The Clark Howard Podcast 10.15.25 UPDATE: Holiday Flights & Travel Credit Cards / Medicare Open Enrollment
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Oct 15, 2025 Discover new strategies for booking 2025 holiday flights and learn when high-fee travel credit cards are worth it. Clark dives into the pros and cons of popular cards like the Amex Platinum and the new Walmart CashRewards card. He also sheds light on important changes during Medicare Open Enrollment, warning about potential pitfalls with Advantage plans. Whether you're planning your next trip or reviewing healthcare options, this discussion provides valuable insights and real-world advice.
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Holiday Booking Window Shifted Later This Year
- Google Flights data shows optimal booking dates for Thanksgiving and Christmas shifted later this year (around Oct 22 for Thanksgiving).
- Clark doesn't know why the pattern shifted but urges listeners to trust the data.
Don’t Pay Big Annual Fees Unless You Travel Heavy
- Avoid high-fee premium travel cards unless you travel frequently, spend heavily, and value luxury perks.
- Consider Capital One Venture X as the best middle ground for periodic travelers because net cost can be near zero with credits.
When To Hold Or Upgrade Alaska’s New Cards
- Keep the Alaska $95 consumer card for companion fare and free bags if you don't charge much to the card.
- Consider the premium Atmos card only if you can charge roughly $5,000+ monthly or use it just for a signup bonus then downgrade.