Mo News Interview: How to Win at Travel: Expert Tips from ‘The Points Guy’
Dec 31, 2025
Brian Kelly, the founder of The Points Guy and author of How to Win at Travel, dives into travel savvy for jet setters. He offers tips on finding the cheapest flights and maximizing loyalty points while sharing his insight on the evolving nature of airline elite status. Brian warns about the hidden costs of 'cheap' fares and stresses the importance of travel insurance. He also breaks down budgeting strategies using credit card rewards. From tech tools to common travel mistakes, Brian equips listeners with everything they need for a smoother journey.
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Align Cards With Your Spending
- Match credit cards to your largest spending categories like groceries, dining and travel to maximize points.
- Keep a base 2x card for all purchases and add specialty cards for 3x–5x categories.
Transferable Points Over Airline Miles
- Transferable points are increasingly valuable because they let you switch to many airline partners for better redemptions.
- Airline loyalty is weakening while bank transferable programs give more flexibility and protection against devaluations.
Don't Gamble On The Cheapest Fare
- Avoid ultra‑cheap fares that layer on fees, risk tight connections, or unreliable service; cheap can be expensive.
- Prefer longer layovers (2–3 hours) and consider the night before hotels to protect major trips.