Airport lounges aren’t just for the rich, the elite, and the bougie – we think they’re a crucial money-saving strategy for (nearly) all everyday travelers. Gunnar and Kyle argue that lounges are actually a thrifty way to travel, not to mention a fun way to start your trip! They talk about the best, cheapest ways to get into the lounge, some expert tips to maximize your lounge access, and run through some of their absolute favorite lounges around the world. Plus, they talk about using AI chatbots in trip planning, a new welcome offer on their favorite premium credit card, and finally answer the question: Did Gunnar get overserved at the company retreat last month?

Thanks to HotelSlash for sponsoring this episode of the show! Try it out today: Use promo code THRIFTYTRAVELER for a free 90-day trial – plus, get $20 off your first prepaid booking!

00:00 - Our airport lounge order of operations: where to sit, what to do, and Gunnar’s (possibly illegal?) signature move

02:40 - Send us a voicemail! Have a trip to brag about? A question for us? Leave us a voicemail at thriftytraveler.com/voicemail

03:15 - What AI chatbots are helpful for trip planning (Gunnar ranks his top 5) and tips for using AI

08:15 - Something Hot: The Capital One Venture X Card big new bonus offer

13:00 - Something Cold: Federal plan to compensate travelers for delays and cancellations is officially dead

17:10 - Something Colder: United walks back award rate decreases … except for cardholders

18:30 - A word from our sponsor: HotelSlash, the easiest way to book a cheaper hotel stay - & rebook when prices drop

19:30 - The Extra Mile: Airport Lounges ARE Thrifty

29:00 - How to get lounge access – the tickets, status, or credit cards you need to get in, and our favorite airport lounges around the world

58:25 - Listener Question: Xander needs business class flights to his wedding, but prices are crazy right now. What would we do?

01:02:15 - On the spot: Did Gunnar get too drunk at the company retreat last month? His official statement

Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas

Video editing by Kyle Thomas

Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot

Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts!

Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at podcast@thriftytraveler.com

Get 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!

See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

War, Peace and Bitcoin - Col. Douglas Macgregor & Natalie Brunell