Points Talk®: Your Travel Dreams, Made Possible by Points
Are you tired of not being able to travel because it's just so expensive? Do finances keep you from your dream destinations and making memories with your family? In this podcast, we show you how you can fulfill that dream of traveling without spending more money. We've earned millions of credit card points to travel all over the world and take our families on amazing vacations. Vacations to Hawaii, Europe, and Disneyland are all possible for nearly free with credit card points. By using credit cards strategically for your everyday expenses, you too can travel for nearly free! We can't wait to help you get that first, nearly-free vacation! Tired of not traveling due to the expense? We can teach you how to travel for pennies on the dollar by using credit card points!
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161. Looking Forward to 2026: New Cards and Our Travel Plans
12/30/2025
161. Looking Forward to 2026: New Cards and Our Travel Plans
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: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: Points Talk is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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160. 2025 Year in Review: The Cards We Opened and Our Points-Fueled Trips
12/23/2025
160. 2025 Year in Review: The Cards We Opened and Our Points-Fueled Trips
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: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: Points Talk is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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159. Three Disney Cruises, Three Perspectives: Which Ship is Right for You? (Part 2)
12/16/2025
159. Three Disney Cruises, Three Perspectives: Which Ship is Right for You? (Part 2)
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: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: Points Talk is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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158. Three Disney Cruises, Three Perspectives: Discovering the New Disney Ships (Part 1)
12/09/2025
158. Three Disney Cruises, Three Perspectives: Discovering the New Disney Ships (Part 1)
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: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: Points Talk is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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157. Traveling With Toddlers vs. Teens on Points and Miles
12/02/2025
157. Traveling With Toddlers vs. Teens on Points and Miles
Have you ever wondered whether it is easier to travel with toddlers or teens when you are using points and miles to explore the world as a family? In this episode, Alex and Jess are joined by Traci as they share what they have learned from years of traveling with kids at every age. They talk honestly about the joys and challenges that come with each stage, from managing nap schedules to giving older kids more independence on the road. You will hear real stories about tantrums in beautiful places, long flights with little ones, and the practical benefits of traveling earlier in your child's life. The Squad also shares why teens can be incredible travel companions who help navigate airports, plan parts of the itinerary, and bring their own interests into the experience. They offer advice for packing entertainment, choosing destinations with or without car seat logistics, and finding activities that work for both younger and older kids. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: Points Talk is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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156. All About Marriott Bonvoy®: Earning Points, Free Nights, and Luxury Stays
11/25/2025
156. All About Marriott Bonvoy®: Earning Points, Free Nights, and Luxury Stays
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: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: Points Talk is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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155. End-of-Year Checklist: Credits, Perks & Expiring Rewards
11/18/2025
155. End-of-Year Checklist: Credits, Perks & Expiring Rewards
Have you used all your card credits and perks before the year ends? With the holidays approaching and schedules getting busier, it’s easy to forget about valuable benefits waiting to be redeemed. From shopping and dining credits to free night certificates and travel perks, there’s still time to make sure nothing goes unused. In this episode, Alex, Pam, and Jess walk through an end-of-year checklist to help you review the benefits and rewards that often expire on December 31. They share strategies for maximizing annual, semi-annual, and quarterly credits, tips for checking expiration dates on rewards, and reminders about travel status and point transfers. Whether you’re catching up on unused rewards or preparing your strategy for the new year, this episode will help you wrap up the year with confidence and clarity. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: Points Talk is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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A Special Announcement...
11/17/2025
A Special Announcement...
This short bonus episode comes with an important update from the Squad. After an unexpected curveball and a lot of behind-the-scenes work, Alex, Pam, and Jess share what’s been happening and why this moment marks the start of a new chapter. You’ll hear why they made this decision, what it means for the podcast and the community, and what isn’t changing as they move forward. Press play to hear the full story and the official announcement. You can find the updated Points Talk Squad website here: Points Talk is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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154. Top Destinations for Girls’ Trips on Points
11/11/2025
154. Top Destinations for Girls’ Trips on Points
Do you need help planning a girls' trip that feels luxurious but doesn’t drain your wallet or your points balance? Whether you picture spa days in the desert, shopping weekends in big cities, or a European escape filled with good food and laughter, The Points Talk Squad shares their favorite types of getaways and how to make them happen using points and miles. In this episode, Alex, Pam, and Jess talk about how they plan and book their own girls' trips, from choosing destinations and coordinating flights to dividing hotel stays and keeping things simple when friends have different point balances. They share trip ideas that range from short weekend escapes to longer adventures abroad, with options for every kind of traveler and budget. No matter what kind of trip you have in mind, this episode will help you turn your girls' trip idea into a memorable adventure that feels well planned and perfectly within reach. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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153. Switzerland on Points: Jess’s Jungfrau & Zurich Adventure
11/04/2025
153. Switzerland on Points: Jess’s Jungfrau & Zurich Adventure
Have you ever wondered if it’s actually possible to visit Switzerland without spending a fortune? From business-class flights booked on points to scenic train rides through the Alps, Jess shares how she planned a stunning mother-daughter trip that balanced comfort, adventure, and strategy in one unforgettable experience. In this episode, she breaks down how she used points and miles for flights and hotels, navigated Switzerland’s complex train and cable car system, and found smart ways to save on food and transportation. Whether you’re planning your first trip to Switzerland or looking to make your dream Alps vacation more affordable, this episode reveals how to travel through one of Europe’s most expensive countries with confidence, clarity, and a few clever tricks. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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152. Plan the Perfect Morocco Adventure: Sahara Desert, Medina Walks, and the Blue City
10/28/2025
152. Plan the Perfect Morocco Adventure: Sahara Desert, Medina Walks, and the Blue City
Have you ever wondered what it’s really like to experience Morocco - including the medinas, the desert, and the Blue City - all in one trip? From camel rides in the Sahara to wandering the alleyways of Fez, this trip was all about embracing adventure, culture, and connection in one unforgettable journey. In this episode, Alex and Pam share how they explored Morocco on a whirlwind girls' trip using a mix of points, miles, and cash. Listen in to learn how to plan your own Moroccan adventure, from selecting riads and desert camps to understanding local customs and tipping etiquette. They share what surprised them most, which cities left the biggest impression, and how this trip proved that sometimes, the best use of points is creating once-in-a-lifetime memories. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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151. Battle of Premium Cards: Value vs. Cost and Our Top Picks (Part 2)
10/21/2025
151. Battle of Premium Cards: Value vs. Cost and Our Top Picks (Part 2)
Are premium credit cards really worth their steep annual fees? In this follow-up to last week’s episode, The Travel Mom Squad digs into the true value behind four of the most popular premium cards. They look beyond the price tags to compare how these cards perform when you factor in credits, perks, and everyday usability. From easy-to-redeem travel credits to lifestyle benefits that require more effort, the Squad breaks down how to calculate whether a card earns its place in your wallet long-term. Finally, Alex, Pam, and Jess each share which premium card they’d keep if they could only choose one—and why their answers might surprise you. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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150. Battle of Premium Cards: Rewards, Earning Power, and Perks (Part 1)
10/14/2025
150. Battle of Premium Cards: Rewards, Earning Power, and Perks (Part 1)
Which premium credit card is really worth it for your travel style and spending habits? In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad put four of the top-tier cards head-to-head. They break down the American Express Platinum Card®, Capital One Venture X, Chase Sapphire Reserve®, and the brand-new Citi Strata Elite℠, exploring the earning potential, perks, and lifestyle benefits of each to help you evaluate which one fits your wallet best. Alex, Jess, and Pam walk you through the differences in earning power and rewards structures across all four cards. By the end of the episode, you’ll have a clear framework for comparing premium cards without getting lost in the fine print. You will hear strategies for choosing the card that aligns with your spending patterns, travel goals, and home airport, plus tips for getting the most out of credits and perks so that you can make premium cards work for you. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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149. Micro-Trips: Short Getaways With Mega Value
10/07/2025
149. Micro-Trips: Short Getaways With Mega Value
Short getaways don’t have to be stressful or require a full week off. In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad explores the world of micro-trips: perfectly sized escapes that deliver maximum value and relaxation. Alex, Jess, and Pam share their experiences planning and enjoying these quick getaways, from domestic city breaks to international trips, and show how even a few nights can feel like a meaningful vacation. You will hear which destinations work best for micro-trips based on your location, why some luxury properties are actually ideal for shorter stays, and how to make the most of points and free night certificates. Tune in for ideas on destinations, strategies for using points, and honest feedback from their own adventures. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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148. Break These Popular Award Travel "Rules"
09/30/2025
148. Break These Popular Award Travel "Rules"
The world of points and miles can feel overwhelming when everyone has an opinion on the “right” way to do things. In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad break down common travel rewards advice and show why it doesn’t always apply to every traveler. From what counts as smart redemptions to how to prioritize your points, they give you permission to ignore the rules and focus on what works for your own goals. Throughout the episode, the Squad shares examples from their own travel experiences. If you’ve ever felt pressure to follow the “expert” advice, Alex, Jess, and Pam help you cut through the noise. You’ll learn when breaking typical points and miles rules makes sense, how to tailor your strategy to your lifestyle, and why there’s no single right way to make your points work for you. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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147. Staying at the Miraval Arizona All-Inclusive Wellness Resort on Points
09/23/2025
147. Staying at the Miraval Arizona All-Inclusive Wellness Resort on Points
Does a getaway to a wellness resort seem like an unattainable luxury? Alex and Jess recently stayed at Miraval Arizona. In this episode, they’re sharing their experience from booking their flights and room to their favorite activities, and everything in between. While Miraval is known for its premium wellness experience, they’re here to show you how it can be more accessible, especially when booking with points. They’ll also give you the honest rundown on the resort’s all-inclusive offerings, the digital-device-free policy, and how the resort credits worked to enhance their experience. Plus, they compare their time at Miraval Arizona to Jess's previous visit to Miraval Austin, giving you the inside scoop on which location might be the best fit for you. Tune in for their honest feedback on the Miraval experience and what you can expect if you choose to visit. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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146. One Card From Each Bank: Our Top Picks
09/16/2025
146. One Card From Each Bank: Our Top Picks
Which credit card would you choose if you could only pick one from each major bank? In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad shares their top picks and explains why each card works best for their individual travel habits, home airports, and spending priorities. While there isn’t a single right answer for everyone, their discussion gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how they approach selecting cards for real-world travel. The Squad debates and compares cards across categories, weighing benefits, earning potential, and annual fees. They highlight why some cards are better suited for certain spending patterns or travel goals, and what subtle perks can make a difference for one traveler versus another. As a bonus, they also reveal which hotel and airline card they would pick if they could only select one, giving you insight into how to think about those decisions as well. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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145. How To Earn the Southwest® Companion Pass for Free Flights
09/09/2025
145. How To Earn the Southwest® Companion Pass for Free Flights
Ever wondered how you can fly someone for free on all your Southwest® flights for the next year or two? The Southwest® Companion Pass® is one of the most valuable perks in travel rewards, especially for families who travel frequently. It allows a companion to fly with you for just taxes and fees, giving you the chance to maximize your trips without extra cost. With recent changes to Southwest® credit cards and policies, knowing how to earn and use the pass effectively is key. The Travel Mom Squad breaks down the essential strategies for earning the Southwest® Companion Pass® through credit card welcome offers. They explain the main paths to earning enough points to qualify, the timing strategies to avoid common mistakes, and how to coordinate personal and business cards to make the process simpler. The Squad also shares insights on using referral bonuses to get additional points and how to approach the pass if you’re managing multiple cards or family members. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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144. First-Time International Travel Made Easy: Top Destinations and Practical Tips
09/02/2025
144. First-Time International Travel Made Easy: Top Destinations and Practical Tips
Are you feeling overwhelmed about planning your first international trip? From excitement about exploring a new destination to concerns about currency exchanges, language barriers, and navigating unfamiliar transportation systems, there’s a lot to consider. But whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned domestic traveler, the good news is that with a little preparation, international travel can be far less intimidating than it seems. In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad breaks down the essential tips and strategies for anyone planning their first trip abroad. They discuss why certain destinations are perfect for easing into international travel and how to make the experience smoother and more enjoyable. With insights from each of their personal travel experiences, the Squad highlights the most important factors to consider when planning your first international adventure. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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143. Europe Travel with Kids: Traci's Hotel Booking Strategies for Families
08/26/2025
143. Europe Travel with Kids: Traci's Hotel Booking Strategies for Families
Do you struggle to find hotel rooms in Europe that can accommodate your entire family? Many European hotels limit occupancy to just two guests per room, leaving families either piecing together multiple bookings or endlessly searching for those rare properties that actually sleep four or more. And because of strict occupancy rules, you can’t just show up with extra kids and hope for the best — some hotels will turn you away at check-in. Today, Traci joins Alex and Jess to share her extensive research and personal experience booking family-friendly hotels across Europe using points. She’s uncovered unicorn properties that fit four people without hassle, smart strategies for booking two rooms with points, and surprising ways travel portals can actually be useful for families. Whether you're traveling with toddlers who need to stay close or teens who’d prefer their own space, these strategies will help you navigate the unique challenges of European hotel bookings while still getting great value from your points. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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142. Chase Ultimate Rewards®: Key Updates & Our Favorite Earning Cards
08/19/2025
142. Chase Ultimate Rewards®: Key Updates & Our Favorite Earning Cards
Are Chase Ultimate Rewards® still the best points for travel? The Travel Mom Squad certainly thinks so. These points offer unmatched flexibility and value, making them a cornerstone of any serious travel rewards strategy. With recent changes to Chase’s offerings, this episode is your guide to the essential updates in 2025. In this episode, the Squad dives into why Chase Ultimate Rewards® remain their top choice and breaks down all the cards that earn them. From the revamped Chase Sapphire Reserve® to the no-annual-fee Freedom cards, they explain how each card fits into a comprehensive strategy to maximize points. Whether you’re planning a luxury hotel stay or flights for your whole family, they’ll share the strategies that turn everyday spending into unforgettable travel experiences. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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141. Bora Bora on Points: Flights, Hotels, and Upgrades
08/12/2025
141. Bora Bora on Points: Flights, Hotels, and Upgrades
Overwater bungalows in Bora Bora might seem like a once-in-a-lifetime splurge, but what if you could experience it more than once? The crystal-clear lagoons and breathtaking Polynesian sunsets are even sweeter when you know how to make this dream destination a reality without breaking the bank. Points and miles turn this exclusive getaway into a repeatable experience, without the steep price tag. This week, Alex, Pam, and Jess share their second trips to the Conrad Bora Bora. From positioning flights to the West Coast to navigating French Polynesia's inter-island connections, they’re diving deep into the strategies that made these trips possible. You'll hear about the airlines with the best award options, how to maximize your time on the island with red-eye flights, and the real costs to expect once you arrive. Plus, they share their thoughts on whether Bora Bora or the Maldives offers the best overwater villa experience. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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140. Maximize Hotel Free-Night Certificates: Comparing Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and IHG
08/05/2025
140. Maximize Hotel Free-Night Certificates: Comparing Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and IHG
No one loves the annual fees of credit cards, but what if they could save you hundreds on travel? Free-night certificates are one of the most valuable perks you can earn from hotel credit cards, and with the right strategy, they can easily pay for themselves year after year. While many travelers cancel their cards after claiming the welcome bonus, the savvy few know that some cards deliver ongoing value, thanks to these certificates. In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad breaks down how hotel free-night certificates from Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and IHG can transform your travel planning. We share specific redemption examples, reveal which cards we keep just for these certificates, and explore how to maximize their value—whether you're booking a luxury stay or using them for family trips. By understanding the unique ways each brand offers and limits these certificates, you can get far more than you paid in annual fees. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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139. Travel Light: Carry-On Only Packing and Essential Tips
07/29/2025
139. Travel Light: Carry-On Only Packing and Essential Tips
Dragging multiple suitcases through cobblestone streets in Europe while trying to catch a train is the moment many travelers realize they've packed too much. The struggle of navigating airports with excessive luggage, waiting at baggage claim, and worrying about lost bags can turn what should be an exciting journey into a stressful ordeal. The Squad has mastered the art of traveling with just a carry-on, even on trips lasting two weeks or more. In this episode, they share their tested strategies for making carry-on travel work, including their favorite luggage choices, packing techniques, and the mindset shift required to leave the overpacking habits behind. You'll discover how to handle everything from liquids and toiletries to choosing versatile clothing, plus tips for surviving jet lag and navigating new visa requirements like the UK's ETA system. TMS's favorirte eye mask (under "Travel Products"): You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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138. The BEST Hotel Chain for Using & Earning Points
07/22/2025
138. The BEST Hotel Chain for Using & Earning Points
When choosing where to spend your hard-earned hotel points, the options can feel overwhelming. Each major hotel chain promises value, but the reality often falls short when you discover that dream property costs triple what you expected in points. This week, the Travel Mom Squad takes a dive deep into why one hotel program stands head and shoulders above the rest. Through specific strategies for earning points, maximizing elite benefits, and leveraging unique program features, you'll discover how to unlock luxury hotel stays without breaking the bank. Whether you're booking a $1,000-per-night property in Maui or securing a hotel room during a big sports event, you'll learn exactly how this amazing hotel chain's program structure creates consistent value that other dynamic pricing models can't match. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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137. Iceland & Ireland with Points: Jess's 10-Day Family Adventure
07/15/2025
137. Iceland & Ireland with Points: Jess's 10-Day Family Adventure
Planning a bucket-list trip to Iceland and Ireland might seem out of reach for a family of five, but what if you could score flights and hotels using mostly points and miles? Jess recently returned from this exact adventure, navigating the tricky world of Iceland flight bookings and European hotel room occupancy limits with strategic planning and some insider knowledge. Jess takes us through her 10-day journey, breaking down exactly how she used points and miles for flights from Chicago to Reykjavik with a stopover, then onward to Dublin. She shares the specific redemption strategies for Hilton points at the Canopy Reykjavik and how she creatively solved the challenge of fitting five people into European hotels that typically accommodate only two per room. From working with local trip planners to maximize their limited time in each country to discovering hidden gems like private cliff tours in Ireland, this episode provides the roadmap for making it all happen without breaking the bank. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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136. Solo Travel Tips & Points Strategies with Kelsi from PointSisters
07/08/2025
136. Solo Travel Tips & Points Strategies with Kelsi from PointSisters
In this episode, Jess and Alex are joined by Kelsi Sullivan, one half of PointSisters on Instagram, who has mastered the art of solo travel using points and miles. Kelsi brings a unique perspective shaped by her international upbringing and her discovery of the financial independence community. Her journey from casual miles collector to strategic points optimizer shows how solo travelers can thrive in the points and miles world. Throughout the conversation, Jess, Alex, and Kelsi explore how solo travelers can approach earning and redeeming points while traveling alone, safety considerations for solo female travelers, and specific strategies for maximizing value without a traditional "player two." Kelsi shares concrete examples from her adventures in Tanzania, India, Sri Lanka, and beyond, revealing how she stretches her points across multiple international trips each year. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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135. Where to Stay in Maui: Are Timeshare Presentations Worth It?
07/01/2025
135. Where to Stay in Maui: Are Timeshare Presentations Worth It?
Getting a discounted stay at a luxury Maui resort sounds too good to be true, especially when the catch involves sitting through a timeshare presentation. After receiving a letter from Marriott Vacation Club offering a discounted five-night stay at a Westin property, Alex decided to see if the savings were worth the 90-minute sales pitch. In addition to hearing the pros and cons of attending a timeshare presentation, this episode gives you an inside look at popular Maui resorts such as Andaz Maui, the Westin Nanea Ocean Villas, and Hyatt Regency Maui. Hear the Travel Mom Squad's differing recommendations for visiting Maui based on your travel needs, and whether or not they recommend sitting through a timeshare presentation for the discounted stay. You can find links to the hotels, tours, and other resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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134. 2025 Points & Miles Changes You Need to Know
06/24/2025
134. 2025 Points & Miles Changes You Need to Know
Major shifts in lounge access, baggage fees, and loyalty programs are reshaping the landscape of travel rewards in 2025. With summer travel quickly approaching, the Travel Mom Squad is here to break down what these changes mean for solo and family travelers planning their vacations. In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad dives into the most significant changes announced so far this year. You will learn which credit cards are still worth keeping despite the changes, how to make the most of the new restrictions, and the strategic moves travelers should make before key deadlines arrive. The Travel Mom Squad shares their personal decisions on which cards they’re keeping, canceling, or adding to their wallets, along with insider tips on navigating the evolving world of airline loyalty programs. You can find links to the hotels, tours, and other resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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133. Travel to Spain Using Points: TMS Takes Madrid, Barcelona, and Mallorca
06/17/2025
133. Travel to Spain Using Points: TMS Takes Madrid, Barcelona, and Mallorca
Planning a trip to Spain on points and miles? It’s all about the strategy—especially when you're juggling travel for multiple people! In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad dives into their recent Spanish adventure, navigating last-minute flight changes and uncovering the best of Madrid, Barcelona, and Mallorca—all while maximizing points and miles. From wandering through historic neighborhoods to cooking authentic paella, the trio experienced Spain like never before. They stayed in amazing spots like the chic Thompson Madrid and the luxe Nobu Palma in Mallorca, proving that with a little flexibility and a lot of points, you can turn any trip into an unforgettable adventure. You'll Discover: How to leverage last-minute award availability when original flight plans change. Why the Thompson Madrid offers exceptional value for Hyatt points in a prime location. How to navigate transportation options between Spanish cities efficiently. Where to find authentic cultural experiences, like a Paella Club cooking class. The distinct differences between Madrid and Barcelona. Why you NEED to add Mallorca to your Spanish itinerary. You can find links to the hotels, tours, and other resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram:
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