Points Talk® with the Travel Mom Squad

In this latest episode, we're taking a deep dive into the often overlooked yet incredibly rewarding world of co-branded airline and hotel credit cards. Imagine jet-setting in business class to the Maldives or unwinding at a luxury resort in Bora Bora—yes, we've done that, and much, much more, all thanks to these specialty cards. We, the Travel Mom Squad (Pam, Jess, and Alex), are here to share the ins and outs of co-branded cards, from the perks that make them invaluable to our personal favorite redemptions. While we often sing the praises of flexible points from cards like Chase and Capital One, co-branded cards hold a special place in our wallets and our hearts. Why, you ask? For starters, they're the gateway to brand loyalty benefits, such as free checked bags, priority boarding, and that all-important annual free night certificate.  Pam kicks things off with her love for the United card, thanks to her proximity to Denver's hub, illustrating the practical benefits of brand loyalty. Jess dives into the strategy behind selecting the right hotel card, emphasizing the importance of a planned redemption. Alex shares her approach to keeping a balanced portfolio of airline points to capitalize on award sales. As we dissect the benefits, strategy, and unforgettable trips enabled by our co-branded cards, you'll see why these often underrated tools are indispensable in our points and miles game. Whether you're drawn to airline perks, hotel luxury, or simply more travel for less, co-branded cards might just be the missing piece in your points and miles puzzle. Ready to turn your travel dreams into reality, from the Maldives to Disneyland and beyond, without breaking the bank? Hit play to listen to the full episode and join us, the Travel Mom Squad, on this points-fueled adventure. Discover how co-branded credit cards can unlock a world of travel possibilities, making every trip more affordable and enjoyable. Your next nearly-free vacation awaits! (Follow the links below)    Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad    Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 Introduction to the benefits of airline and hotel co-branded cards 01:00 Discussion on the value of flexible points vs. fixed points 01:48 Benefits of co-branded cards: Brand loyalty and specific perks 04:27 Real-world examples of co-branded card benefits 05:23 Jess's strategic approach to hotel and airline co-branded cards 07:06 Alex's criteria for opening and keeping hotel and airline cards 11:22 Pam's extensive collection of hotel cards and her rationale 15:53 Keeping vs. closing co-branded cards: When and why 25:18 Favorite redemptions and experiences thanks to co-branded cards 36:04 How co-branded cards fit into our broader points and miles strategy 44:31 Closing thoughts: How co-branded cards can enhance your travel  

In today's episode, we're diving deep into the exclusive world of airport lounges, those serene havens tucked away from the hustle and bustle of crowded terminals. Imagine slipping into a luxurious lounge, where complimentary gourmet meals, cozy seating, and even showers after a long flight become your pre-boarding ritual. Well, Pam, our resident lounge aficionado, insists on arriving hours early just to bask in these tranquil spaces—and honestly, who can blame her? We, the Travel Mom Squad (Pam, Jess, and Alex), are peeling back the velvet rope to give you the inside scoop on how you, too, can access these luxe lounges. It's not just for the suit-clad business traveler anymore; with the right credit card, the world of airport lounges opens up to anyone seeking a touch of luxury in their travel experiences. From the Priority Pass network that spans the globe to the opulent American Express Centurion Lounges and the newcomers like Capital One and Sapphire Lounges, we're sharing our personal favorites and why some lounges have us planning our airport arrival times around a lounge visit. But it's not all about splurging on premium-class tickets. We'll let you in on how certain credit cards offer complimentary access or even ways to purchase entry into these coveted spaces, making the lounge experience accessible for all travelers, regardless of your ticket class. So, whether you're a seasoned lounge visitor or new to the game, this episode is packed with our best tips, favorite lounges, and a few laughs along the way. Ready to transform your travel days with a touch of lounge luxury? Join us on this adventure, and let's explore the best airport lounges around the world together. Hit play to listen to the full episode for all the juicy details and find out why Pam might just start vacationing at the airport!   Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Links From This Episode: https://travelmomsquad.com/airport-lounge-access/ https://travelmomsquad.com/using-priority-pass-at-an-airport-restaurant/ https://travelmomsquad.com/credit-cards-with-priority-pass-lounge-access-2/ https://travelmomsquad.com/american-express-centurion-lounges-review/   Episode Minute By Minute: 00:17 Meet the Lounge Queen: Pam's early arrival for lounge luxury. 01:00 Why we're obsessed with airport lounges: Pam's insights. 03:45 The golden ticket to lounge access: Credit cards that open doors. 03:47 Unveiling Priority Pass: Your passport to hundreds of lounges worldwide. 09:25 American Express Centurion Lounges: A step above in luxury. 13:05 United Club Lounges: Access with one-time passes and the value of United's premium cards. 16:14 Plaza Premium Lounges: An international gateway to comfort. 19:00 Delta Sky Club Lounges: Exclusive access and amenities. 21:26 Capital One Lounges: Unique offerings and the charm of to-go snacks. 23:44 Sapphire Lounge by Chase: A new player in the lounge game. 27:30 Experiencing lounges via business and first-class tickets: Top picks from around the world. 33:50 If you could only choose one card for lounge access: Our picks. 36:00 Exploring the best lounges with business or first-class tickets: Personal favorites. 39:52 Conclusion and how airport lounges transform travel experiences.  

Welcome to another exciting episode of Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad, where today, we're diving into the world of luxury flights. We're sharing our most unforgettable first and business class flights. Join us—Pam, Jess, and Alex, as we turn left upon boarding, stepping into the realm of spacious lie-flat seats, gourmet dining, and exceptional service, all made possible through the savvy use of points and miles.   Why Luxury Flights?   Flying first and business class offers more than just comfort; it's about the entire experience. From exclusive lounge access to onboard amenities like pajamas, amenity kits, and even showers in the sky, luxury travel transforms your journey into a part of the vacation itself.   Throughout the episode, we share not just our experiences but also the lessons learned, like the importance of choosing the right flights to maximize awake time to enjoy the amenities, and tips for booking these luxurious experiences using points and miles. We also delve into the lighter side of luxury flights, from our collection of airline pajamas to debating the best in-flight ice cream sundaes. It's not just about the destinations but the joy and comfort we experience getting there.  Whether you're a seasoned traveler in the points game or just starting out, this episode is packed with inspiration, tips, and a few laughs to guide you toward your next luxury travel experience. Ready to turn your travel dreams into reality without the hefty price tag? Join us on this luxurious journey across the skies. Grab your headphones, or turn up the speaker, and dive into the world of first and business class travel like you've never heard before. And remember, this is just a glimpse into the possibilities that await when you play the points game right.  Hit play to listen to the full episode and embark on this high-flying adventure with us, the Travel Mom Squad! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Links From This Episode: https://travelmomsquad.com/review-of-emirates-first-class-seats-milan-jfk/ ​​https://travelmomsquad.com/flying-etihad-apartments-for-65k-miles/ https://travelmomsquad.com/singapore-suites-dream-flight/ https://travelmomsquad.com/business-class-seats-worth-it/   Episode Minute By Minute: 00:02 Introduction to luxury flights with the Travel Mom Squad. 01:16 Pam shares the appeal of business and first-class travel. 02:02 Highlights of luxury flight experiences: lie-flat seats, gourmet dining, and premium beverages. 03:11 The delight in on-board amenities like amenity kits, PJs, and exceptional service. 06:28 Discussion on Emirates first-class experience. 07:47 Jess reflects on her shift from economy to luxury travel and its worth. 09:23 The trio discusses their first-class experiences and shares specifics about Emirates. 12:13 Pam shares her experiences with Cathay Pacific and Singapore Suites. 14:33 Insights into flying business class, with mentions of Qatar QSuite and Turkish Airlines. 16:41 Pam talks about United Polaris and other memorable business class flights. 18:49 Jess adds her favorite business class flights, including Singapore Airlines. 20:34 The squad discusses the importance of points and miles in achieving luxury travel. 21:55 Questions about the best luxury travel experiences: seats, food, and service.  

Picture this: rooms with sweeping ocean views, sandy beaches at your doorstep, and impeccable service from a team that seems to know what you want before you even ask. Now, imagine enjoying all this luxury at a rate of zero dollars per night. Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, we made it happen at the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, and we're ready to spill all the details.  In our latest adventure, each of us checked into this slice of paradise, leveraging our points and miles for a stay that didn't break the bank. From Salt Lake City to Houston, we navigated the world of airline points, dodging those sky-high prices for direct flights. And then, there was the resort itself – a marvel built into the cliffs, offering breathtaking views and private plunge pools in every room. It's luxury redefined, but accessible luxury, thanks to our trusty points and miles strategy.  Our days were filled with the kind of activities that make you pinch yourself to make sure you're not dreaming. From private cocktail classes that turned us into mixology masters to unforgettable whale-watching excursions, every moment was a blend of thrill and relaxation. And the service? Unparalleled. Whether it was the daily delivery of chips and guac to our rooms or the seamless handling of special requests, the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos made us feel like royalty.  This trip was more than just a getaway; it was a testament to the power of points and miles in unlocking experiences we once thought were out of reach. If you're curious about how we do it, how you can do it too, and all the mesmerizing details of our stay at the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, you need to listen to our latest episode. It's not just a story of travel; it's a guide to living your luxury travel dreams on a budget. So, are you ready to turn your travel fantasies into reality without emptying your bank account? Hit play to listen to the full episode. Let us take you on a journey to Los Cabos, where luxury meets affordability, all thanks to the magic of travel points and miles. Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Links From This Episode: Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal: https://www.waldorfastorialoscabospedregal.com/  Cabo Transfers: https://www.cabotransfers.com/  Cabo San Lucas Tours and Activities: https://cabotrek.com/    Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 Introduction to the Bougie Hotel Experience 00:53 Traveling to Cabo: Flights and Points 03:18 Booking Tips and Tricks 04:08 Booking Experiences: The Good, The Bad, The Unexpected 09:18 Arriving at the Resort: First Impressions 13:49 How to Book the Resort with Points 22:31 Exploring the Resort: Pools, Restaurants, and More 29:20 The Perks and Pitfalls of Hotel Status 30:07 The Cost of Breakfast: A Diamond Status Dilemma 31:19 Dining Delights: Exploring the Hotel's Restaurants 33:27 The Cliffside Dining Experience: A Unique Culinary Adventure 36:37 The Service Experience: A Testament to Attention to Detail 38:22 The Personal Touch: Celebrating Special Occasions 40:09 The Dining Options: From Casual to Fine Dining 43:05 The Extra Touches: From Complimentary Drinks to Personalized Service 48:31 Activities and Attractions: Making the Most of Your Stay 52:42 Exploring Beyond the Hotel: Venturing into Town 54:43 Final Thoughts and Recommendations  

In this episode,  we're taking you on a tropical adventure to Costa Rica, a destination that many dream about but assume is out of reach budget-wise (especially for a family vacation). But guess what? Our special guest, Rob Dulgarian, also known as “Travel Points Rob”, along with his family of seven, managed to explore the lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and breathtaking beaches of Costa Rica without the financial stress, all thanks to the magic of points and miles. Our journey today is a blueprint for making those seemingly impossible family vacations possible. From the moment we heard Rob’s story, we knew this episode was going to be a game-changer for families dreaming of exotic getaways but wary of the costs. Today, we dive deep into the nitty-gritty of planning, executing, and enjoying a family trip to Costa Rica on a budget that feels almost too good to be true. What makes Costa Rica an ideal destination for families, you ask? It's not just the postcard-perfect beaches or the endless opportunities for adventure in its national parks and rainforests. It's the possibility of experiencing all of this without the hefty price tag, thanks to strategic use of credit card points and miles. Rob shares firsthand experiences, from booking flights and accommodations to enjoying local attractions, all while keeping expenses to a minimum. We made sure to pack this conversation full with tips and tricks on how to leverage those points and miles for maximum benefit, making luxury accessible and travel dreams achievable. Whether you're a seasoned points collector or just starting out, there's something for everyone looking to stretch their travel budget further. So, are you ready to discover how you can give your family the gift of an unforgettable vacation without the financial strain? It's time to redefine what's possible with a little creativity and the right strategies. Grab your headphones or crank up the speaker, and let's dive into the lush world of Costa Rica on points and miles. Hit play to listen to the full episode and embark on this journey with us! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Links From This Episode: Tabacon Thermal Resort: https://www.tabacon.com/  Andaz Papagayo: https://www.hyatt.com/andaz/liraz-andaz-costa-rica-resort-at-peninsula-papagayo?src=corp_lclb_gmb_seo_liraz  Secrets Papagayo: https://www.hyattinclusivecollection.com/en/resorts-hotels/secrets/costa-rica/papagayo-costa-rica/  Maleku Tours: https://www.malekutours.com/  Activities: https://travelmomsquad.com/costa-rica-family-activities-to-consider/ Pam’s Past trip to Costa Rica: https://travelmomsquad.com/points-and-miles-to-costa-rica/   Episode Minute By Minute: 00:48 Introduction and Special Guest, “Travel Points Rob”  01:19 Traveling to Costa Rica on Points 03:15 Experiences with Southwest Airlines 04:47 Traveling to Costa Rica with Family 06:02 Traveling to Costa Rica as a Solo Traveler 07:11 Traveling within Costa Rica 12:03 Staying in Costa Rica: Accommodation Experiences 22:42 Activities and Experiences in Costa Rica 30:19 Planning Future Trips to Costa Rica 32:40 Conclusion and How You Can Get to Costa Rica!  

Ever wonder how a journey to Japan, packed with adventure and luxury, can be almost free? Well, buckle up, because Jess's recent trip to the Land of the Rising Sun is nothing short of a travel masterpiece. Imagine scoring business class flights worth over $20,000 for a mere $1,000 in taxes and fees, and luxuriating in nine nights at opulent Hyatt hotels for less than $300. Sounds like a dream, right? But it's exactly what Jess did, and she's spilling all the secrets. With a whirlwind of strategic planning and a dash of spontaneity, Jess and her stepdaughters flew from Chicago to Tokyo on a deal too good to pass up. From the moment they landed, Tokyo welcomed them with its bustling charm and endless explorations. Staying at the Andaz Tokyo, they were treated to breathtaking views, luxurious amenities, and a taste of Japanese culture that's hard to come by. But it wasn't just about the destinations; it was about embracing the beauty of travel, from the exhilaration of flying business class to the serenity of Kyoto's historical sites. This is a vivid reminder of the joys of exploring new cultures, the thrill of luxury travel made accessible through savvy spending, points, and the unforgettable memories created along the way. We explore their journey through Tokyo and Kyoto, showcasing the best of Japan, from the futuristic vibes of teamLab Planets to the timeless beauty of Kyoto's temples and the Park Hyatt's serene luxury. This experience is all about the power of points and miles, turning a dream into an affordable reality. So, whether you're dreaming of neon-lit Tokyo streets or the tranquil gardens of Kyoto, Jess's story proves that with a little know-how and some credit card points, these dreams can become reality. Ready to embark on your own journey of nearly-free travel and create stories to tell for a lifetime? Hit play to listen to the full episode and dive deep into the world of savvy award travel. Your adventure awaits!   Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links From This Episode: Andaz Tokyo: https://www.hyatt.com/andaz/tyoaz-andaz-tokyo-toranomon-hills?src=corp_lclb_gmb_seo_tyoaz  Park Hyatt Kyoto: https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/japan/park-hyatt-kyoto/itmph  SmartEx App (for Shinkansen tickets): https://smart-ex.jp/en/app/download/index.html  Voice Map app: https://voicemap.me/walking-tour-app  Kamakura History Walk: https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/658965    Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 Introduction and Overview of Jess's Japan Trip 00:58 The Journey Begins: Flight to Japan 13:38 Navigating Tokyo: Public Transportation and Accommodation 18:59 Exploring Tokyo: Food, Culture, and Attractions 32:45 Transition to Kyoto: Bullet Train Experience 35:03 Discovering Kyoto: Accommodation and Local Experiences 41:42 Day Trips from Kyoto: Nara and Osaka 41:51 Wrapping Up the Japan Adventure: Final Night in Tokyo 44:31 Reflections and Takeaways from the Japan Trip  

Pam, an expert in booking premium flights, shares her Abu Dhabi journey flying Etihad's luxury apartments using credit card points. From the excitement of securing a deal to the exquisite dining experience onboard, she paints a vivid picture of luxury travel. Embracing spontaneity, she explores the joy of experiencing world-class comfort in the skies, turning a simple flight booking into an unforgettable adventure.

Welcome back travelers! Today, we’re giving you a glimpse into how we choose those fabulous, family-friendly hotels and resorts for our travels. It's all about blending fun, comfort, and adventure for the entire family. Join us, as we share some insights and our top picks that have made our family vacations truly special. Our journey in identifying the ideal family vacation spots is driven by a mission to find destinations that cater to both adults and children. For instance, the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach in California is a prime example. Its beachfront location, coupled with family-friendly amenities and proximity to Disneyland, make it a top choice for a diverse family experience. Venturing to Costa Rica, the Andaz Costa Rica stands out as a perfect balance of luxury and child-friendly fun. From its diverse pool options to the excitement of wildlife encounters, it exemplifies the kind of destination that appeals to all ages. We can’t get over how amazing this resort is and cannot wait to go back!  In Hawaii, the Grand Hyatt Kauai caught our attention. Despite its less swim-friendly beach, the resort compensates with stunning pools and lush landscapes, demonstrating that the allure of a destination can extend beyond the typical beachfront criteria. Texas offers the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines, a resort that combines the tranquility of the countryside with a plethora of activities like water slides and horseback riding, making it an ideal choice for action-packed family getaways. Lastly, the Kimpton Seafire in Grand Cayman has all the versatility needed for family travel. Balancing kid-friendly activities with adult luxuries, it's a splurge-worthy destination offering exceptional experiences. In this episode, we dive deeper into how each of these resorts offers something unique, ensuring memorable family vacations. Hit play now to learn how to plan that perfect family getaway! Plus, follow the links below if you want to get there for nearly free. :)    Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Links For This Episode:  Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Andaz Costa Rica Grand Hyatt Kauai  Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Kimpton Seafire Hyatt Ziva Cancun   Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 Introduction To Our Favorite Family-Friendly Hotels/Resorts 01:18 Exploring the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach 03:50 Delicious Breakfast at Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach 05:10 Discovering the Andaz Costa Rica 08:37 Additional Activities at Andaz Costa Rica 10:33 Experience at Grand Hyatt Kauai 12:24 Comparing Grand Hyatt Kauai and Hyatt Regency Maui 14:42 Unveiling the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines 17:08 Activities at Hyatt Regency Lost Pines 19:14 A Non-Hyatt Option: Kimpton Seafire in Grand Cayman 19:57 Maximizing Your Hotel Stay with Points 20:19 Making the Most of IHG Points 20:51 Benefits of Booking Multiple Nights 22:50 Hotel Location and Amenities 23:16 Family-Friendly Features and Activities 23:51 Water Activities and Kids Club 25:07 Resort Fees and Inclusions 25:26 Overall Experience and Recommendations 31:54 Honorable Mentions: Other Great Family Hotels 36:39 Future Family Vacation Destinations  

Q&A With TMS! Today, we’re getting personal and interactive by answering your questions. We've gathered a fantastic collection of questions from our Instagram stories, and we got to answer as many of them as we could in this episode!  Here is just a sneak peek at some of the tips and tricks we cover:  We tackle common dilemmas such as being an authorized user on a credit card and still wanting to snag the welcome offer.  We also address the post-welcome offer phase—what do you do with your credit cards then? Close them? Keep them open and pay the fee for another year? Something else? We dive into questions asked about our planning process—do we choose our destinations first, or do we follow the deals? We share our mixed approach of meticulous planning and spontaneous deal grabbing, like the amazing flight sale to Singapore we couldn’t resist! A significant part of our discussion revolves around managing annual fees and maximizing the value of our points. So, we decided to open up about our strategies and experiences, demonstrating how to make the most out of those points and miles. And finally, we just couldn’t wrap up this Q&A episode without sharing some of our proudest moments. Are you ready for tips, insights, and more?  Hit play and join us for a deep dive into the art of award travel!    Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Episode Minute By Minute: 01:15 Answering Your Questions: Credit Card Usage 03:39 Answering Your Questions: Strategy After Redeeming Points 08:12 Answering Your Questions: Choosing Destinations vs. Following Deals 12:49 Answering Your Questions: Saving Points vs. Earning and Burning 17:46 Answering Your Questions: Expenses Not Covered by Credit Cards 22:09 Answering Your Questions: Business Cards for 5/24 25:44 Answering Your Questions: Annual Fees 29:31 Our Proudest Moments in Traveling On Points  

Today, we're peeling back the curtain on the Travel Mom Squad – sharing the story of our humble beginnings, the engine that keeps our mission running, and some golden insights for those of you dreaming of starting your own venture. Travel Mom Squad sprouted its roots back in December 2018, with Alex at the helm. Spotting a gap in the award travel community, particularly a lack of family-oriented resources and female perspectives, she set out to create a platform that addressed these voids. Fast forward, we all joined forces, pushing Travel Mom Squad from a passion to a potential business! Running the Travel Mom Squad isn't just about sharing travel tips; it's a business sustained by affiliate links and course sales, like our Award Travel Academy.  But at the core of it all is our passion for traveling on points and the joy of helping others travel more for less. This passion is the lifeblood of our blog posts, podcast episodes, and every piece of content we create! For those aspiring to start their own business, our journey is a true example of how you can turn your passion into a thriving business. We encourage you to learn, grow your email list, and follow your passion – it's the surest path to success. So, are you ready for a behind-the-scenes look into the Travel Mom Squad (and maybe even find inspiration for your own entrepreneurial journey)? Hit play and join us as we explore the business side of award travel! Here's to a journey filled with learning, growth, and unforgettable travel experiences. Happy travels in 2024!   Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Links For This Episode:  Webinar: How to Get Paid to Travel Without a Big Following: https://www.macs-explore.com/alex2  Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 Today’s Episode, All About the Business Side of the Travel Mom Squad! 01:04 The Origin Story of the Travel Mom Squad 03:14 The Challenges and Triumphs of Starting a Business 04:16 The Role of Family in the Travel Mom Squad 06:46 The Birth of Made Possible by Points 10:19 The Merger of the Travel Mom Squad and Made Possible by Points 15:41 The Business Side of the Travel Mom Squad 32:04 Lessons Learned and Advice for Aspiring Business Owners 38:20 Final Thoughts and Motivation to Start Your Own Business!