new world of credit card options. You'll find cards with generous welcome offers ranging from 75,000 to 200,000 points. That means more points for flights, hotels, and other travel expenses. Now, some of you might be hesitant about getting a business card. We understand. But let us assure you that you can do it! Don't let the fear of not having a traditional business hold you back. Get creative, explore side hustles, and open the door to more rewards. If you're ready to supercharge your travel game, hit play now and listen to our latest episode. We'll dive deeper into the world of business cards, sharing tips, insights, and personal experiences. Get ready to take your points and miles to new heights. Happy traveling! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 01:10 Exploring the significance of business cards in credit card strategies. 01:51 Understanding that business cards generally do not count towards the Chase 5/24 rule. 02:25 Clarifying the Chase 5/24 rule, explaining its limitations on card approvals. 03:16 Highlighting the advantages of business cards for maximizing point accumulation. 04:24 Discussing various business cards with generous welcome offers and their potential benefits. 05:38 Explaining that award travel is still possible without business cards, but with a more limited point-earning potential. 06:27 Emphasizing the additional opportunities and benefits gained by opening business cards. 07:32 Discovering different side hustles that qualify individuals for business cards. 09:43 Sharing examples of side hustles, such as selling on Facebook Marketplace, tutoring, coaching, photography, and gig work. 12:04 Sharing personal experiences of the hosts in utilizing their own businesses for business card applications. 14:24 Highlighting creative business examples shared by readers, including ticket reselling and selling eggs. 15:39 Outlining a simple three-step process to create a business for qualifying for a business card. 17:11 Addressing frequently asked questions related to business card applications. 21:35 Sharing personal favorite business cards, including Chase Ink Cash and Hilton Honors Business Card. 27:42 Encouraging listeners to check the show notes for a blog post on how to qualify for a business credit card.

Hello, fellow travelers! We're the Travel Mom Squad—Pam, Jess, and Alex. In this episode, we're taking you on a virtual journey to sunny Southern California, and the best part? We're showing you how to do it all on points and miles! We all love visiting Southern California. It's a quick flight for Pam from Denver and Alex from Salt Lake City, and even for Jess from Houston, it's not too bad. The weather is always perfect, and it's a hit with our families. In this episode, we're covering all our favorite ways to get to Southern California, the best places to stay, and so much more. We've flown into various airports depending on our destination within SoCal, including San Diego, John Wayne, and Long Beach. And we've found some really good redemptions. For example, Alex's recent trip to Huntington Beach cost just 48,000 miles round trip for four tickets. That's less than one signup bonus for a Southwest card! When it comes to accommodations, we have a few favorites. But that's not all! We also discuss tips for making the most of your points and miles, and so much more. So come along with us as we take you to Southern California today, all on points and miles, of course! Hit play to hear the full conversation! A trip to Southern California is sure to be a memorable one for the entire family. There is so much to do and see all for pennies on the dollar! Make sure you register for our Free Masterclass "How to Start Traveling for Nearly Free." Links below! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Manchester Grand San Diego Andaz San Diego Park Hyatt Aviara Coronado Island Marriott Grand Pacific Palisades Resort Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach The Seabird Episode Minute By Minute: 0:02 Favorite ways to travel and stay in Southern California 1:21 Alex gives her preferred flights when traveling to Southern California 2:58 Why smaller airports can make for easier travel and better redemptions 3:54 Why Southwest prices and redemptions are best for large family travel 4:15 Pam always flies United and saves miles and points for business class seats 5:13 Jess prefers Southwest for her family, utilizing the companion pass 6:02 Favorite places to stay in San Diego 6:21 Jess gives a glowing family review of the Manchester Grand Hyatt, San Diego 9:57 Pam loves the Andaz San Diego for a more bougie, classy feel 11:56 Jess mentions the most luxurious and expensive option, the Park Hyatt Aviara 16:30 Pam offers the Coronado Marriott as another family friendly alternative 18:04 Alex shares her experience staying at the Grand Pacific Palisades Resort 20:06 The Grand Pacific is walking distance from Legoland and condos for families 21:35 Places to stay in Huntington Beach 25:28 Jess and Alex give their review of the Hyatt Globalist breakfast 28:47 Alex shares her experience at the Seabird 29:08 The Seabird has more of a boutique feel that overlooks the ocean 31:51 The Hyatt Regency and The Seabird are both great ocean-side options for families 37:04 A look into the Travel Mom Squad next planned trip to Southern California

If you're a regular listener of the Travel Mom Squad podcast, you know that we're all about sharing tips and tricks to make the most out of our global adventures. This week, we're giving you a deep dive into one of our all-time favorite hotel chains—Hyatt! On this episode, we - Pam, Alex, and Jess - opened up about our journey to becoming Hyatt superfans, despite having previously dabbled with a variety of hotel rewards programs. We let you in on why Hyatt has us singing its praises, revealing the alluring benefits of the Hyatt program. Interestingly, we didn't always have this love for Hyatt. Our transition from hotel free-agents to Hyatt die-hards was gradual, evolving from a combination of disappointment with other hotel rewards programs and the enticing advantages offered by Hyatt. The game-changer? The real value of Hyatt started to shine when other hotel rewards programs began to slowly devalue their points. Amidst the 2020 pandemic, Hyatt cleverly made it much simpler to achieve their coveted Globalist status, igniting a spark of interest among travelers. Pam summed it up perfectly: once you taste the perks of being a Globalist, you simply can't go back. In addition to the irresistible Globalist status, we talked about the ease of earning Hyatt points, particularly compared to other hotel brands. With Hyatt's beneficial partnership with Chase, we can effortlessly accumulate points through Hyatt Personal and Business Cards, as well as Chase's Ultimate Rewards cards like the Sapphire Preferred, Reserve, Freedom Flex, Freedom Unlimited, and Ink Cards. We also reminisce about our favorite Hyatt stays to date, leaving you daydreaming about fantastic locations and luxurious hotel experiences. We won't spoil the surprises, but let's just say these stories might just inspire your next vacation destination. Whether you're already a fan or just Hyatt-curious, this episode offers insights that can turn your travel dreams into affordable realities. So tune in, take notes, and who knows, you might find yourself joining Team Hyatt by the end! Until the next episode, keep exploring and happy traveling! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Ultimate Guide to Hyatt: Ultimate Guide to Hyatt Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 Show introduction 1:04 Why we weren't always obsessed with Hyatt 4:38 What makes it so easy to earn rewards points with Hyatt 10:00 Hyatt, still offering an award chart! 13:03 The path to free flights: Our tips when bundling with Hyatt 19:04 Once you go Globalist, you never go back! 28:34 Some of our favorite Hyatt stays to date and how to book yours 37:25 The Hyatt Hotels bucket list: Where we are heading next and why!

Welcome back to the show! Today, Pam and Jess are excited to share their incredible adventures in Scotland. Scotland holds a special place in our hearts, and we can't wait to share the scoop with you! Let's start with Pam's journey. It was a nail-biter as she narrowly caught her flight to Edinburgh after dealing with a delayed positioning flight from Denver to Newark. But the icing on the cake? She scored Air France business class seats for just 58K Amex points, thanks to a fantastic transfer bonus. Talk about getting luxury for less! Now, let's dive into Jess's success. On their first Scottish adventure, her family of 6 used a whopping 360,000 United miles, flying from Houston to Chicago and finally landing in the enchanting city of Edinburgh. On their second trip, they took advantage of the Singapore fifth freedom flight, scoring direct flights from Houston to Manchester for just 25,000 miles per person each way. A fantastic deal for a family of six! Despite our different stories, Scotland captured our hearts with its stunning beauty and left us with treasured memories. And the best part? We accomplished it all without breaking the bank, thanks to our award travel skills. If you're itching to hear more about our Scottish escapades and learn insider tips on traveling on points, hit that play button and tune into the full episode. Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Booking an Airbnb with Points and Miles Scotland on Points and Miles Happy Tours day trip to Isle of Skye Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 Ready to go to Scotland? Here is how! 1:58 How we got to Scotland from Denver: Tips you need to know 7:41 A look inside Jess's two times in Scotland with the family. (And why they are ready to go back!) 13:53 Pam's top picks and stays in Scotland 16:28 The best activities in Scotland for all ages 30:26 What Jess did and what she loved about her first stay in Scotland 33:17 How Jess upgraded her stay in Scotland the second time around

Maybe you've played the points game, your points and miles are at the ready, and now the daunting task of booking and planning your trip is up next. Overwhelmed? Don't be. Today, we're sharing a quick guide on how we make the most of points and miles when planning our trips! Alex shares that she always puts her accommodation first when planning a Hawaiian escape. With a multitude of flights available, securing a hotel takes precedence. However, when she plans for a European journey, it's all about the luxurious comfort of a business class seat before anything else. For equally appealing destinations and flights, such as the Maldives, she often finds herself doing a bit of back-and-forth to get everything perfectly synced. Our seasoned traveler, Pam, is all about prioritizing comfort. For her, securing a premium flight often takes priority, sometimes even before settling on the destination. An extraordinary flight can become a memorable experience in itself, and that's exactly what Pam seeks. On the flip side, Jess leans towards booking hotels first. With easier cancellation policies and point redemptions, she sees less risk in this approach. This strategy becomes especially beneficial when flying with airlines like Southwest, which only releases their flight schedules five to six months in advance. A valuable tip from Alex for those planning domestic flights: start with Google Flights. Once you have a few suitable options shortlisted, check the airlines' websites for point requirements. If you find yourself short on points, our cheat sheet is there to help you identify potential point transfer options. Ready to unlock more travel tips like these? To learn more from our personal experiences and more in-depth discussion on these tips, hit play now! Your nearly-free vacations await! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Transfer Partner Cheat Sheet: https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/cheatsheet Straight to the Points Premium Alerts Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 Our Ultimate Guide to Booking Trips 0:58 Our FAQ: Do you book your hotel or your flight first? 8:19 Tips for searching for domestic reward flights 11:16 How to find the best awards for international flights 22:18 Booking your hotel: Do's and Don't's from the pros 27:19 Planning activities for your trip: Tips for the lazy traveler and planners alike 34:28 How Pam plans her activities now vs when she was younger

Have you ever dreamed of jetting off to Italy or Switzerland on a luxury trip but thought it was out of your budget? Well, think again. We're the Travel Mom Squad, and we're here to let you in on our travel secrets! In this episode, we discuss our recent trips to Italy and Switzerland and share the smart tricks we used to travel in style while saving a fortune. First up, Jess spilled the beans about her trip to Italy. She shared a fantastic tip about Fifth Freedom flights, where airlines operate between two foreign countries. In her case, it was an Emirates flight from JFK to Milan. Bet you didn't know you could use your points like that, did you? But, the cherry on top was the opulent experience aboard Emirates first class. We're talking top-class service, comfy seats, and exceptional food and drink. She even mentioned an onboard lounge serving espresso martinis mid-flight—now that's flying in style! Switching gears, Alex and Pam shared their own adventure to Switzerland, which had its own unique itinerary. Opting for a direct flight from Salt Lake City to Amsterdam on KLM, they cleverly timed their journey to avoid the worst of jet lag. They managed to enjoy dinner, watch a movie, sleep, and wake up for breakfast on the plane before reaching Amsterdam. Talk about efficient planning! Sounds interesting? We've only scratched the surface here. There are more tips and juicy stories on the full show, so hit play to get the complete lowdown. Trust us, you'll be planning your own luxury trip on a budget in no time. Stay tuned for more insider tips and tricks, a deep dive into the power of points and miles, and plenty of travel inspiration! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 How to make even your biggest travel goals happen 1:19 How we flew to Italy for nearly free! 12:55 Amsterdam to Switzerland - What you need to know before you go 14:48 The flight home on Emirates and the shower in the sky (Pam's favorite!) 26:54 All about The Grand Hotel Victoria, Lake Como - is it worth it? 30:24 Our honest review on The Hotel Aquarius in Venice 34:02 A look into our time in Florence and The Palazzo Vecchietti 37:10 Our best tips and where to stay in Switzerland

Today we let you in on some of the hidden benefits of credit cards that have saved our day more than once! The points and miles are great, but the added perks? They're the unsung heroes of some of our travel stories! We begin with primary car rental insurance, a godsend for any traveler. Jess explains why she prioritizes this feature over anything else, even meeting a minimum spend. You'll also hear Pam express how much simpler and stress-free her travels have become. Then there's delayed, lost, or damaged baggage coverage. Alex and Pam share their personal experiences. During a trip to Greece, Pam's luggage was delayed for three days. In another incident, Alex's stroller was damaged during a Southwest flight. Since she'd paid the taxes and fees with her Chase Sapphire Preferred, she was able to claim reimbursement for the damaged stroller. If you are still reading, you can probably tell that credit cards have some massive perks beyond just the points and miles. We can't imagine how these stories would have ended up without the hidden benefits of these cards. (Check out the links below to learn more!) Ready to unlock more travel tips like these? Hit play and discover how these credit card benefits can be your secret weapon for hassle-free travels. Your nearly-free vacations await! Links: Free Gifts and Resources To Start Your Points and Miles Journey: Award Travel Academy: Award Travel Academy I https://travelmomsquad.teachable.com/p/thmata?coupon_code=THMWEB150 Our Website: https://travelmomsquad.com Connect With Us: Newsletter signup: https://travelmomsquad.com/newsletter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelmomsquad/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travelmomsquad Facebook group: Travel Mom Squad: Travel on Points | Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Credit Cards with Cell Phone Protection Credit Cards with Travel Protection Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 There are so many more ways to earn and level up your travels! 1:14 Protection #1: Car Rental Insurance - this can save you so much hassle 5:40 Protection #2 Lost, Delayed or Damaged Baggage - How Pam got reimbursed for lost luggage 15:04 Protection #3 Cell Phone Insurance - The trick all entrepreneurs need to know 22:49 Protection #4 Delayed or Canceled Flights - How to get your money back and on a new flight fast!

Hello fellow explorers! We're the Travel Mom Squad—Alex, Pam, and Jess, and we're excited to take you along on our recent Caribbean adventures! Starting with Aruba, Pam recounts how she masterfully use Marriott free night certificates. It was a trek from the US west coast, but United miles and a clever flight booking made it possible. She first stayed at the Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino—and, wow, what a place! Despite some reservations about the 'casino' aspect, she fell in love with the resort's atmosphere. Then she 'hotel hopped' over to the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba. The highlight? Flamingo Beach, with its unique blend of snorkeling and lounging alongside pink flamingos! Next stop, Grand Cayman. Alex's tale of her stay at the Kimpton Seafire is fascinating. Thanks to a sign-up bonus, she extended her stay from two nights to four—all by purchasing 35k points during a 100% bonus period. The breathtaking Seven Mile Beach and top-notch service added a cherry on top of her luxury stay. Finally, Jess recaps her stay at the Park Hyatt St. Kitts. Caribbean luxury at its finest! We're not just sharing our experiences but also showing you how to travel your way using reward points, securing affordable flights, and nabbing the best deals. Remember, rewards and points can fluctuate, so keep an eye on that 30-day calendar! So, are you ready to travel on points all the way to the Caribbean like we did? Hit play now to hear our full adventure and start planning your own! For more travel tips like this, be sure to check out the links below. Happy travels! ✈️ Links: Free Gifts and Resources To Start Your Points and Miles Journey: Award Travel Academy: Award Travel Academy I https://travelmomsquad.teachable.com/p/thmata?coupon_code=THMWEB150 Our Website: https://travelmomsquad.com Connect With Us: Newsletter signup: https://travelmomsquad.com/newsletter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelmomsquad/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travelmomsquad Facebook group: Travel Mom Squad: Travel on Points | Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 0:45 How to travel to the Caribbean for nearly free and getting to Aruba 5:29 Our top places to stay in Aruba 10:23 Alex's top tips for getting to Grand Cayman 13:50 A glimpse inside Kimpton Seafire in Grand Cayman 19:14 Jess's #1 pick for where to stay in the Caribbean 21:28 Why we have a glowing review of the Park Hyatt St. Kitts 25:28 Insights and wisdom from Pam we can all learn from 26:51 Our current roadmap for future Caribbean trips

In our latest podcast episode, your favorite trio of the Travel Mom Squad—Pam, Jess, and Alex— give you an exclusive peek into our jet-setting lives. As many of you know, we've spent years perfecting the art of award travel, and we're thrilled to share our insider secrets with our beloved community. For this episode, we did something a little different: we turned to our Instagram followers (@travelmomsquad) to guide the conversation. Yes, every single question we tackle in this episode came straight from you, our loyal listeners! One question that sparked a lively discussion was about our strategy with credit cards—do we keep them open even after hitting the minimum spend? Let's just say, if you've been closing your cards after hitting the minimum spend, you might want to reconsider. But that's just the tip of the iceberg! We answered a wide range of questions...tune in now to hear them all! If you're not already following us on Instagram, we encourage you to do so. We love to engage with our listeners and the IG platform provides a wonderful space for us to do just that. Join our IG family, submit your questions, and you might just hear them answered in our next episode. So, what are you waiting for? Hit play to hear the full episode now and join us on this exhilarating ride. We can't wait to share our adventures with you! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 Show introduction 1:09 Question one: Do you keep your cards open? 3:46 American Express "Pop Up Jail" 7:33 Question two: After Hyatt, Hilton or Marriott? 9:26 Question three: How often do you open new cards? 9:58 Question four: What are the most common mistakes beginners make? 13:42 Question five: How do you split business responsibilities? 22:10 Question six: What is a realistic time frame for taking your first nearly free vacation? 23:55 Question seven: Do you ever take trips that are strictly vacation? 30:01 Question eight: Best business credit card offer currently available? 30:50 Question nine: How do I get under 5/24 while still earning signup bonuses? Is getting business cards the only way? 33:00 Question ten: How long does it take a signup bonus to hit your account? 34:12 Question eleven: Do you get nervous that award travel will get over inflated in the future? 35:40 Question twelve: Which cards have you opened so far this year?

Today, we (Alex, Pam, and Jess) shared our experiences and compared two fantastic Hyatt properties in Hawaii - the Grand Hyatt Kauai and the Hyatt Regency Maui. Let's dive into our adventure and see which resort came out on top! First, let's talk about the booking process. We booked our stays using Hyatt points, which we mostly earned through Chase Ultimate Rewards cards. We highlighted the incredible value of using points for these luxury resorts, as award stays at Hyatt properties don't incur any resort fees or taxes. Can you imagine staying at a luxurious hotel for $0? Yep, that's right - zero dollars! Now let's dive into our experiences at the resorts. Jess shared her thoughts on the Grand Hyatt Kauai, describing it as beautiful but enormous. You'll definitely get your steps in, as she mentioned clocking in over 15,000 steps just by staying on the property. The Grand Hyatt Kauai is spread out horizontally, while the Hyatt Regency Maui is built vertically. While we felt the rooms at the Grand Hyatt Kauai needed some updating, the hotel is in the process of renovating and upgrading all of their rooms. As for the Hyatt Regency Maui, Alex and Pam both had upgraded rooms with a king bed, a queen bed, and a sofa bed. We found the rooms spacious and perfect for a family. The layout of the resort is more compact compared to the Grand Hyatt Kauai, but still offers a beautiful experience. In terms of amenities, all three of us have Globalist status, which granted us access to club lounges, free valet parking, upgraded rooms, and complimentary breakfasts. We were amazed by the value we received during our stays. So, who won the battle of the Hawaiian Hyatts? The verdict is still out, as each resort offers unique experiences and layouts. Both the Grand Hyatt Kauai and the Hyatt Regency Maui provide luxurious accommodations and amenities, making them excellent choices for your next Hawaiian vacation. If you're interested in learning more about earning Hyatt points and maximizing your travel experiences, don't forget to check out our show notes for our ultimate guide to Ultimate Rewards and our guide to Hyatt points. Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Ultimate Guide to Ultimate Rewards: https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/ultimateguide Guide to More Hyatt Points: https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/ultimatehyatt Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 Let's talk about our favorite Hawaiian stays! 1:27 Grand Hyatt Kauai vs Hyatt Regency Maui - how we booked them 4:27 The hotel itself - Grand Hyatt Kauai 10:39 The hotel itself - Hyatt Regency Maui 18:55 Location and beaches - Grand Hyatt Kauai 26:22 Location and beaches - Hyatt Regency Maui 30:35 Pools and grounds - Grand Hyatt Kauai 33:56 Pools and grounds - Hyatt Regency Maui 37:53 Clubs at the Grand Hyatt Kauai 44:19 Clubs at Hyatt Regency Maui 47:05 Flavored water and restaurants available 52:39 Which is truly better?

Welcome to Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad podcast! Today Jess spills the beans on some incredible tips and tricks for saving money and making the most of points on Disney cruises. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let's dive in! Disney Cruise Tips & Tricks: Jess's Top Picks: Book Early & Save Big Jess reminds us that early birds get the worm! By booking your Disney cruise 12-18 months in advance, you can snag some amazing deals and avoid last-minute price hikes. Plus, you'll get the best cabin selection and dining options. So, plan ahead and save big! Rack Up Those Points: Using a travel rewards credit card is a fantastic way to earn points on your Disney cruise bookings. Jess suggests looking into cards that offer sign-up bonuses and rewards for everyday spending. Just be sure to pay off your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges! Redeem Points Strategically: Once you've accumulated enough points, Jess advises redeeming them in the most cost-effective way. This might include using points for airfare, pre- or post-cruise hotel stays, or even Disney cruise excursions. Make your points go the distance! 🌐 Hit play to hear Jess's full list of money-saving tips for Disney cruises! We hope these insights help you plan your magical Disney cruise while keeping your wallet happy. Until next time, happy cruising! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Ultimate Disney Cruise Credit Card Strategy Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 Why Disney Cruises aren't as expensive as you think! 0:42 Why you may enjoy a Disney Cruise even if you don't love Disney 3:13 Jess's tips for saving money where you can 8:51 Logistics: How Jess booked everything 17:23 How Jess saved on the most expensive cruise at the most expensive time 23:07 How the Chase Ink Premier card can help you save big 29:46 If you ever stop at Atlantis… 36:56 Gift cards, gift cards, gift cards! Why this could be the best way to spend. 40:33 What's included in the Disney cruise 47:35 Real Talk: Is it worth it? 50:05 Real Talk: Which is better, cruise or the park?

In today's special episode, we'll be discussing the evolution of our credit card strategies over time. We will be sharing insights into our unique approaches and how we have adapted our points stratagies over the years! Jess began her journey of traveling on points back in 2015, initially focusing on cards with no annual fees. She was hesitant to open business cards, and her primary goal was to secure flights for her family. However, her strategy has since evolved, and business cards now play a key role in her overall plan. Pam's experience was quite different. She was unaware of the points world until her daughter, Alex, introduced her to the concept. Without a clear plan, Pam simply opened as many cards as possible, and surprisingly, this "no strategy" approach has proven to be quite successful over the years. Meanwhile, Alex's journey began with a specific goal: a trip to Hawaii. She and her husband targeted particular cards to reach their dream destination. Once accomplished, Alex shifted her focus to cards offering the best deals at the time, accumulating a cache of points to plan trips based on her existing rewards. One of our favorite parts of traveling on points is there is no RIGHT or WRONG way to do it! So, whether you're new to this or a seasoned pro, stick around and let's learn from each other's strategies and experiences! :) Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Travel Freely App: Travel Freely | Free Travel App Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 Show Introduction 0:42 Afraid of annual fees? Listen to this 6:26 How Pam was a pseudo points master for years…and didn't know it! 11:00 The real reason why Alex started traveling on points 15:33 Why opening new cards is typically worth it in the long run 18:00 Why there are actually less downsides to earning points than you think 22:39 Tips for getting the most points when you can't do a lot of spending 25:00 Why Pam takes the "go big or go home" approach to earning 29:29 How we get around the Chase 5/24 rule 36:41 Cards that we will always keep

Hey there, are you dreaming of visiting Paris without breaking the bank? Well, it's definitely possible! In this episode, we'll share our experiences visiting the magical city of lights using points and miles. If you are new around here, we are Pam, Jess, and Alex! We are the Travel Mom Squad and have visited Paris multiple times, and we're excited to share our tips with you. Paris is a destination that is on top of many bucket lists, and for good reason. The food, the Eiffel Tower, and the street musicians create an incredible atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else. Plus, it's even better when you are visiting Paris on points and miles. When it comes to flights, we've used different airlines, but United is a great option for getting to Paris. They usually offer round-trip flights for 60,000 points in economy, but the prices can double during peak seasons. If you find that flights out of your airport are too expensive, try flying out of a bigger airport. This trick, called "positioning," can save you a lot of money. You may be thinking, what about hotels? Pam has stayed at a few hotels in Paris, but her favorite is the Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile. Hit play to learn all our best tips and tricks about the best places to stay in Paris! (If you pick the right place, you may even see a celebrity!) Whether you love to dance, explore, eat fantastic food, shop, or just people-watch, Paris has the best experiences for everyone in the family! Visiting Paris on points and miles is definitely possible. With a little bit of planning and points, you can enjoy the magical city of lights without breaking the bank. So start planning your trip to Paris today, and have a great time! If you want to earn points and miles that can lead to free travel, check out the links below to learn how we do it! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 0:02 Travel nearly free to Paris! 0:34 Why Paris is at the top of so many travel lists 3:04 Why Alex's first trip to Paris wasn't her favorite 7:54 The jetleg struggle when traveling to Paris 14:20 The best flights and tips to get to Paris 17:00 The best 4-star hotel deal we found in Paris 22:06 Why Pam loves hotel hopping on trips 29:07 A luxury stay Jess highly recommends 34:44 The easiest way to get your 'player 2' on board 37:20 A breathtaking garden the whole family will love 42:37 Why Jess loves to get a crepe and people watch in Paris 46:43 How to start collecting points to Paris today!

Let's talk about credit card minimum spend! This is a GAME CHANGER for racking up those valuable points and miles fast. If you're new to traveling on points, this concept may seem a bit daunting, but don't worry, we've got some tips and tricks to help you out. First off, we define what we mean by minimum spend. It's the minimum amount you need to spend on a credit card within a specified timeframe to earn a welcome offer. For example, you may need to spend $4,000 in the first three months to earn 60,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points or 75,000 Capital One Venture Miles. Now, you may be thinking, "How on earth am I going to spend $4,000 in three months?" But the truth is, it's easier than you think. You don't need to be spending frivolously or charging things you don't need. We're talking about charging your everyday expenses like groceries, gas, utilities, phone bills, eating out, and even medical expenses. You can even prepay some bills ahead of time to give yourself a boost! Trust us, meeting minimum spend requirements is easier than you think. Just charge your everyday expenses and pay them off in-full each month. Be sure to choose credit cards with minimum spend requirements that fit your budget, and don't go into debt just to earn points. With these tips and tricks, you'll be earning points and miles in no time! P.S.— Make sure to stick around until the end as we'll be sharing some of the craziest things we've done to hit minimum spend requirements. You won't want to miss it—it's sure to give you a good laugh! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 A quick challenge from Pam 0:49 Welcome and let's define what minimum spend actually is 8:31 How to open up a new cards strategically 12:00 How traveling on points can make the big purchase better! 22:00 What Pam saves up all her points for 20:57 How to meet the minimum spend on higher minimum spend cards such as business cards 28:43 A couple small disclaimers and working your way up along the way 31:02 Here's the craziest thing each of us done to reach a minimum spend!

If you're a travel enthusiast or looking to go on a trip soon, then you're going to love hearing about Pam's recent trip to Japan, Australia, and New Zealand! Pam, along with her husband, managed to take this incredible trip for a fraction of the cost, all thanks to points. They used points and miles to book their flights and hotels, saving them tens of thousands of dollars. Pam gives us the inside scoop on how she booked her flights through ANA, and shares some tips and tricks for finding award redemptions. All in all, Pam's trip was a huge success, and she and her husband had an amazing time exploring these three incredible destinations. If you're looking for a way to turn your dream trip into a reality, then you won't want to miss this episode. Tune in to hear all about Pam's adventure, and get some tips on how you can do it too. In this episode, not only will you hear about Pam's amazing trip to Japan, Australia, and New Zealand on points and miles, but you'll also get to learn about her rookie mistakes and how she overcame them. Plus, hear her favorite places and stays during her trip! If you are ready to travel on points to Tokyo, Australia, or New Zealand, be sure to check out the Travel Mom Squad resources like their Transfer Partner Cheat and blog posts for each destination. Start planning your next dream trip now and make it more affordable with points and miles by following the links below! *In this episode, Pam mentions a hotels.com 10th night free benefit. Since recording, hotels.com has overhauled their rewards program, and that benefit is no longer available. Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Transfer Partner Cheat Sheet: https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/cheatsheet Kimpton Hotels Blog Post: Kimpton Hotels Are My Favorite IHG Brand Tokyo on Points and Miles: Points and Miles to Tokyo Australia on Points and Miles: Points and Miles to Sydney, Australia New Zealand on Points and Miles: Using Points and Miles for New Zealand Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 Pam's recent trip to three countries 0:42 A good breakdown of how the flights to Japan work 3:45 How Pam and Jess booked their trip to Japan 9:02 What the Tokyo hotels were like and how Pam got them 13:19 The best and most unlikely entertainment 16:24 Our tour around Sydney 19:43 The full Four Seasons review 24:37 Pam's party continues in New Zealand 32:03 Pam talks about her rookie mistake in Queenstown and other hotels 38:44 Favorite Hotels at each location and the overall value of this trip on points

Hey there! It's your favorite Travel Mom Squad, Pam, Jess, and Alex, coming to you with another episode! Today, we're going to talk about one of our favorite topics...can you guess what it is? Points and Miles of course! One of our biggest FAQs is - what's the difference between points and miles? We will give you the run down and explain why we prefer flexible points and how to find your fastest path to Traveling On Points to your way dream vacations. To kick things off let's start with the basics. What's the difference between points and miles? Honestly, it doesn't really matter. They're basically the same thing. Points are usually used by banks and hotels, while airlines use miles. But we often use them interchangeably because they both mean free travel! Flexible points: These are our absolute favorite because they're so, well, flexible! With flexible points, you can transfer them to various airline and hotel partners, which means you have so many more options when it comes to booking your travel. Our favorite flexible points come from the Chase Sapphire Preferred card. You can transfer those points to partners like Hyatt, United, and Southwest, which gives you so much more selection when it comes to booking your flights and hotels. On the other hand, fixed point cards, like co-branded cards, are more limiting. If you have a Southwest card, you can only redeem those points for Southwest flights. If you have a Hyatt card, you can only use your points to book Hyatt hotel stays. This can be frustrating if you don't have a lot of options when it comes to redeeming your points. That's why we prefer flexible points because they give us so much more freedom. We also recommend that you focus on collecting flexible points and miles, especially if you don't know what your travel plans are. They give you so much more flexibility and you can transfer them to different partners depending on your needs. However, there are times when fixed-value point cards can come in handy. If you know you're going to book a flight on United, for example, it might make sense to open a United card so you can save your flexible points for something else. Overall, we hope this episode helps you understand the difference between points and miles, as well as shows how to find the best deals for your goals. Remember, the key to traveling on points is being flexible and taking advantage of the best deals and offers that come your way…and of course, have fun! Happy Traveling! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Master Transfer Partner Cheat Sheet: https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/cheatsheet Episode Minute By Minute: 0:02 What's inside today's episode 0:39 Why points and miles are not created equally 2:25 The difference between fixed and flexible cards 6:40 Why it's easier to get Hyatt points with Chase 11:30 The reason why flex points may take you further 14:45 How Jess finds the best deals online 20:43 Alex's Delta tips and tricks 24:00 How to get the most out of Hilton points 27:49 The card Pam never plans on signing up for

Dust off your mouse ears and get ready for a Family Trip to Disney! Hey, it's Alex and Jess here, your favorite part of the Travel Mom Squad! (Just kidding, Pam! We miss you! Pam is our traveling the world, so it's just us two today.) In this show we're going to share some tips on how you can turn your dream trip to Disneyland into reality without breaking the bank. We'll be covering how to save on flights, hotels, and park tickets, all with the help of points and miles. Plus, our own tips and tricks we have picked up after a few Disney trips! So, let's dive right in! First things first, let's talk about flights. We both prefer to fly Southwest, and our favorite airport to fly into is John Wayne, which is around 20-30 minutes away from Disneyland. It's smaller and easier to navigate than LAX. (Which is a nightmare we try to avoid at all costs) Another good option if you can't find direct flights to John Wayne is Long Beach, another smaller airport that's easy to navigate. One of the biggest differences between Disney World and Disneyland is that Disneyland has a ton of hotel options within walking distance, making it much easier to redeem points and miles. It's also a great place to use your free night certificates from co-branded hotel credit cards like Hyatt, Marriott, or IHG. We both had great experiences using our free night certificates at the Hyatt Place, which is perfect for families, as it can accommodate more than four people. It also offers a complimentary breakfast and is just a short walk from Disneyland. Other hotel options we've tried and loved include the Courtyard by Marriott and the Hilton Garden Inn, both of which are also within walking distance of the park. As for park tickets, it's not always easy to find discounts, but it's definitely possible. In this show we share our #1 website which often has discounted park tickets! Additionally, keep an eye out for promotions from Disneyland and credit card rewards programs, as they may offer discounted or even free tickets from time to time. Disneyland is a fantastic destination for a family vacation, and with the help of points and miles, it doesn't have to cost a fortune. We hope our tips help you save money on your next trip to the Happiest Place on Earth. Don't forget to share your own tips and experiences in the comments below. Until next time, happy travels! If you wanna learn more about how to travel nearly free with your family, register for our free masterclass via the link below! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links for This Episode: TMS Get Away Today Affiliate Link Episode Minute By Minute: 1:17 Unpopular Opinion: We like Disneyland over Disney World 4:12 Our tips for options for flying to Disneyland 7:12 The best hotel options for Dinseyland 8:45 Alex's favorite part about staying Hyatt Dinsey 14:38 Deals that still blow our minds 24:17 The best ways to go about getting your park tickets 26:14 Tips on how to earn Disney points quick 30:00 Budgeting tips for your next Disney trip

Hey there, it's Alex and Pam, the Travel Mom Squad! Today, we're going to share a little secret with you - how to score free hotel stays. Yes, you heard us right, FREE! We're talking about hotel free night certificates, and boy, do we have some stories to tell. First off, let's talk about what they are and how you can get them. These are certificates that can be redeemed for a free night's stay at a hotel. You can earn them in a few different ways, like signing up for a hotel-branded credit card or staying a certain number of nights with a hotel. But how do you actually make it happen? Hit play to hear our secrets! We're going to spill the beans on two of our favorite hotel chains that offer free night certificates - IHG and Hyatt. With IHG, you can snag a free night certificate every year by having either their personal or business credit card. The best part? There's no limit on the amount of points you can use to top off your certificate. So, you can stay in some pretty swanky places without breaking the bank. Just ask Pam, who recently used hers to stay at a super cool 50s-inspired hotel in Sydney, Australia! As for Hyatt, they offer a category one to four free night every year on your card anniversary. But that's not all, you can earn additional certificates by playing "Hyatt Bingo" and staying at different brands or by spending $15,000 on the personal card in a year. Plus, once you hit 30 nights or accumulate 30 qualifying elite nights in a year, you'll get another free night certificate. Talk about stacking up those free stays! We've used our free night certificates in all sorts of ways, from watching fireworks on New Year's Eve in Amsterdam to snagging a quick overnight at an airport hotel. The possibilities are endless. So, if you're a savvy traveler looking to stretch your budget, hotel free night certificates are definitely worth exploring. Trust us, your wallet will thank you! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Guide to Marriott Credit Cards: https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/marriott Episode Minute By Minute: 1:02 What free night certificates are and how to use them! 3:25 Pam shares why IHG cards will always remain in her wallet 6:49 Why Jess doesn't have the IHG card anymore 8:42 Hyatt free certificates, you can even play Bingo 12:06 Some of the fun ways the girls have used their certificates 21:35 Marriott free certificates and all the B words 23:23 There is also a Ritz Carlton card 33:52 Last but not least we do have 1 Hilton card 36:30 An amazing stay Alex is really looking forward to

Hey there, fellow travelers! Alex, Pam, and Jess here, also known as the Travel Mom Squad! :) Today, we want to talk to you about our favorite points and the many cards we have that help us earn even more of these points. If you follow us on Instagram @travelmomsquad or read our blog, then you already know that our go-to points are Chase Ultimate Rewards points. Not only do they offer fantastic travel partners to transfer your points to, but there are two best-ever offers on two of our favorite Chase cards that are ending soon. So this is an urgent episode! If you are on the fence about points and miles, this is your chance! It's never been easier to earn points. Let's dive a little bit deeper into these offers on the Chase Ink Business Unlimited and Ink Cash. Not only have the welcome offers increased, but the minimum spend has decreased, which is a rare occurrence. So, if you're looking to maximize your travel rewards, now is the time to take advantage of these offers. The eleveated offers on these cards is ending March 21, 2023 at 9 am ET. Again, we love Chase Ultimate Rewards points. Firstly, they are easy to earn. There are so many cards that earn these points, which makes it easy to accumulate them quickly. Secondly, you can combine your Chase Ultimate Rewards points with anyone else who lives in your household and has a card that earns these points. This makes it convenient for families to pool their points together and book trips. Plus, Chase is the only bank that transfers to Hyatt, which is a hotel brand that we are obsessed with! Being able to transfer points from Chase to Hyatt makes them extremely valuable for us. If you have listened to our recent episodes, you know that we have stayed in some once-in-a-lifetime hotels and resorts thanks to Hyatt! Hit play to learn more! We hope this has been helpful and has inspired you to take advantage of these fantastic rewards. Happy travels! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 0:48 Card offer that are ending soon 1:28 Did you catch this inside joke? 3:01 Why earning Chase points are so easy to earn 6:44 How to open a business a card even if you don't have a business 8:30 The downside of cashback cards 11:33 Easy ways to get 5% cashback 16:11 A quick recap of these great cards! 18:17 How to easily combine points 23:38 Alex's #1 tip for everyone listening 26:29 Why you can earn points quickly with Hyatt 27:49 Our favorite ways to earn Chase points 35:12 How to get more of our tips to unlocking Ultimate Points

Dreaming of a tropical getaway filled with white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and luxurious overwater bungalows? Look no further than French Polynesia's Bora Bora. And the best part? You can make this dream a reality with the power of points and miles. Pam had Bora Bora at the top of her travel bucket list, her dream was to stay at the Conrad Bora Bora, a luxurious hotel known for its exceptional reputation. To make this dream a reality, Pam started collecting Hilton points by getting American Express Hilton cards. Alex shared Pam's dream of staying at the Conrad Bora Bora or the Conrad Maldives. Both the Conrad Bora Bora and the Conrad Maldives are highly sought-after properties, considered bucket list destinations for luxury travelers. At the Travel Mom Squad, we're always on the lookout for ways to make our travel dreams a reality without breaking the bank. That's why we're thrilled to share our recent trip to Bora Bora, where we used our hard-earned points and miles to experience this idyllic destination in style. From the moment we arrived at the airport, we were transported to a world of beauty. The crystal-clear waters and lush greenery were enough to take our breath away, but the adventures and spa experiences we had is really what made the trip so incredible. Whether we were sipping on pina coladas or enjoying a meal, we felt like we were truly living the dream. It's no secret that these top hotels are not cheap, either in cash or in points. However, with a little bit of traveling points know-how, Alex and Pam were able to make their dream trip a reality using their hard-earned points and miles! So if you're dreaming of a trip to Bora Bora or any other luxury destination, don't let the cost hold you back! With the help of points and miles, you too can experience this idyllic destination on a budget. Bon voyage! More Of What's Inside: Why Bora Bora is a bucket list location for many When you see a deal BOOK IT! Our tips for buying points Activities that can come with your Hilton stay What airlines fly into Tahiti Additional charges and what to look out for Why the Airport is so easy to navigate in Bora Bora How many people could fit in an average room The weather in Bora Bora we experienced Why you will never get bored in Bora Bora And much more! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Bookable Hotels with Points Near Bora Bora Episode Minute By Minute: 0:02 What's inside today's content 0:53 Why Pam wanted to go to Bora Bora 7:00 Easy tips for finding additional promo codes 9:18 When Alex and Pam went to Bora Bora together 11:40 A look into our flights to Bora Bora 16:09 Our official review on the hotel breakfast 18:08 Pam's favorite pastries and restaurants from the trip 20:51 The best activities in Bora Bora (Spa, Yoga, Biking and more) 25:22 Tips on flights and our advice on finding the best deal 31:55 How to find even more great places to stay in Bora Bora

Are you one of those people who think that traveing on points is only for individuals or couples, and not for big families? Think again! While it may seem challenging at first, there are plenty of ways to rack up points for families of all sizes! Between all the Travel Mom Sqaud, there are a lot of kids and grandkids that we travel with. Over the years we have picked up some of the best tips in the travel industry and know how to take amazing getaways even on a budget. One important strategy is to take advantage of family rates and deals. Many airlines and hotels offer discounts for families, such as reduced rates for children or free stays for kids under a certain age. Make sure to research these options and compare them to regular rates to see if you can save some extra money. Hit play to hear even more tips and tricks! Another helpful tip is to be flexible with your travel plans. As a big family, you may not be able to stick to a rigid schedule or plan, but this can actually work to your advantage. Being open to different travel dates and destinations can help you find better deals and more opportunities to use your points and miles. And of course, doing your research is still key. Look for loyalty programs and credit card reward programs that cater to families and offer family-friendly perks. Keep track of your points and miles, and don't be afraid to get creative with your travel plans. If you don't know where to start, check out the links below! We have made researching a breeze. So, don't let the misconception that traveling on points is impossible for big families discourage you. With a little bit of effort and strategy, you can make award travel work for your family and create amazing memories without breaking the bank. More Of What's Inside: Tips for booking flights for large groups A look into trips we have taken with our family How and why Pam takes each of her 21 grandkids on a trip What you need to know about timeshares Why traveling abroad could be cheaper than you think The #1 travel tip that Alex recommends for all families How to make your points go even further A common misconception about Traveling On Points And much more! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 0:57 Cutting the cost versus totally free 2:50 There is no "right way" to do this 6:11 Why welcome offers are KEY for big families 8:28 Travel tips for six people to Europe 12:54 Why Alex will always have a Companion flights 16:03 How to get 25% off your kid's Air France tickets 18:16 When Pam bought a timeshare in Hawaii 22:44 How to get 50% off Hyatt rooms with the Family Rate 26:53 Our favorite hotels for families and why 32:38 Tips for finding AirBnB's you can use points for 37:57 Our tips for a timeshare presentation and how to navigate them

We know that travel days can be super stressful, but it doesn't have to be! We've found some awesome credit card perks that make the experience so much better. From lounges where you can rest and grab a bite to eat, to pre-check that allows you to skip the long lines, these tricks will help you breeze through the airport like a pro. In this episode, each of us will share our favorite travel day tips that will take the overwhelm out of your next trip. The best part? You probably have already had access to these upgrades thanks to the Credit Cards sitting in your wallet! So many travelers are walking around with perks that come with cards they already have but just don't know it. Be sure to listen to the end to hear how to find what cards come with perks along with our list of cards we are currently using to unlock easy traveling and airport perks. Hit play to hear more or keep reading for a sneak peek! Airport Lounges: If you're tired of fighting for a spot in the crowded terminal, airport lounges are a game changer. With our Priority Pass memberships, we get access to lounges all around the world, with free drinks, snacks, and even meals. Plus, some lounges even have showers and spa services, so you can arrive at your destination feeling fresh and relaxed. TSA Pre-Check: This one seems obvious, but it can't be overstated what a game changer this is. We can't even count the number of times that TSA pre-check has saved us from missing a flight. With our credit cards, we get free pre-check as a benefit, which means we can skip the long lines and keep our shoes and jackets on. It's seriously a game changer. Global Entry: For those of us who love to travel internationally, Global Entry is a must-have. With this program, we can bypass the long customs lines when we come back to the US, and get to our destinations faster. Plus, it includes TSA pre-check, so you get the best of both worlds. And that's just scratching the surface! Hit play to hear the full list of our travel day tips. Overall, these credit card perks have made our travel days so much easier and more enjoyable. If you're a frequent traveler, we definitely recommend looking into getting a card that offers these benefits. Trust us, it's worth it! More Of What's Inside: FAQ about Global Entry and what you need to know The best tips for germaphobes at the airport Our guide to making airport experience more enjoyable and less stressful Important details about wait times for appointments How to get through every line before your friends Food quality and the best lounges to visit Why pre-check is a must when traveling with Jess How to get your kids TSA precheck for free The story behind Alex's top viewed Instagram Story Why Pam gets the airport 2-hours early And much more! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: How to Get Airport Lounge Access Episode Minute By Minute: 0:02 What's inside today's episode 1:10 Our favorite travel day tips for easy travel 3:25 A funny story about TSA pre-check 5:30 An easy way to get a TSA pre-check appointment 7:46 Cards that come with TSA precheck for FREE 9:51 The difference between Clear and TSA pre-check 13:00 How Clear helped Alex make an important flight 15:49 Pam's guide to Airport lounges 19:42 The Airport lounges with the best food 29:29 The rundown on Global Entry 35:00 Why Pam loves traveling

Do you dream of a tropical getaway filled with sunshine, sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and delicious food? Then you're in luck because we're sharing our favorite three resorts in Mexico where you can use your points to make your dreams a reality. ​​Mexico is often thought of as a popular destination for adults, but it is also a great place for family vacations. Despite what you may have heard, Mexico is a safe and friendly country with plenty of family-friendly activities and attractions. From exploring ancient Mayan ruins to swimming with dolphins, there is something for everyone in Mexico. And hey, if you do want a little more adult time on your trip, don't worry there is plenty of Tequila to go around! :) Recently Alex and Pam stayed at the Hyatt Ziva Cancun the whole family! This all-inclusive resort is a true paradise located on the Yucatan Peninsula and surrounded by beautiful property and turquoise waters. Alex only paid $550 out of pocket for the whole trip! Trust us, you won't regret this stay. Next on our list is The Cape in Cabo. If you want to take a "girl's trip" or have a more upscale experience, Jess says this is the place to be! This modern luxury resort is located in the heart of Cabo and offers stunning views of the famous El Arco rock formation. (Even the standard rooms have this epic view!) With its sleek design and top-notch amenities, The Cape is the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And the best part? You can use your points to book a stay here and experience all the luxury for yourself! And last but not least, our third pick is a resort that is the epitome of relaxation. Hit play to find out what it is! During our conversation, we will also cover our favorite experiences, the best places to eat, the cheapest shuttle options during your stay and more! By the end, you'll have almost everything you need to experience all the fun this country offers! We truly believe that Mexico is one of the best places for Traveling On Points! With its gorgeous beaches, beautiful pools, and delicious cuisine, you'll never want to leave. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today! Find more links and resources to help on your Traveling On Points journey below. More Of What's Inside: Never worry about saying "no" when it's all-inclusive A look at the best buffets in Mexico Why everyone from 7-70 loves the Hyatt Why these stays are great for kids and family Tips for keeping the minibar stocked Why you need to know the Seaweed situation around the year Waking up to the smell of churros How many points and money we spent on each trip How to get "fast-tracked" to Hyatt Globalist status And much more! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Earn Hyatt Globalist Status Without Staying 60 Nights: https://travelmomsquad.com/earn-hyatt-globalist-status-without-staying-60-nights/ Episode Minute By Minute: 0:02 What's inside today's episode 0:40 Your guide to the best Mexico stays 1:05 Why Alex knew Mexico would be a great family trip 3:24 The exact steps you need to take for booking for max value 5:54 Our favorite place to eat in Mexico 8:39 The food trucks and activities around Alex's favorite stay 10:39 Why Pam loved the daily shows 12:57 One traveling tip for everyone with a sweet tooth needs to know 15:24 The Hyatt "globalist" benefits and perks 18:14 Unique sites to see in Mexico 21:48 Some of our favorite restaurants on the beach 23:38 Jess's trip to Cabo and why it was amazing 30:26 The best places to go if you want to swim in the ocean

If you want to enjoy the life of nearly free travel, but are overwhelmed by the idea of keeping track of credit cards, then this episode is for you! And hey, even if you already have a spreadsheet and a card routine, this conversation can still take your points/miles earning to the next level! Welcome back to Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad! In this episode, we're talking to a professional credit card organization and points and miles extraordinaire, Zac Hood, the founder of Travel Freely. We're all familiar with the struggle of keeping track of multiple credit cards, their rewards, expiration dates and security. That's why we were so excited to chat with Zac about his solution to the problem - Travel Freely. If you've listened to past episodes, you already know that this app is one of our #1 tips for all points and miles enthusiast in 2023, by the end of the show, you'll understand why! Travel Freely combines a user-friendly interface with top-notch security features, making it the perfect tool for managing your credit cards. With Travel Freely, you can store all your credit card information in one place, set reminders for annual fees, track rewards, and even see what cards are available to you with the biggest travel earning potential. The best part? It's 100% free and you don't have to give them any sensitive information! Plus, the app's reminders when annual fees are coming up can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Hit play to hear How Zac got the idea for the app, and his great insights on credit card organization and the benefits of using Travel Freely. Give it a try and simplify your credit card management today! Check out the links below or download now: >>Travel Freely | Free Travel App More Of What's Inside: How Zac fell in love with traveling on points When Zac got the idea for Travel Freely Zac's first trip to France and his proposal story Alex and Jess' top reasons they recommend the app The downsides of online using a spreadsheet to keep track How this app helps beginners and pros alike One feature that can help you find the best deals in the game And much more! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Download the Travel Freely App: Travel Freely | Free Travel App Episode Minute By Minute: 0:59 Get to know Zac! 3:55 From Dave Ramsey to credit card points and miles 6:52 Why Zac developed Travel Freely 9:39 Why Zac keeps the app 100% free 12:16 Our favorite feature on Travel Freely 16:28 How this app can save you hours in research 19:16 Why Alex now never misses her annual fees

Greece is a destination that should be on everyone's bucket list. With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, it's a country that has something for everyone. All three of us have had the privilege of visiting Greece and we're here to tell you that if it's not on your list yet, it's time to add it. But maybe you're thinking, "can you still experience the best of Greece without breaking the bank?" The answer is yes, and in today's episode, we're sharing Jess's incredible story of how she went on a luxury vacation to Greece that normally would cost $10,000+ and paid less than $500 out of pocket. So, how did Jess do it? That kind of story is only something award travel can explain! By taking advantage of credit card rewards and loyalty programs, Jess was able to redeem points for flights, accommodations, and hotels. A trip to Greece is something Jess and her childhood best friend had been dreaming about since they were in college. After looking into a trip in their early 20s, they knew they wouldn't be able to afford it on a student's income. It was a dream that sat on the shelf for years until Jess and her friend decided to make it happen by combining their efforts and racking up points together! By the end of this episode, you'll see how fast your dream trip can happen with a little teamwork. Jess started by referring her friend a card with a high sign-up bonus and rewards program that allowed her to redeem (and even transfer points) for travel. Once she had her credit card, they started earning points through her everyday spending. She paid for everything from groceries to gas with her credit card to hit the minimum spend limit to unlock the most amount of points. This allowed them to fly business class flights, stay in $2K nightly hotel rooms, eat for free during their stay and so much more, all thanks to points! Jess's experience in Greece is proof that you don't have to spend a fortune to have a luxury vacation. By taking advantage of credit card rewards and loyalty programs, and teaming up with your travel buddy, you can experience the best of what the world has to offer for a fraction of the cost. So, add Greece to the top of your list and start planning your dream vacation today! To start your points and miles journey or to connect with us, check out the links below! More Of What's Inside: Why we all love Greece Learn from Jess's story and plan your luxury vacation for less Why Jess and her friend have been dreaming about this trip for years How a "travel buddy" can be cheaper than traveling with a spouse Jess went on a luxury vacation to Greece valued at $10,000 and paid less than $500 Why Jess booked her hotel rooms 13 and 10 months in advance Want to transfer points to a friend or family member? Hyatt is it! Jess recommends for a truly luxurious stay in Greece Why Jess thought there was a greenscreen outside her window A look inside one of the fanciest flights you can take And much more! Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 0:05 How Jess went to Greece for only $500 0:47 When Jess first started dreaming about Greece 2:00 How Jess helped her "Award Travel Light" friend 4:38 The best time of year to travel to Greece 5:55 How Jess unlocked so many Hotel points for this trip 10:42 Jess' favorite Hotel of all time 15:29 How to rack up the points to to fly business class 19:30 Why Turkey's Airlines is so fancy 22:33 Mind-blowing experiences are still possible

There are a lot of mixed feelings about Southwest and the Airline overall in 2023. But when it comes to family travel, you just can't beat Southwest, especially when you factor in the Southwest companion pass! But wait! It gets even better. In this episode, we will share our Top 5 Reasons We Love Southwest For Family Traveling on points! The perks of flying Southwest Airlines can be hard to fit into just one episode, but it can't be overstated enough that The Southwest Companion Pass is hands down one of the best deals in travel. This one tip alone can save any family hundreds to thousands of dollars annually in travel costs. This pass allows us to fly a guest for free with every single flight we take on Southwest. That means your spouse, a friend, a relative or anyone you choose can tag along for FREE! We know it sounds too good to be true, but it's not. Earning the Companion Pass is actually pretty easy - all we had to do was earn 135,000 points in one calendar year. And let us tell you, it's not as daunting as it sounds. After this episode, you'll see just how fast you can make it happen! The flexibility, convenience and savings don't stop there. Southwest also has a great cancellation policy. and if the price goes down, you can easily change your tickets and get the points redeposited into your account. Plus, you can cancel up to 10 minutes before the flight takes off and get a full refund or flight credit, which takes the stress out of traveling if things can come up unexpectedly with your busy family. That's just scratching the surface! Hit play to hear more about why we love Southwest, how to find the cheapest flights, how we travel with food for the whole family, the exact steps Jess is taking to unlock her Companion pass this year, and so much more! So, where are you heading next? We hope you take advantage of these amazing perks from Southwest Airlines! To learn more about how to get started, check out the links below! More Of What's Inside: How Southwest Airlines is a game-changer when it comes to booking flights, with their unbeatable cancellation policy. How to get the best deals of the year by booking flights How refund points work for Southwest A feature that's hard to come by in other airlines We speculate and book flights in advance and get more points How many times Alex has used her companion pass Where the Chase credit card rules come into play Why we think the best Traveling on Points Starter Kit comes from Southwest And much more! Links For This Episode: How to Get the Southwest Companion Pass: How to Get the Southwest Companion Pass 2024 All About the Southwest Airlines Credit Cards: All About the Southwest Airlines Credit Cards Links: Free Gifts and Resources To Start Your Points and Miles Journey: Award Travel Academy: Award Travel Academy I https://travelmomsquad.teachable.com/p/thmata?coupon_code=THMWEB150 Our Website: https://travelmomsquad.com Connect With Us: Newsletter signup: https://travelmomsquad.com/newsletter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelmomsquad/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travelmomsquad Facebook group: Travel Mom Squad: Travel on Points | Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 0:04 What to expect from today's show 1:15 Everything you need to know about the Southwest Companion pass 2:55 Why it's so easy to accumulate points 4:06 How Jess is getting her companion pass in real-time 6:22 Where Jess plans to travel in 2023 7:32 How to add different people as your companion 8:36 Our thoughts about the Southwest boarding procedure 14:05 An easy way to get in the A 1-15 boarding class 16:30 Flight change and cancellation perks 20:33 A huge Southwest Perk for parents 22:19 Big family Momma: This will save you tons on checking luggage 25:58 Why you get so much bang for your buck with Southwest Points

Does the amount of credit card offers out there make your head spin? We have been there too! When you first start the process of Traveling on Points, it can feel a little overwhelming, and you can start to question what cards work best for you. In this episode, we go through our top cards and what makes them our favorites. There are a lot of great credit cards out there that can help you travel for nearly free. However, just because some cards work for us, doesn't mean they will work for you. Every Travel journey is as unique as the traveler themselves! We encourage you to get clear about your travel goals, where you want or need to go, when you want to go, and who is coming along for the ride. You'll be amazed how a little intentional planning and goal-setting can make your card selection a breeze! Even though we all have different situations, there are a few rules we follow and standards a card needs to have before it makes the cut and lands in our wallets. Hit play to learn our card criteria, when and why we are willing to pay an annual fee, what makes a card our favorite, plus more. If you have ever wondered about the benefits of having different cards for hotels, business, and airlines, we will explain the difference and how to leverage all three! We will also let you in on the perks and incentives that our favorite cards have to offer such as discounts at our favorite stores, exclusive access to travel lounges around the country, TSA pre-check, and bonus luggage for the whole family, just to name a few. To learn more about the cards we mentioned today, connect with us for questions or to receive a Free Credit Card Consultation, follow the links below! More Of What's Inside: A look into our luxury Airport lounge access Why we love The Chase Sapphire Preferred card Our favorite airline cards and why The difference between the United Quest and the Explorer What you need to know about The American Express Gold Card Cards that give us the most points One card most people don't use for travling on points And much more! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Free Credit Card Consultation: https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/credit-card-consultation Episode Minute By Minute: 0:02 What's inside today's episode 0:55 Let's talk about our favorite cards 1:24 Pam's favorite credit card for traveling on points 7:34 Jess' favorite credit card for traveling on points 11:51 Alex's favorite credit card for traveling on points 16:52 Our favorite airline cards 26:54 Our favorite hotel cards 30:35 Our favorite business card 34:41 Cards that deserve an honorable mention

The "omg, pinch me, is this really happening?" Type moments of life are not just reserved for Disney characters and fairytale stories. Surreal and once-in-a-lifetime moments are possible for everyone traveling on points! Seeing pictures and videos on the internet is one thing, but living it is something different. All three of us can look back at moments and memories we have been able to create because of Traveling On Points that still take our breath away. The best part is we never experienced these moments alone; taking our friends and family along for the journey is what makes it all worth it. Things and items fade, but memories last a lifetime. If you want to leave a lasting legacy and give your kids the gift of travel, this episode is for you! One of our go-to spots for family vacations is the beautiful islands of Hawaii! Most people assume that a trip like this would take years to save points for. However, with the tips and tricks we have picked up over the years, we have found that a trip to Hawaii is one of the best and simplest trips to pay for with points and miles! Some of us even capitalize on a Hawaiian vacation every year. (Almost totally free!) Maybe you are more of a mountain climber or city thrill seeker than a beach babe! Either way, we want to help get you there. In this episode, we share everything you need to know about the best destinations to take the kids, what trips we have planned for 2023 and how we are making them happen, the most magical pool in the USA, the best locations we have been to so far, and more! If you are new to the world of Traveling On Points, you'll also learn our top pick for hotel credit cards and advice on getting started! What's your dream destination? Let us know by reaching out to us via the links below! More Of What's Inside: Marriott or Hilton? Our top pick and why How to get to Hawaii on Southwest Jaw-dropping views we will never forget How we book our flights and hotels with points A British Airways trick all the pros use The benefits of having your parents with you on a trip How we travel to Hawaii for almost to free Why Hawaii is so special for Alex and her family The moments we could have only experienced through Traveling On Points When we saw celebrities in our hotel And much more! Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Access all our posts about Hawaii on the blog Hawaii Archives Episode Minute By Minute: 0:02 What's inside today's episode 1:46 The best hotels in Hawaii that take points 5:11 The best places we have stayed in Hawaii 13:24 Best place to take to the kids 18:16 The flights we take to get to Hawaii 22:01 One of Pam's top tips for Traveling On Points 27:34 The different ways to book your trip 34:57 Why we recommend Hyatt for beginners

Traveling on points has completely changed the way we approach travel. After years of accumulating points and miles, we've been able to take trips that we never could have afforded otherwise. However, it hasn't been all jet-setting and checking trips off our bucket list. After 6+ years, it's safe to say that we have made our fair share of mistakes… In this episode, we pull back the curtain on our journey and let you know some of the most important lessons you can learn. Even though we have made a few mistakes along the way, the feeling of getting to travel without breaking the bank is absolutely amazing and worth the trial and error process and we wouldn't change our journey for anything. Hiccups and bumps in the road aside, we must admit the scale leans heavily in the success department. That's why we will also share our biggest wins! Get a look at our first trips, that made us believers in Traveling on credit card points, why we feel spoiled every time we travel and why we are never going back to our old ways. Once you start collecting points and taking trips for nearly free, you'll discover that it's much easier than you think. Not only that, Traveling on points is more practical than you think as well! Even though we all dream about luxury vacations and flying first class, sometimes life events happen and you need to get somewhere ASAP. In some cases, getting where you want to be, when you need to be there is priceless. Especially if your kids are in sports that require you to travel, or when someone in your family has to see a specialist for a medical issue in another state. These are the types of moments that take Traveling on Points from a hobby to a lifestyle. You may have heard us say before that "Traveling on points is for everyone!" By the end of this episode, you'll understand exactly what we mean. Hit play to find your points path! More Of What's Inside: Mistakes we made with credit cards Our sign-up Bonus mistakes Pam's first trip with points and miles Specific cards that unlock hotel stays You can do whatever you want with traveling on points One surprising thing Alex spent her points on What it feels like traveling for nearly FREE There is a path for everyone in traveling on points Making the process work for your life and goals And much more! Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 0:02 What's inside today's episode 1:00 Pam's biggest mistake traveling on points 5:05 Jess' biggest mistakes traveling on points 7:08 Alex's biggest mistake traveling on points 11:58 Our biggest wins and first free trips 16:48 You can go at your own pace 18:17 Perks of traveling to Asia 21:09 Why Jess Feels Spoiled by traveling on points 28:54 It still feels surreal when we travel for free

If you hear "two-player mode" and "Chase 5/24" and think we are talking about video games, you may need to brush up on your Traveling on Points terminology. If you don't know the lingo, it can feel like everyone speaks a different language in the points and miles world. Never fear; we are here to help! In this episode, we will give you the rundown of all the common terms and lingo you need to know before diving into the deep end of applying for credit cards to earn points. After years of trial and error, we have found some of the best options on the market that can help you earn faster than you thought possible. We aim to help you understand which of the three card options for points works best for you. By the end of the show, you'll know the basics about traveling on points and be ready to start building a strong foundation of cards that fund your dream vacations. After you know how to start, you also need to know how to end things. During this conversation, we will give you a look into our wallets and share our decision making process for when we close a credit card, when we downgrade our cards and let you know what cards we plan never to stop using. We also share our top picks for business cards, what you need to know before making someone an authorized user on your card, how many cards you can apply for a year and more! PS: Don't forget to check out the links below to find all the cards we mentioned if you want to start applying today! More Of What's Inside: The Chase 5/24 Rule and why it matters What we use to track our 5/24 status How we manage the annual fees Why we always keep our cards for at least a year The benefits of the Hyatt card Why Pam loves her American Express card When and why we cancel a card What it takes to keep an account active The benefits of having a business card Cards that will never leave our wallets How you and your spouse can open cards to earn more And much more! Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: Travel Freely App: https://my.travelfreely.com/app_store?bref=hmyt How to Qualify for a Business Credit Card: http://travelmomsquad.com/how-to-qualify-for-a-business-credit-card/ Episode Minute By Minute: 0:02 What's inside today's conversation 0:44 Let's talk about the traveling on points Basics 1:43 The 3 types of cards for traveling on points 4:18 The perks of having transferable points 5:45 Understanding the Chase 5/24 Rule 11:02 Two-player mode and what you need to know 14:42 Think about this before make someone an authorized user 17:42 One card that doesn't have annual fees 20:27 When and why we close or cancel a card 24:48 Cards we will probably never cancel

Are you interested in Traveling On Points but… In the back of your mind, do you worry about the impact on your credit score? Or the time and money required to see results? You're not alone! When we first started with points and miles, we had similar questions! These are common concerns for people just starting out. But here's the thing: award travel is a skill, and like any other skill, the more you practice and understand the process, the better you'll get at it. In this episode, we'll address some of the most common misconceptions about award travel and answer frequently asked questions like: How much money do you need to spend to earn points? How do you maintain a high credit score while collecting points? How much time does it take? How many credit cards do you need to use? We'll also share our #1 tip for keeping your cards organized, and an app you can use as a travel tool to track your points, miles, and credit card offers. This will help you stay on top of your progress and make the most of your Travel experience and make your next trip a breeze! It may sound overwhelming at first, but don't psych yourself out. If we can do it, anyone can! By understanding the common misconceptions and frequently asked questions and by staying organized and consistent, you can become a points and miles pro and enjoy the benefits of free or discounted travel. More Of What's Inside: How does collecting points impact your credit? The misconception is that you just get one card The power of sign-up bonuses How to use credit cards to break up your expenses Planning your card applications around life events How it's easier than ever to get started Our favorite app for traveling Everyone can make time for this (even the busiest moms) And much more! Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 0:02 What's inside today's episode 0:38 Traveling on points misconceptions 1:02 Will this ruin your Credit Score? 2:27 What makes up your credit score 5:22 Why Alex doesn't look at cards APRs 6:17 The power of sign-up bonuses 8:58 How many credit cards Pam opens within a year 10:26 Why you DON'T have to spend a crazy amount of money to earn points 14:31 How Alex earned points from paying medical bills 16:35 Why this lifestyle can fit into even the busiest schedules 18:34 Age isn't a limit! Pam is a grandma of 21 grandkids and still does it. 20:42 The best and easiest way to stay organized

Welcome to the FIRST ever Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad! We are Alex, Pam, and Jess! A trio of Moms who love to travel the world for nearly free, thanks to credit card points and miles. Now we are on a mission to help you and your family do the same! (Without spending more money.) Maybe you may have seen us on a viral clip on TikTok or Instagram with a quick tip or maybe this is the first time you've heard of us! Either way, we are so glad you are here. We've earned millions of credit card points that allowed us to travel the world and take our families on amazing vacations. As you can imagine, there is only so much you can share during a quick video on social media versus a deep-dive conversation. That's why we started this show! This podcast has been a long time in the works, and we couldn't be more excited to share even more tips and tricks you need to know. We believe that anyone and everyone (not just moms) can Travel On Points. To start things off right, we want to debunk the myth that you must be collecting points for years or spend a bunch of money to earn points before going on one of your dream trips. This is 100% a myth and we will prove it! In this episode, we share what traveling on points means, how we got started, and our favorite trips using points and miles. By the end of the episode, you'll be ready to bust out a vision board and start planning all the trips you never thought you could go on. We will give you a look into our favorite trips to Scotland, Greece, Italy, Hawaii, and other amazing places. The best part? Some of these trips cost less out of pocket than a meal at a fast-food restaurant…not even joking. What are you waiting for? Hit play to learn more! PS: Check out the links below to connect with us! More Of What's Inside: How we got started traveling on points and miles Why you need to experience business class A look into the Marriott's overwater bungalow in the Maldives Our favorite trips using points and miles The only thing that makes award travel even more fun Interesting facts about the Singapore economy Why Alex goes to Hawaii every year Pam's couponing blog in the early days of the internet How Jess took her kids across the EU And much more! Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 0:02 What's inside today's conversation 0:48 Our definition of traveling on points 1:35 How we all started traveling on points 3:36 How Alex sold her mom Pam on the idea 7:38 We started the Travel Mom Squad 9:19 Our favorite trips we've taken on points and miles 23:27 Bonus Tip: How we save even more money on food while traveling 24:12 This isn't too good to be true, you can do it too!