Points Talk® with the Travel Mom Squad

Join us today as we dive into how young adults can kick off their journey with points and miles! We’re super excited to have Jess's stepdaughter, Ella, here to chat about her own experiences. Whether you're just starting out yourself or you're a parent wanting to guide your kids, this episode is packed with useful tips and real-life stories. From Basic Banking to Chase Pro Ella shares how she started with a simple Chase checking account and grew into a savvy credit card user. Listen in as she talks about her first steps, from her earliest credit card to mastering the rewards game with Chase, empowering her to both join family trips and venture out on her own. Smart Credit Habits We also tackle the essentials of using credit wisely. It's all about making sure that those nearly-free trips don't end up costing a fortune in interest later… Ella’s Points and Miles Tips Hear straight from Ella about her approach to cards, maximizing perks, and how she makes every point count towards amazing travels. Hit play now to hear all about how you can turn your travel dreams into reality!   Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 - Kickoff: We introduce the focus on young adults starting their points and miles journey. 1:00 - Ella jumps in with her story, starting with her first bank account with Chase. 2:00 - We emphasize the need to handle credit responsibly—think of it like a debit card. 3:00 - Ella talks about her first credit card experiences and the steps she took to build a solid credit score. 5:00 - Discussion on the importance of having a banking relationship, especially with Chase, and how it helps with credit card strategies. 6:00 - Navigating Chase’s 5/24 rule and planning out your credit card applications. 7:00 - Tips on guiding young adults in their first foray into credit cards to ensure they understand their financial responsibilities. 10:00 - How Ella started really accumulating points and learning to save them for bigger rewards. 15:00 - Advice for parents on helping young adults manage their early high-reward credit cards. 20:00 - Ella shares her favorite trips paid for with points, including unforgettable adventures in Japan and Australia. 30:00 - Final thoughts on helping the next generation become savvy travelers through smart credit use.

Join us in this episode as Alex and Pam, from the Travel Mom Squad, share the enchanting details of their separate summer journeys to Greece and other stunning European destinations. While Jess is off exploring Alaska on a Disney cruise, we're here to transport you to the sun-drenched islands and historic cities of Europe.  Alex's Greek Getaway—Alex starts us off with her spectacular trip, which began with an incredible stay at the Canaves Oia Suites in Santorini, a gem she snagged for a steal using Hyatt points (this property is now also bookable with Hilton points/free night certificates). She shares the ups and downs of booking award travel, emphasizing the "book now, plan later" strategy that seasoned travelers swear by. Pam's European Tour—Not to be outdone, Pam recounts her travels to Crete and Vienna, adding layers of history and luxury to the episode. Her adventure began in Santorini, where she embraced the local charm and stunning views, despite some travel hiccups that led to a switch from planned flights to last-minute bookings. Pam's stories highlight the flexibility and spontaneity needed in travel, sharing how she navigated changes and cancellations to ensure a smooth trip. Highlights and Tips—Both share their favorite moments, from Alex's business class experiences and hotel stays with breathtaking views to Pam's exploration of Crete and the luxurious Park Hyatt Vienna. They dive into the details of navigating points bookings, airline choices, and the joys of discovering new destinations. Join Us for the Journey—If you're dreaming of your own European adventure or just love hearing travel tales, this episode is a treasure trove of inspiration and information. Ready to explore Greece and Europe through the eyes of seasoned travelers? Hit play and let Alex and Pam guide you through their memorable journeys. Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Links For This Episode:    Athens by Bike: Athens daily bike tours - What to do in Athens - Best bike tours in Athens   Acropolis Tickets: Online Tickets for Archaeological Sites | e-tickets Acropolis & Slopes   Canaves Oia Suites: 5 Star Hotel In Oia Santorini | Canaves Oia Suites   Airbnb’s Pam has stayed at: Rental unit in Oía · ★4.99 · 2 bedrooms · 2 beds · 1 bath Home in Oia · ★4.80 · 2 bedrooms · 2 beds · 1 bath Dome in Oia · ★4.96 · 1 bedroom · 1 bed · 1 bath   Ones I would like to stay at: Serviced apartment in Oía · ★4.95 · 1 bedroom · 2 beds · 1 bath Cave in Oia · ★4.92 · 1 bedroom · 2 beds · 1 bath Episode Minute By Minute: 1:45—Alex spills the secrets on snagging dreamy stays like the Canaves Oia Suites using Hyatt points. 5:30—Join Alex as she navigates the skies in business class with Condor Airlines 10:00—Pam explains how unexpected changes add a sprinkle of spontaneity and excitement to her travels 15:30—Pam shares the wonders of Crete 20:45—Experience the elegance of Vienna with Pam at the stunning Park Hyatt 25:30—Discover how Alex and Pam turn travel mishaps into adventures, proving that flexibility is key to a fulfilling journey with points. 40:45—Closing thoughts on their European escapades, inspiring listeners to turn points into passports to the world.

Welcome back to another episode with the Travel Mom Squad! Today, we're pulling back the curtain on our own points and miles blunders. Yes, even the pros goof up sometimes! We’re sharing our mishaps not just to entertain you (though some of these stories are pretty amusing), but to help you learn from our experiences so you can navigate the points and miles world more smoothly. Real Mistakes from Real Travelers First up, Alex talks about the time she accidentally set her credit card payment to the minimum due instead of the full statement balance. It’s a simple checkbox mistake that led to unnecessary interest charges. It’s a crucial reminder to double-check your autopay settings, ensuring you’re not paying more than you should. Pam, often nicknamed 'Quick Start Pam,' dives into several of her own memorable mistakes, from overlooking important details like the Chase 5/24 rule to booking a hotel for the wrong date. She highlights the importance of slowing down and double-checking every detail, especially when dealing with bookings across different time zones. Learning the Hard Way Hear about Jess’s adventure of nearly leaving her companion behind on a flight to Costa Rica because she delayed adding a companion to her Southwest flight. This story underscores the importance of managing travel bookings proactively, especially when using features like the Southwest Companion Pass. Takeaways to Make You a Better Traveler Through these tales, we underline a universal truth: mistakes happen, but they don’t have to define your travel experience. With each slip-up, we’ve learned valuable lessons about paying attention to details, the importance of confirmation checks, and the benefits of being meticulously organized. Don’t Let Errors Discourage You In closing, remember that every error provides a chance to learn and improve. Whether it's setting up payment reminders or thoroughly reviewing your travel itineraries, these lessons are priceless for making your future travel both smoother and more rewarding. So, ready to learn from our faux pas and make your points and miles journey foolproof? Hit play to dive into the full episode for all the juicy details and key tips to keep you savvy on the road!   Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 - Kickoff: We dive into why even seasoned travelers like us still make mistakes with points and miles. 1:15 - Alex's Autopay Alert: Hear how a simple checkbox error cost Alex more than just money. 3:30 - Pam's Planning Pitfalls: Discover the chain reaction of errors that started with one rushed decision. 6:00 - Jess's Companion Pass Cautionary Tale: A nearly disastrous oversight with the Southwest Companion Pass—avoid this at your next booking! 8:25 - Lessons Learned: We share key strategies to prevent these common errors in your travels. 10:45 - Wrap-Up: Summing up our stories with a reminder of how each mistake has a lesson and encouraging listeners to share their own blunders.  

Welcome back to another episode of Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad where today we dive deep into one of our favorite topics: the Chase Ink credit cards! These cards could be a game-changer in maximizing your travel points. Why We Love Chase Ink Cards In this episode, Alex, Jess, and Pam share their insights on why the Chase Ink cards are indispensable tools in their credit card arsenal, especially for business owners or anyone with a side hustle. From easy eligibility to incredible rewards, these cards pack a punch without the hefty annual fees. Qualifying Is Easier Than You Think First off, Alex breaks down the common misconceptions about qualifying for business credit cards. You'll be surprised to learn how many activities count as business operations. Plus, Jess adds her perspective on how these cards fit into broader credit strategies without affecting your Chase 5/24 count. Meet the Chase Ink Family Visit Our Best Cards Page to see all of the Ink Business Cards we love! Discover which card (or cards!) might be right for you, how to leverage their benefits, and why having more than one Ink card can be advantageous. Jess and Pam discuss the optimal use of each card, highlighting the perks like cash back options, bonus points on business expenses, and exceptional introductory offers. Getting the Most Out of Your Cards Lastly, we cover practical tips for applying and managing these cards, ensuring you get the most out of the generous reward structures without falling into common pitfalls like foreign transaction fees or mismanaging benefits. So, whether you’re planning to expand your credit card strategy or just curious about what business cards can offer, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice. Ready to turn your business expenses into travel experiences? Hit play to unravel the secrets of Chase Ink cards with us, the Travel Mom Squad! Links: Find All the Ink Cards Here How to Fill Out a Business Card Application: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C9cjtNUq9RF/?igsh=YXhxaWJ0M3o0NW5p   Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Episode Minute By Minute: 1:14 - Why Chase Ink Cards are Essential for Traveling on Points! 2:37 - How to Qualify for Chase Ink Cards with Minimal Business Activity 5:00 - Overview of Each Chase Ink Card and Their Benefits 6:19 - The Advantages of Holding Multiple Ink Cards 9:58 - Tips for Applying for Chase Ink Cards and Common Misconceptions 12:04 - Discussing the Specific Benefits of Ink Cash and Ink Unlimited 14:27 - Exploring the Premium Features of the Ink Preferred Card 16:49 - Utilizing Business Spending to Earn Massive Rewards 18:35 - The Lesser Known Chase Ink Premier Card Explained 20:47 - Closing Thoughts and Recommendations on Chase Ink Cards 22:00 - How to Support the Show Using Affiliate Links! :)

Ever wondered how the Travel Mom Squad makes those dream trips happen using points and miles? Well, buckle up because in today’s episode, we're diving into our latest bookings and the clever strategies behind them. From spontaneous deals to meticulously planned adventures, we’ve got a load of tips and tales that could turn you into a points and miles guru, too. Join us as Alex kicks things off with a jaw-dropping deal to Spain. Imagine snagging business class tickets for the price of economy! Thanks to an alert from Thrifty Traveler Premium, Alex, along with Jess and Pam (albeit on different flights), managed to book business class seats to Spain for an incredible points price. Hear how they navigated limited availability and strategic airport choices to make the most of their miles. But that's not all. While Alex and Jess will be enjoying the luxuries of business class together, Pam shares her solo travel charm, opting for a different route but meeting up in Spain nonetheless. The excitement doesn't stop in Spain though; they’ve got their eyes set on exploring both Madrid and Barcelona, with luxurious stays planned at Hyatt properties. In this episode, we also get a peek into their future travel plans and how they intend to use their points for upcoming trips. Whether it’s leveraging hotel points for lavish stays or choosing the right credit cards for accessing those hard-to-snag flight deals, the squad leaves no stone unturned. So, whether you're planning your next big adventure or just dreaming about your first points-funded trip, this episode is packed with actionable advice and infectious excitement. Ready to turn your travel dreams into reality without the hefty price tag? Hit play and join us on this globe-trotting journey powered by points and miles. Your next epic adventure awaits! Links: Thrifty Traveler Premium: Use code TMS to save $10 on your first-year subscription http://thriftytraveler.com/premium Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Episode Minute By Minute: 0:45 Alex's Exciting Alert: Business Class to Spain for Economy Prices 3:20 Booking Strategies: Navigating Limited Seat Availability 4:55 Why We Chose Different Flights and Airports 6:10 Jess and Alex's Plan: Flying Out of Dallas 7:30 Pam's Solo Flight Strategy: The Benefits of Traveling Alone 9:00 Anticipating the Luxuries of Business Class 10:15 Planning Our Stay in Madrid and Barcelona 11:40 Future Travel Plans: How We Use Points to Plan Ahead 13:20 Tips for Using Points for Hotel Stays and Luxurious Experiences

The world of points and miles is always changing! But we've got you covered and are about to catch you up to speed! Join us, Pam, Jess, and Alex, as we dive into the significant updates that have swept through the travel rewards scene in 2024. From complex credit card rules to unexpected shifts in hotel affiliations and lounge access, we're unpacking everything you need to know to stay ahead in the points game. We’ll explore the new twists in Amex card eligibility that could impact your strategy for accruing points, and discuss the surprising changes in hotel partnerships that might influence where you book your luxury stays. Plus, we’re breaking down the latest updates in lounge access—some of which might actually improve your time at the airport! Whether you're plotting your next escape or just dreaming about those plush, first-class seats, this episode is packed with essential tips and a healthy dose of humor to guide you through the latest developments in the world of travel rewards. Ready to get the full scoop? Hit play to listen to the entire episode and navigate the ever-evolving landscape of points and miles with your favorite Travel Mom Squad! PS—If you are new here…your next big trip might just be a few points away! :) Get started now and learn how to travel nearly free by following the links below. Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Links for This Episode: Changes to Hyatt's Loyalty Program - Travel Mom Squad   Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 Introduction to major changes in the points and miles world in 2024. 1:06 Overview of changes to Amex personal cards' eligibility rules. 2:46 Discussion on the strategic use of Amex cards to maximize benefits. 5:28 Changes to Delta personal cards and their impact on strategy. 8:32 Shifts in partnerships with boutique hotel brands like Mr. and Mrs. Smith. 13:06 The impact of losing Small Luxury Hotels from Hyatt to Hilton. 18:52 Updates to Global Entry cost and its effect on families. 24:49 Changes to lounge access privileges for various credit card holders.

Are you dreaming of your next big adventure but worried about your budget? Buckle up because today, we, the Travel Mom Squad, are diving into each of our bucket list destinations and how we would get there using points and miles. From the bustling markets of Morocco to the northern lights of Iceland, we're sharing our secrets to making these dream trips a reality—nearly free! Join us as Pam spills the details on her ultimate bucket list adventure—a round-the-world trip that's more affordable than you'd think, thanks to some savvy points planning. She's got her sights set on Morocco next, with a detailed plan to explore the vibrant streets of Marrakesh and the historical depths of Fez, all on points and miles.  Not to be outdone, Alex is plotting a dream trip to Thailand, the land of stunning beaches and delicious street food. She discusses the best ways to leverage Singapore Airlines' generous routing rules to score affordable travel in style and how to make the most of hotel points for stays in breathtaking locations like Phuket and the Hilton Conrad in Koh Samui. Jess, with her adventurous spirit, talks about her dream to witness the Northern Lights in Iceland and how she'd maneuver her points strategies to make it happen. From flying to Manchester on Singapore Airlines and catching a budget flight to Reykjavik, Jess outlines her plan to use points creatively for a trip that combines natural wonders with urban exploration. So, whether you're dreaming of sipping mint tea in the Moroccan sunset or exploring the lush landscapes of Thailand, this episode is your gateway to turning those dreams into reality with points and miles. Ready to start planning your own epic adventure? Hit play to join us on this thrilling journey. Your next big trip might just be a few points away! Links: Awayz: https://awayz.com/ Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad:  stan.store/travelmomsquad   Episode Minute By Minute: 1:03 Introduction to Dream Bucket List Trips using Points and Miles 2:20 Pam's Introduction to Morocco Trip using Points and Miles 5:15 Details on Booking Flights to Morocco with American Airlines Miles 7:10 Pam Explains Staying at the Park Hyatt with Suite Upgrade Awards 9:35 Alex's Thailand Adventure on Points and Miles 12:20 Using Singapore Airlines Miles for Affordable Travel to Thailand 15:45 Hotel Strategies in Thailand Using Points 18:30 Jess Shares Her Plan for Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland 21:25 Strategy for Flying to Iceland Using Singapore Airlines Miles 24:30 Accommodation Options in Iceland Using Points 27:15 Recap of How Points and Miles Make Dream Trips Possible  

Curious about keeping your travel rewards game strong over the long haul? Today, we're diving deep into the world of travel rewards, sharing our top strategies for earning points and miles that keep on giving. We're Pam, Alex, and Jess, and we're here to uncover the methods that keep our points balances healthy year after year. Join us as we share our favorite approach: credit card welcome offers. It's the gold mine for anyone in the points game, providing the biggest returns with the least effort. Imagine turning everyday spending into free flights and luxury hotel stays—yes, it's entirely possible with the right signup bonuses! But it doesn't stop there. We know not everyone wants to juggle multiple cards. So, we're also breaking down how you can maximize points through daily spending without signing up for new cards every month. From shopping portals like Rakuten to maximizing category bonuses on existing cards, we've got the insider tips that make every dollar count. And for those who think they might run out of cards to open, we have some reassurance: with new cards hitting the market and old favorites making comebacks, there's always a way to refresh your wallet with lucrative opportunities. Ready to boost your travel rewards strategy and keep those points coming for years? Hit play to dive into this treasure trove of tips and tricks with us, the Travel Mom Squad. Your next dream vacation could be just a few points away! Links For This Episode:  Pam’s Rakuten link: http://www.rakuten.com/r/PAMIOR?eeid=28187  Jess’s Rakuten link: https://www.rakuten.com/r/PWRJES?eeid=28187 Alex’s Rakuten link: http://www.rakuten.com/r/ALEXPA114?eeid=28187 Cardpointers affiliate link: https://cardpointers.com/travelmomsquad  ‌Cashback Monitor: https://www.cashbackmonitor.com ‌Chase My Bonus: http://Chase.com/mybonus   Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Episode Minute By Minute: 0:02 How to Never Run Out of Points and Nearly Free Trips!   1:12 Unlocking the Power of Credit Card Welcome Offers (HUGE Tip!) 2:38 Alternative Methods for Earning Points Without New Cards 4:00 Why We Skip Low-Return Strategies Like Dining Rewards 5:23 Shopping Portals and Referral Points Explained 7:06 Strategies for Reapplying and Managing Credit Card Rules 11:22 Maximizing Bonus Categories for Everyday Spending 15:53 Strategic Use of Points for Travel and Upgrades 25:18 The Importance of Strategy in Points Accumulation 36:04 Leveraging Business Expenditures for More Points 44:31 Keeping Track of Points and Planning for Future Travel

Ever wonder how some travelers seem to live the dream, jetting off to amazing destinations without breaking the bank? Well, buckle up because today, we're diving deep into the world of points and miles and how they've transformed our travel lives. From the simple joys of taking a family vacation without financial stress, to the luxurious experiences of business class flights and top-tier hotels, we're sharing it all. In this episode, we explore what a 'Rich Points Life' means to each of us. For some, it's about stretching every point to create unforgettable family memories. For others, it's indulging in the luxury of business class and staying at five-star resorts without touching their savings. We discuss how our travel goals have evolved from basic getaways to extravagant global adventures, all thanks to the magic of points and miles. Hear from Pam, who uses her points to ensure travel is always on the agenda without dipping into retirement savings. Jess talks about maximizing family visits and the freedom to travel more often without the financial pinch. And Alex shares how she balances her love for luxury stays with practical family getaways. Ready to turn your travel aspirations into actual itineraries? Hit play to listen to the full episode and embark on your journey of mastering points and miles with us. Your next adventure awaits, just a points redemption away!    P.S.: Follow the link below to start traveling on points right away!    Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Episode Minute By Minute: 01:00 Alex opens up about her first experiences with points and miles, aiming for a getaway with her husband. 02:28 Hear how Alex's goals evolved from simple trips to dreaming bigger with her family. 05:39 Pam discusses her transition from working extra shifts to using points for her travels, and planning for a financially secure retirement. 10:50 We share how our travel strategies have shifted over the years, highlighting specific moments that changed our perspectives. 17:00 Alex details how her travel preferences have matured, now prioritizing luxury hotels and memorable family vacations. 23:18 Pam reveals how she maximizes her travel opportunities using points, from spontaneous bookings to regular luxurious escapes. 31:56 Jess reflects on the flexibility and stress-free travel that points and miles have enabled, enhancing her family’s travel experience. 37:34 We wrap up by discussing the transformative impact points and miles have had on our lives, and how they continue to shape our travel dreams.

Ever dreamt of staying in luxury hotels from Paris to the beaches of Hawaii without breaking the bank? Well, buckle up, because today we’re diving into some of our all-time favorite hotels we’ve booked using points. From budget-friendly options that deliver luxury experiences to family-friendly resorts and bucket-list worthy stays, we’ve got you covered. Join us, Pam, Jess, and Alex, as we share the ins and outs of our favorite stays booked on points. Imagine snagging a room with breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower or unwinding in a luxurious suite in a Scottish castle, all made possible by savvy use of hotel points. Today, we spill all our secrets on how we make these dream stays a reality, from maximizing hotel loyalty points to choosing the right credit cards for free night awards. Whether you’re planning a solo adventure, a romantic getaway, or a full-on family vacation, you’ll discover how to make the most out of every point for stays that feel like a splurge—without the splurge. So, are you ready to turn your travel dreams into reality with points? Hit play to listen to the full episode and start mapping out your next luxurious getaway on a budget! Links Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad  Links For This Episode Free Guide to Hotel Room Upgrades: https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/hotel-upgrade   Episode Minute-By-Minute: 0:02 Unveiling Our Top Hotels Booked on Points! 1:09 Exploring Budget-Friendly Luxury: Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile 3:40 Hidden Gem: Spring Hill Suites in St. George, Utah 6:04 Pam’s Pick: Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City 9:01 Family Favorite: Hyatt House Anaheim Near Disneyland 11:30 Bucket List Stays: Dreaming of Castles and Unique Destinations 14:40 Beachfront Bliss: Marriott Wailea Beach Resort, Maui 19:07 Discovering the Kimpton Grand Roatán 23:51 Family Adventures: Hyatt Ziva Cancun and Its All-Inclusive Charm 28:52 Exploring Texas: The Fun-Filled Hyatt Regency Lost Pines 36:17 Luxurious Escapes: Secrets Impression Moxché and Andaz Singapore 41:45 Dreaming Big: Future Stays and Bucket List Hotels