Hyatt just devalued its points system, and it could impact your next trip more than you think. In this episode, Travis, Emily, and Matt break down the 2026 loyalty program shakeup affecting World of Hyatt and United MileagePlus. They're getting into specific program shifts and what it actually means for your points strategy.
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From Hyatt’s move toward dynamic-style pricing to United doubling down on rewarding cardholders, this episode uncovers what’s changing, what hurts, and what smart travelers should be doing right now.
If you’ve been saving points for a dream redemption, you’ll want to hear this before you book anything.
The episode covers:
- What Hyatt’s new 5-tier pricing system really means
- Why this feels like dynamic pricing (even if they say it’s not)
- Which redemptions could cost significantly more soon
- United’s new strategy for cardholders and elite members
- How award availability and pricing could shift
- The biggest risks to your current points strategy
- What to do before these changes take effect
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro to Program Changes
06:00 Hyatt Changes Explained
20:00 Real Impact on Redemptions
37:00 United Updates Breakdown
52:00 Strategy Shifts Moving Forward
Links and Resources from this Episode:
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