Smart Travel: Upgrade Your Getaways

Dive into the spooky world of Halloween travel as the hosts unveil the surge in festive getaways. Discover the thrill of haunted attractions like Universal's Horror Unleashed and Disney's Halloween parties, while weighing their costs and value. Get insider tips on scoring flights and accommodations, and how to enjoy Halloween on a budget. Plus, find out the hottest U.S. destinations for Halloween fun and practical advice on packing costumes and managing childcare. It's a hauntingly good guide to maximizing your thrills without breaking the bank!

Julian Kheel, founder of PointsPath and a tech innovator in travel, shares expert insights on maximizing travel rewards. He reveals how his browser extension simplifies the points versus cash dilemma in booking flights. Listeners learn about leveraging partner programs, spotting transfer bonuses, and the best times to redeem miles. Kheel warns against hoarding points and highlights the importance of balancing travel comfort with costs. He also debunks common myths, showcases trending destinations, and emphasizes smart decision-making for value-driven travel.

Henley Vazquez, cofounder of Fora, discusses how aspiring travelers can transform trip planning into a lucrative part-time gig. She delves into the commission structure, emphasizing benefits like flexible training and community support. Listeners learn about trending destinations such as luxury cruises and secondary cities, as well as helpful tools like the Price Drop feature for securing the best deals. Henley's insights highlight making travel advising accessible and engaging for those looking to monetize their passion.

The Platinum Card® from American Express announced that its annual fee just went up. Learn how to decide if the new credits, perks, and lounge access are worth it. Is the Amex Platinum worth its higher annual fee? How do you maximize new statement credits without lifestyle creep? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss the Amex Platinum’s updated perks, including dining, hotel credits, and streaming, to help you understand whether its perks outweigh the new $895 annual fee. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including a limited-time Chase Sapphire Preferred restaurant promotion, a Hilton points devaluation at luxury brands like Waldorf Astoria, and San Diego International’s Terminal 1 reopening with improvements to its parking, seating, and TSA checkpoints. Then, Meghan and Sally dig into the Amex Platinum overhaul, with tips on stacking quarterly dining credits, booking through Fine Hotels + Resorts (FHR) for added perks, and valuing lounge visits against airport food costs. They also cover how to split hotel credits across the year, make the most of digital entertainment subscriptions, and avoid overspending just to “use the credits.” The conversation closes with comparisons to Chase Sapphire Reserve, Capital One Venture X, and the Amex Gold Card, plus guidance on whether to keep the Platinum based on city access, travel frequency, and realistic usage. Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews: American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-platinum  Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-preferred Hilton Honors Aspire Review: Rich Rewards, Luxury Perks for a Price https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/hilton-honors-aspire  Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve Capital One Venture X Review: A Worthy Option Among Premium Cards https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/capital-one-venture-x  American Express Gold Card Review: Dining Rewards Royalty https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-premier-rewards-gold  Resources discussed in this episode: How Much Are Travel Points and Miles Worth in 2025? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/airline-miles-and-hotel-points-valuations  5 Best Credit Card Points Programs and Who They Partner With https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/heres-how-you-can-transfer-your-points-from-any-major-credit-card-issuer  Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.   In this episode, the Nerds discuss: Amex Platinum annual fee, Amex Platinum credits, Amex Platinum lounge access, Centurion Lounge access, Fine Hotels and Resorts credit, Amex Platinum hotel credit, Rezzy dining credit, digital entertainment credit Amex, Hilton points devaluation, Waldorf Astoria award points, Hyatt award chart, booking direct vs travel portal, hotel elite night credits, transfer partners comparison, maximizing quarterly credits, travel credit stacking, lounge food vs airport meals, lifestyle creep with statement credits, city vs non-city card value, dining reservation platforms comparison, Chase Sapphire Reserve vs Amex Platinum, Capital One Venture X vs Amex Platinum, Amex Gold vs Platinum, budgeting for premium annual fees, how to decide if premium credit cards are worth it, balancing multiple premium cards, real-world math on credit card perks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how an entire family traveled to Europe on points, including business class flights, boutique stays, and mountain escapes. How do you book business-class flights to Europe for a family of four using points? How do you cover hotels and vacation rentals with rewards while meeting Europe’s room occupancy rules? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle talk with Erin Hurd, NerdWallet’s director of travel, about her family trip through the countries of Georgia and Turkey. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including Southwest and T-Mobile offering free Wi-Fi to Rapid Rewards members, a limited-time sign-up offer on a major hotel card with annual free night certificates, and boosted welcome offers across several Delta credit cards, along with updated Sky Club visit rules. Then, Erin explains how she booked four business-class seats to Europe using points while keeping taxes and fees in check. She explains how to unlock savings by comparing partner award charts and highlights a hidden perk on Air France/KLM’s Flying Blue program that offers discounted award tickets for kids. The conversation then turns to lodging, with Erin breaking down her strategy for mixing hotel points, free night certificates, and bank travel portals to secure family-sized rooms and unique stays. They explore how to stretch certificates with points, when to use portals to book boutique properties or cabins, and how Hyatt’s suite upgrade awards can add extra space for longer trips. The conversation also covers smart ways to search for award space for families, how to use a “player two” approach to double household credit card bonuses, and why even Europe’s stricter occupancy rules can be managed with the right planning. Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews: IHG One Rewards Premier Review: Free Nights on a Silver Platter https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/ihg-credit-card  Delta Reserve Credit Card: $650 Annual Fee, Sky Club Access https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/delta-reserve  American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-platinum  Delta SkyMiles Gold AmEx Review: Pricey for What You Get https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-gold-delta-skymiles  Delta SkyMiles Platinum AmEx Review: One Big Perk Pays the Fee https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-platinum-delta-skymiles  Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Review: Free Night Award, Elite Status https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/marriott-bonvoy-boundless  Capital One Venture X Review: A Worthy Option Among Premium Cards https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/capital-one-venture-x World of Hyatt Card Review: Lavish Benefits, Reasonable Cost https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/world-of-hyatt Resources discussed in this episode: The Best Travel Credit Card Welcome Bonus Offers Right Now https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/top-rewards-credit-card-offers  Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Craig Joseph, a key member of NerdWallet's travel team, sheds light on the evolving value of points and miles for 2025. He discusses whether to opt for flight vouchers or airline miles, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making. Tune in for insights on maximizing loyalty programs, the benefits of recent airline partnerships, and tips for saving points on close-in bookings. Craig also offers a spicy take on airport lounges and explores the challenges posed by recent devaluations in travel rewards.

Learn how to get into airport lounges, stretch rewards for family travel, and score the best cruise deals from New York. How can you get into airport lounges if you don’t have elite status? What’s the cheapest way to book a cruise from New York? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle dig into your questions about airport lounges, family travel, cruise deals, and Disney trips to help you plan your next adventure with confidence. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including drops in vacation rental occupancy, trending U.S. and international fall destinations, and which airlines and airports are offering the cheapest domestic and international flight deals. Then, Meghan and Sally tackle listener questions on cruise timing, airport lounge access, and Disney planning. They explain how to maximize savings by booking during wave season, how to identify pay-as-you-go lounges when you don’t have status, and whether Disney’s dining and photo packages are worth it for families. They also explore strategies for booking award travel for groups, when to consider travel agents for Disney, and how curated hotel collections stack up. Listener tips round out the show, from thrifting travel wardrobes abroad to smart packing strategies that keep costs low and suitcases light. Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews: Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve  Capital One Venture X Review: A Worthy Option Among Premium Cards https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/capital-one-venture-x  American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-platinum  Resources discussed in this episode: Setting Sail in 2025? Here Are the Cheapest Months to Cruise https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/cheapest-month-cruise  4 Workarounds to Book Your Holiday Vacation Rental With Points https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/credit-cards/4-workarounds-to-book-your-fall-vacation-rental-with-points  Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.   In this episode, the Nerds discuss: New York cruise deals, best time to book a cruise, wave season cruise booking, cheap cruises from New York, cruise insurance hurricane season, airport lounges San Diego, pay as you go airport lounges, priority pass lounge access, family vacation booking with miles, booking hotels with points Europe, Hyatt points transfer value, vacation rentals with points, Expedia fall travel outlook, trending fall destinations 2025, cheapest airlines for domestic flights, cheapest airports for international flights, Southwest cheap flights, Orlando cheap flights Caribbean, cheap Cancun vacation rentals, Disney dining plan, Disney World meal plan, Disney Memory Maker photo package, Disney stroller rental tips, Disney travel agent vs booking direct, booking Disney with points, Disney world with toddlers, Amex fine hotels and resorts program, Capital One Premier Collection hotels, thrift store travel tips, packing light for Europe, travel tips for families, booking cruises on Black Friday, Travel Tuesday cruise deals, and cruise line email alerts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Budget smarter for study abroad and learn how to cover costs with scholarships, aid, and credit cards. Plus: get the inside scoop on Alaska Airlines’ new premium airline credit card. Can you save money by studying abroad? What scholarships and financial aid can actually cover international programs? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss the costs and benefits of studying abroad. But first, they unpack the latest travel headlines, including Alaska Airlines’ new premium airline credit card, the Atmos™ Rewards Summit Visa Infinite® Credit Card, and the launch of Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines’ new Atmos Rewards program. They also share highlights from Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas cruise ship. Then, NerdWallet writer Eliza Haverstock, who specializes in higher education and student loans, joins Meghan and Sally to explore study abroad planning, with tips and tricks on budgeting for overseas living, using scholarships and federal aid, and managing unexpected costs like visas and exchange rates. They also discuss student-friendly credit card options, strategies to build financial habits abroad, community college and short-term programs, and the long-term career and personal benefits of global experiences. Take the Smart Travel Podcast Listener Survey 2025 and enter to win a prize! https://nerdwallet.com/travelsurvey  Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews: Atmos Rewards Summit Credit Card https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/atmos-rewards-summit-credit-card  Resources discussed in this episode: Delta Companion Certificate: What You Need to Know https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/maximizing-the-delta-companion-fare  Star of the Seas Review: Royal Caribbean’s Grandest Spectacle Yet https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/star-seas-royal-caribbean-review  How to Pick Between Travel Credit Cards for Students for Study Abroad https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/how-to-pick-study-abroad-credit-card  How Much Does It Cost To Study Abroad? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/loans/student-loans/how-much-does-it-cost-to-study-abroad  Can College Abroad Actually Save You Money? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/loans/student-loans/college-abroad-costs  Is Studying Abroad Worth It? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/loans/student-loans/is-studying-abroad-worth-it  Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.   In this episode, the Nerds discuss: study abroad programs, how to pay for study abroad, study abroad scholarships, Benjamin Gilman Scholarship, federal student loans for study abroad, Pell Grants for study abroad, budgeting for study abroad, study abroad financial aid, study abroad costs, student credit cards abroad, best credit card for studying abroad, avoiding foreign transaction fees, budgeting tips for study abroad, study abroad housing costs, cost of living abroad for students, international student discounts, budgeting for international travel, study abroad visa fees, study abroad health insurance, using credit cards internationally, exchange rates study abroad, travel budgeting for students, short term study abroad programs, community college study abroad, direct enrollment study abroad, third party study abroad programs, exchange student program costs, financial planning for study abroad, saving money before study abroad, international travel on a student budget, affordable ways to study abroad, study abroad safety tips, student travel hacks, building credit while abroad, student budgeting tools, travel emergency funds, and study abroad career benefits. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how to pack smarter and lighter with actionable tips to save money, avoid fees, and travel stress-free. What travel gear can you stop packing to cut costs? How much money can you save by packing your luggage the right way? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss smart packing tips that could have a real impact on your travel spending. But first, Meghan covers the latest travel headlines with NerdWallet’s Tess Vigeland, including Southwest's free Wi-Fi trial for Rapid Rewards members, Alaska Airlines’ new routes to Europe, and Hyatt’s limited-time status match offer with American Airlines. Then, Sally and Meghan dive deep into smarter packing habits, with tips and tricks on minimizing baggage fees, staying flexible on the road, and cutting out unnecessary items without sacrificing comfort. They also discuss how to access essentials from your hotel, when to rent clothing instead of buying, and what to leave behind to make space for souvenirs. They share how carry-on-only travel can lead to unexpected benefits, how to include hotel perks in your packing list, and when to splurge or skip based on your itinerary.  Take the Smart Travel Podcast Listener Survey 2025 and enter to win a prize! https://nerdwallet.com/travelsurvey  Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews: Cathay World Elite Review 2025: Is It Worth It for Asia Miles Earners? https://www.nerdwallet.com/ca/p/reviews/credit-cards/cathay-pacific-world-elite-mastercard  Resources discussed in this episode: 5 Best Credit Card Points Programs and Who They Partner With https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/heres-how-you-can-transfer-your-points-from-any-major-credit-card-issuer  Airline Credit Cards That Offer Free Checked Bags https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/airline-credit-cards-free-checked-bags  Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.   Get an exclusive 15% discount on your first Saily data plans! Use code SMARTTRAVEL at checkout. Download Saily app or go to to https://saily.com/smarttravel In this episode, the Nerds discuss: how to avoid airline baggage fees, how to pack light for travel, packing tips to save money, Alaska Airlines new international flights, carry-on packing tips, credit cards with free checked bags, elite hotel status match, laundry while traveling, what not to pack for vacation, how to pack a personal item only, travel freebies from hotels, hotel toiletries and freebies, hotel baby kits, how to use clothing rental for travel, what to leave behind when packing, carry-on vs checked bag costs, lightweight packing for Europe, reusable plastic bags for travel, using credit card rewards for flights, travel tips for frequent flyers, saving money on checked bags, packing minimalist travel, essentials vs just in case items, hotel perks for elite members, how to rent clothing for vacation, Rent the Runway for travel, and Nuuly clothing rental. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Handle lost luggage like a pro with tips for getting reimbursed and packing smarter to avoid future headaches. What should you do when your luggage disappears on an international trip? Which credit cards and travel insurance policies actually help when this happens? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss Meghan’s real-life saga of lost luggage on a trip to Italy, including how she tracked it down, got it back, and got reimbursed nearly $2,000. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including how changes in U.S. travel spending could lead to more travel deals, the latest late-summer travel deals, World of Hyatt glamping points deals, Disneyland’s limited-time ticket offer, and a new United Club lounge in Denver. Then, Meghan and Sally dive deep into how to financially protect yourself from baggage mishaps. They share tips and tricks on choosing the right credit card for travel protections, tracking bags with AirTags, and getting reimbursed — even internationally. They also discuss travel insurance options, airline refund policies, packing strategies for high-stakes travel, and how to navigate lost-and-found drama abroad.  Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews: 12 Credit Cards That Provide Travel Insurance https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/credit-cards-that-provide-travel-insurance  American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-platinum  Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-preferred Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve  Resources discussed in this episode: Under Canvas Review: Glamping with Hyatt https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/under-canvas-review-glamping-with-hyatt  Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Party: How to Join for Cheap https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/disneyland-70-anniversary  First Look: United’s New Denver Club Is a Mountain Cabin Delight https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/first-look-uniteds-new-denver-club-is-a-mountain-cabin-delight  The Best Days to Fly Around Labor Day in 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/the-best-days-to-fly-around-labor-day-in-2025  How to Find the Best Travel Insurance https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/travel-insurance  Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.   Get an exclusive 15% discount on your first Saily data plans! Use code SMARTTRAVEL at checkout. Download Saily app or go to to https://saily.com/smarttravel In this episode, the Nerds discuss: lost luggage, airline lost baggage, delayed luggage reimbursement, baggage insurance, travel credit card protections, how to get money back for lost luggage, travel insurance coverage for luggage, best credit cards for lost luggage, travel protections credit card, AirTags for luggage, Apple AirTag airline tracking, carry-on vs checked bag, how to file a lost luggage claim, international travel luggage issues, how to pack for international travel, travel tips Italy, Florence travel tips, how to avoid lost luggage, Charles de Gaulle airport luggage, travel reimbursement for lost bag, travel insurance vs credit card insurance, Blue Ribbon Bags, how to get reimbursed for a lost suitcase, tracking lost luggage, airline compensation lost bag, filing an airline baggage claim, international wedding travel tips, best ways to travel light, and how to pack for a destination wedding. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices