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

Do you feel overwhelmed by the constant changes in the points and miles world? In this episode, we break down everything that happened in 2025, from exciting new card releases to some challenging policy changes. Whether you're feeling discouraged by the negative headlines or wondering if this hobby is still worth it, we're here to reassure you that there are still plenty of opportunities to earn points and travel nearly free. We'll share our personal experiences with the good, the bad, and the ugly of 2025. You'll learn which new cards are worth keeping, how to adjust to devaluations, and why prioritizing elevated offers and diversifying your points balances is more important than ever. We'll also discuss how we're adjusting our strategies moving forward. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: pointstalksquad.com/165 Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: https://pointstalksquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/ Points Talk is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@pointstalksquad Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/pointstalksquad

How do you decide which credit cards actually earn a permanent spot in your wallet? In this episode, Alex, Pam, and Jess break down the cards they plan to carry daily in 2026 and the thinking behind those choices. Instead of chasing every new offer, they focus on what truly supports their real-life spending, travel habits, and priorities. The Squad walks through the factors that matter most when choosing everyday cards, like whether they are working on minimum spend, earning flexible rewards, or keeping things simple with no-thinking options. Whether your goal is maximizing rewards, reducing mental load, or making travel purchases with confidence, this episode offers practical guidance to help you rethink which cards deserve a long-term place in your wallet. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: pointstalksquad.com/164 Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: https://pointstalksquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/ Points Talk is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@pointstalksquad Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/pointstalksquad

Do you get overwhelmed booking award travel, especially business class flights? In this episode, Alex and Jess are joined by Gunnar Olson and Kyle Potter from Thrifty Traveler to talk through what really goes into finding great award opportunities. They share how they each got started with points and miles, how they approach finding strong redemptions today, and how deal alerts can support trip planning without requiring you to constantly search on your own. The conversation explores the types of routes, programs, and business class products that still tend to offer solid value, including for longer flights or trips that would otherwise feel out of reach. Whether you're just getting started or already booking award travel, this episode offers expert insight into what's working right now and how to think about using points in ways that support how you actually want to travel. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: pointstalksquad.com/163 Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: https://pointstalksquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/ Points Talk is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@pointstalksquad Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/pointstalksquad Get $20 off your first year when you subscribe to Thrifty Traveler Premium: https://thriftytraveler.com/a/tms

How did Alex, Pam, and Jess go from confusion about points and miles to becoming the Points Talk Squad? In this episode, they each share their personal journeys into the world of award travel. From initial curiosity to their first unforgettable trips, they discuss how discovering points and miles changed the way they travel. You'll hear how each of them navigated the learning curve, discovered the thrill of maximizing rewards, and shaped their travel experiences in a new way. Listen in for their stories of overcoming confusion, finding the right strategies, and building a passion for travel that continues today. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: pointstalksquad.com/162 Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: https://pointstalksquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/ Points Talk is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@pointstalksquad Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/pointstalksquad

What are your travel plans for 2026, and how are you using points and miles to make them happen? In this episode, Alex, Pam, and Jess share their exciting plans for the upcoming year. From safaris in Tanzania to river cruises in France, they break down how they're using credit card rewards to book these dream trips and maximize their points. The Squad dives into their strategies for the year, discussing the cards they plan to open and which ones they'll be canceling. You'll also hear about their 2026 trips already booked, including luxury stays and business class flights. Whether you're interested in domestic or international travel, bucket-list family trips, or quick getaways, this episode will inspire you to start planning your travel in the new year with points and miles. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: pointstalksquad.com/161 Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: https://pointstalksquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/ Points Talk is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@pointstalksquad Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/pointstalksquad

What were the highlights this year for award travel for the Points Talk Squad? In this episode, Alex, Pam, and Jess take you through their year of points and miles. The Squad walks through their card openings, closures, and the strategies they used to earn millions of points. They also share how they used those points for family vacations, girls' trips, and more. From Bora Bora to Iceland to Japan, the Squad discusses the destinations they traveled to and how they turned their points into memorable experiences. Tune in hear who opened nine new credit cards, who earned almost 2 million points, and who took 17 trips this year. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: pointstalksquad.com/160 Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: https://pointstalksquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/ Points Talk is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@pointstalksquad Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/pointstalksquad

What should you consider when choosing between Disney's newest Wish class ships? In this episode, Alex and Jess are joined by Megan to continue their comparison of the Disney Wish, Disney Treasure, and Disney Destiny. After sharing first impressions in part one, they now dive into the experiences that shape your trip once you're onboard, from pool decks and waterslides to room locations, ship layouts, and how the itineraries differ. You will also learn about Disney Cruise pricing, how to plan the travel around your sailing, and which strategies can help reduce out-of-pocket costs. The Squad shares how they have used points and miles for flights and hotels, plus onboard booking tips that help make future cruises more affordable. Whether you're planning your first sailing or comparing the Wish class ships, this episode offers clarity and confidence for choosing the right fit. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: pointstalksquad.com/159 Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: https://pointstalksquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/ Points Talk is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@pointstalksquad Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/pointstalksquad

What should you expect when you step onto Disney's newest Wish class ships for the very first time? In this episode, Alex and Jess are joined by Megan to compare their recent sailings on the Disney Wish, Disney Treasure, and Disney Destiny. They share their first impressions of each ship and explore how the theming, atmosphere, and design shape the experience from the moment you enter the grand hall. They highlight the major elements that stood out during their sailings, including the overall vibe of each ship, the stateroom layouts, the dining options, the entertainment, and the ways the design choices create different moods across the Wish class. Whether this is your first sailing or you are already a Disney Cruise Line fan, this episode offers a helpful look at what sets these ships apart and why each one has something unique to offer. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: pointstalksquad.com/158 Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: https://pointstalksquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/ Points Talk is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@pointstalksquad Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/pointstalksquad

Curious whether it's easier to travel with toddlers or teens? Discover the unique joys and challenges of both stages! From managing nap times to enjoying the independence of older kids, hear real stories about travel mishaps and memorable moments. Learn about practical tips for packing, choosing destinations, and keeping kids entertained. Plus, find out how to tailor your adventures to engage teens while navigating airports and planning itineraries together. Embrace the different travel phases and make lasting family memories!

Is Marriott Bonvoy® the secret to luxury hotel stays, or just another confusing points program? In this episode, Alex and Pam break down how to earn, redeem, and maximize Marriott Bonvoy® points. They simplify the complex credit card options and eligibility rules, covering strategies for earning points, using free-night certificates, and enjoying luxury hotel stays. Alex and Pam walk through each Marriott credit card option, explaining the value of free-night certificates and why they often provide better returns than simply accumulating points. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly hotel for a quick stay or hoping to book a luxurious getaway, this episode provides the insights you need to maximize your Marriott Bonvoy® rewards. Tune in to learn which Marriott cards offer the best value and how you can use your points and certificates strategically for your next vacation. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: pointstalksquad.com/156 Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: https://pointstalksquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/ Points Talk is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@pointstalksquad Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/pointstalksquad