Smart Travel: Upgrade Your Getaways

Learn what it’s like working with a travel advisor, including how much time and money they can really save you when planning your next trip. Can travel advisors really save you money? Should you be booking travel yourself or outsourcing the job to a professional? Hosts Megan Coyle and Sally French discuss the unexpected perks, cost structures, and potential savings of working with a travel advisor, formerly known as a travel agent. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including record-setting Fourth of July travel projections, a JetBlue challenge offering up to $5,250 in bonus points, and why the new “Points Boost” travel redemption feature from Chase may be more hype than help. Then, Jenn Lee, President and CMO of Travel Planners International and Vacation Planners, joins Sally to discuss what today’s travel advisors actually do — and why their role has evolved far beyond just booking flights. They explore when it makes sense to use a travel advisor, how they get paid, and how they can unlock deep discounts and luxury perks you likely can’t find online. From pre-paid cruise cabins and group hotel rates to emergency support during canceled flights, Jenn shares the behind-the-scenes benefits that could make hiring an advisor a smarter and more cost-effective way to plan your next trip. 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: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-preferred Chase Ink Preferred Review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/small-business/chase-ink-preferred Chase Launches New Sapphire Reserve for Business Card With 200K Point Bonus Offer https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/small-business/new-sapphire-reserve-business  Chase Freedom Unlimited Review: A Potential One-Card Solution https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-freedom-unlimited  Resources discussed in this episode: Best Credit Cards of July 2025: https://www.nerdwallet.com/the-best-credit-cards  9 Best Business Credit Cards of July 2025: https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/credit-cards/small-business  The Best Prime Day Travel Deals 2025: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/best-prime-day-travel-deals-2025  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: travel agent vs booking yourself, travel advisor savings, JetBlue Mosaic 1 status, best travel credit cards 2025, Chase Ultimate Rewards changes, travel insurance tips, Amazon Prime Day travel deals, travel agent free hotel perks, travel concierge services, travel advisor costs, travel agent commissions, best river cruises Europe, travel agent hotel upgrades, saving on cruises 2025, travel packages savings, booking international travel, avoiding travel planning mistakes, travel planning help, VIP travel perks, Airbnb travel perks, Airbnb late checkout tips, credit card travel benefits, booking luxury travel with advisor, travel mistakes relying on Instagram, when to use a travel agent, travel agent vs AI planning, and the benefits of travel advisors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Score travel deals, discover hotel savings, and learn how to maximize your budget without missing out this summer. How can you travel this summer without overspending? Where should you book to get the most value from your hotel stay? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss the state of summer travel and how shifting prices are impacting vacation budgets. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including: massive crowds already clogging airports and attractions, updates to the Chase Sapphire Reserve and new rules for holding multiple Sapphire cards, a teased refresh of the Amex Platinum, Disney’s Halloween event ticket rush, the opening of Delta’s new lounge in Seattle, and major changes to Carnival Cruise Line’s loyalty program. Then, Mary Hines Droesch, Head of Consumer and Small Business Products at Bank of America, joins Meghan and Sally to talk about real-time spending data and what it tells us about how and where Americans are vacationing this summer. They discuss how high-income travelers are approaching international travel, where cruise bookings are surging, and why road trips and destination dupes are having a moment. Then, Christie Hudson, Head of Global PR at Hotels.com, joins to talk about how to find five-star hotel stays for less, which U.S. cities have seen the steepest hotel price drops, and how loyalty perks (even from free programs) can unlock big savings on your next getaway. This show references a limited-time offer on the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card. At the time of posting, it wasn’t announced when the offer would expire.  See NerdWallet’s review of Chase Sapphire Reserve current benefits, terms and fees: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve 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: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-preferred  American Express Platinum Review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-platinum Capital One Venture X Review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/capital-one-venture-x   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  What Credit Cards Can Get Me Into the Delta Sky Club? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/what-credit-cards-can-get-me-into-the-delta-sky-club  Best Credit Cards of July 2025: https://www.nerdwallet.com/the-best-credit-cards  Best Credit Card Bonuses for New Cardholders of July 2025: https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/credit-cards/bonus-offers  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: cheap summer travel, affordable summer vacations, hotel deals 2025, best credit cards for travel, travel credit cards, Chase Sapphire Reserve bonus, travel spending trends 2025, how to find cheap hotels, best time to book hotels, destination dupes travel, cheap five-star hotels abroad, road trip vs flying, domestic vs international travel costs, cruise travel 2025, how to get free hotel perks, Hotels.com loyalty program, travel loyalty programs, cheapest cities for hotels, cheapest cities for cocktails, August travel deals, shoulder season travel tips, how to save on luxury travel, summer airfare prices, declining airfare trends, best cities for cheap hotels, travel booking strategies, where to find value hotels, national parks travel tips, Disney Halloween party tickets, Oogie Boogie Bash tips, theme park travel savings, Carnival Rewards cruise program, cruise loyalty program changes, and guest access travel lounges. Correction: A previous version of this episode misstated the ability to receive a sign-up bonus by downgrading a credit card. This has been corrected. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn about major changes to the Chase Sapphire Reserve — and how to decide if another premium card is a better fit. Is the Chase Sapphire Reserve still worth it after its major 2025 refresh? What do travelers lose — and gain — with the new credit card benefits? Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French break down this week’s sweeping changes to the Chase Sapphire Reserve and compare it with other premium travel cards to help you decide the best fit for your wallet. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including the abrupt shutdown of Silver Airways, American Airlines’ new upgrade system, and the latest data on the costs of airfares, lodging, meals, and rental cars.  Then, Meghan and Sally dive deep into the Chase Sapphire Reserve overhaul. They unpack a 45% annual fee hike, new perks like hotel and dining credits, and the rollout of the new “Points Boost” redemption system. They discuss which perks actually deliver value, which benefits regional travelers might struggle to use, and how alternatives like the AmEx Platinum and Capital One Venture X compare. From lounge access to statement credits, this episode aims to help savvy travelers determine whether the Reserve still earns a spot in their wallet — or if it’s time to downgrade. 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: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve   Chase Sapphire Preferred review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-preferred    American Express Platinum review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-platinum   Capital One Venture X review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/capital-one-venture-x   Chase Freedom Unlimited: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-freedom-unlimited  Resources discussed in this episode: Chase Sapphire Reserve Makes Big Changes: Higher Fee, New Rates, More Perks https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve-overhaul-june-2025  16 Best Travel Credit Cards of June 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/credit-cards/travel  Cruises Now Searchable on Chase’s Travel Portal https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/chase-travel-cruises  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: travel credit card perks, Chase Ultimate Rewards points value, best travel credit cards 2025, credit card annual fee comparison, dynamic pricing vs award charts, American Airlines upgrade changes, Chase Points Boost explained, travel credit card lounge access, best premium travel cards, how to downgrade Chase Sapphire Reserve, The Edit by Chase Travel, statement credits travel cards, airline price trends 2025, gas prices summer 2025, hotel prices summer 2025, comparing annual fee travel cards, priority pass lounge changes, and best credit cards for luxury hotels. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How to plan a multi-generational trip without breaking the bank — or your relationships — and make it truly memorable. How do you plan a budget-friendly vacation for multiple generations of family? And how do you keep everyone — from toddlers to grandparents — happy without overspending or over-planning? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle explain how you can overcome the challenges of multi-generational travel. But first, they break down the latest travel news, including Capital One Venture X cutting free lounge access for guests, Southwest’s new international partnership with China Airlines, Starlux launching a luxe new route out of Ontario Airport, and American Airlines debuting its flagship suite on the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. They also highlight where to find five-star hotel stays under $200 and share cruise recaps from Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas. Then, they dive into how to plan a multi-generational family trip that’s both affordable and fun. Sally shares how she pulled off a three-day reunion for family members from multiple states by using surveys to gather input, encouraging everyone to book their own lodging, and organizing inclusive, low-cost activities like a DIY 5K and family trivia night. She and Meghan discuss budgeting strategies, food planning, and choosing the right kind of trip — whether that’s a cruise, all-inclusive resort, or vacation home setup — to balance structure with flexibility. They wrap up by answering a listener’s question about whether it’s cheaper to book international flights while abroad or in advance from the U.S. Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews: Capital One Venture X Review: A Worthy Option Among Premium Cards https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/capital-one-venture-x  Resources discussed in this episode: Venture X Card to Drop Free Lounge Access for Guests, Authorized Users https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/capital-one-venture-x-lounge-access-for-authorized-users-guests  First Look: American Airlines Unveils Its Newest Flagship Business Class https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/first-look-american-airlines-unveils-its-newest-flagship-business-class  Royal Caribbean Cruises: The Ultimate Guide https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/royal-caribbean-the-complete-guide  The Guide to Chase Transfer Partners https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/chase-transfer-partners-guide  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: how to plan a family vacation, multi-generational travel tips, budget travel with kids and grandparents, best way to book international flights, cruise travel for families, all-inclusive resorts for large groups, cruise vs all-inclusive for families, travel with extended family, vacation home vs hotel, booking flights in Asia, Priority Pass changes, planning family reunions, using surveys for trip planning, food hall dining on vacation, family trivia night ideas, photo scavenger hunt for travel, flexible family trip itineraries, indoor skydiving on cruise ships, Royal Caribbean Ovation of the Seas, and booking travel with points and miles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn what’s worth it (and what to skip) at Universal’s new theme park Epic Universe, with money-saving tips and sneak peeks of top rides. Is Epic Universe worth the higher ticket price compared to Universal’s other parks? How can you save money on theme park food, drinks, and add-ons without sacrificing fun? Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss the newest and most expensive addition to Universal Orlando—Epic Universe—and help you decide what’s worth the splurge, what’s skippable, and how to enjoy a top-tier experience without breaking your budget. But first, they break down the latest travel news, including United and JetBlue’s new BlueSky partnership, United’s downgrade of elite perks, and Southwest’s introduction of bag fees. Then, Sally recaps her experience at Epic Universe, including Dark Universe, Super Nintendo World, Isle of Berk, and a new Wizarding World of Harry Potter. She shares what to expect from the rides, dining, and vibe of each area, which locations offer the best rides and food, whether pricey extras like interactive wands and power-up bands are worth it, and smart ways to enjoy the park without overspending.  Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews. Resources discussed in this episode: Best Southwest Airlines Credit Cards of June 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/credit-cards/southwest-airlines-cards  The Best Days to Fly Around July Fourth in 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/fourth-of-july-travel  The Cheapest Ways to Visit Universal’s Epic Universe in 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/epic-universe-cheapest  Universal Epic Universe: How to Plan Your Trip To One Of Orlando’s Top Theme Parks https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/epic-universe  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: Epic Universe, Universal Orlando theme park, Universal Studios Epic Universe, how to save money at theme parks, best rides at Epic Universe, Epic Universe food prices, Universal Orlando ticket cost, Universal vs Epic Universe, Harry Potter Land Epic Universe, Ministry of Magic ride, Monsters Unchained ride, How to Train Your Dragon ride, Super Nintendo World Orlando, Epic Universe power-up bands, Universal wand prices, theme park loyalty programs, United JetBlue BlueSky, United Excursionist Perk ending, United Premier upgrade changes, Southwest Airlines bag fees, Marriott Emirates transfer, Marriott summer hotel deals, Fourth of July travel flights, Universal Studios ride tips, Epic Universe restaurants, best theme park desserts, Florida theme parks 2025, Universal Studios new park tips, Universal Orlando 2025, Epic Universe bar drinks, DK Crush Float, and theme park spending tips. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how to plan travel itineraries that save you money, skip tourist traps, and make the most of your points. How can you plan a travel itinerary that saves money without missing out? What travel credit cards are worth it if you don’t want to pay an annual fee? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle talk about how to plan a smart, budget-conscious travel itinerary without sacrificing memorable experiences. But first, Sally breaks down the latest travel news with NerdWallet’s Tess Vigeland, including rising summer flight volumes, the high cost of theme park vacations, Hyatt’s expansion into Croatia, the end of an AmEx points transfer workaround, and a devaluation of Bilt Rewards for rent payments. Then, Meghan joins Sally to discuss how to build a personalized travel itinerary that aligns with your interests, budget, and travel style. They cover how to score deals on big-ticket attractions, use combo passes wisely, find local hidden gems, and get recommendations you’ll actually enjoy. They also answer a listener’s question about whether it’s worth opening no-annual-fee travel cards just for the signup bonuses — and which ones are still worth a look if you’re not ready to splurge on a premium card. 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 Preferred® Card Review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-preferred  Chase Freedom Unlimited® Review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-freedom-unlimited  Chase Freedom Flex Review: Multiple Bonus Rewards Wrapped in One Card https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-freedom-flex  Hilton AmEx Review: Solid Rewards for No Annual Fee https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/hilton-amex-review  Resources discussed in this episode: How to Avoid Hotel Resort Fees (and Which Brands Are the Worst) https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/hotel-resort-fees  Hotel Resort Fees: Why They Exist, and How to Avoid Them For Max Savings [Video] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpB4R54lutM  The Best Travel Credit Card Welcome Bonus Offers Right Now https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/top-rewards-credit-card-offers  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: how to plan a travel itinerary, travel itinerary tips, avoiding tourist traps, budget travel tips, free things to do on vacation, how to find cheap museum tickets, combo passes for museums, travel planning with points, travel credit card recommendations, best travel cards for beginners, American Airlines shopping portal, how to use GetYourGuide for points, Hyatt points value, Hyatt Regency Croatia, Bilt Rewards changes, how to earn travel rewards without spending more, travel tips for Europe, Universal Epic Universe tips, walking tours in Europe, free walking tours, when to use a hotel concierge, ChatGPT for trip planning, how to avoid bad restaurants when traveling, map-based restaurant planning, hidden gems travel tips, how to travel on points, what credit cards earn bonus travel points, credit cards for booking attractions, public transportation travel savings, smart cruise shore excursions, free hotel amenities, and resort fee benefits. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get the most out of your next Disney trip with tips for saving on tickets, spending less time in lines, and finding legitimate discounts. When is the cheapest time to go to Disney parks? How can you save money and avoid long lines once you're there? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle talk all things Disney, including when to go, how to find legit ticket discounts, and the best ways to save time and money once you're inside the parks. But first, producer Tess Vigeland joins Sally to break down the latest travel headlines, including the new Orlando theme park Epic Universe, Southwest’s upcoming baggage fee changes, Delta’s shift from cabin classes to “travel experiences,” and lower airfare prices in 2025. Then, Meghan and Sally talk about how to maximize your Disney trip, with strategies like where to buy discounted tickets, how to use multi-passes to skip the longest lines, and options to save on food. They also share when you might find fewer crowds and how to take advantage of those hours, what to eat (and skip), and how to enjoy Disney magic without even entering the parks, from scenic hotel views to free rides on the monorail and Skyliner. Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews: Target Red Card: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/target-redcard  Resources discussed in this episode: Universal Epic Universe: How to Plan Your Trip for the Opening https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/epic-universe  Southwest Ditches Free Bags, Adds Basic Fares https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/southwest-announces-bag-fees-and-other-negative-changes  Delta’s New Fares Hint at Bigger Changes Ahead https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/deltas-new-fares-hint-at-bigger-changes-ahead  Travel Inflation Report: May 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/travel-price-tracker   The 8 Best Ways to Buy Disney Tickets https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/best-ways-to-buy-disney-tickets  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: cheapest time to visit Disney World, Disneyland ticket prices, Disney World discounts, how to skip lines at Disney, Lightning Lane vs Multi Pass, Disney Premier Pass cost, Disney dynamic pricing, Delta travel experience, Disney World September prices, Disney World summer discounts, Disney credit card perks, Target Disney gift card trick, Disney ticket resellers, Undercover Tourist tickets, Get Away Today Disney tickets, Disney dining plan, Disney dining deals, Disney rope drop strategy, Disney World hotel benefits, Disneyland mobile ordering, Disney World free activities, how to save at Disney, Disney character meals without ticket, Disney gift cards at Target, when to buy Disney tickets, Disney crowd calendar, Disneyland Lightning Lane explained, Disney World 3-day 3-park pass, Disney World kids ticket offer, and how to eat cheap at Disneyland. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how to use award search tools, when it’s worth it to pay for one, and how to use alerts and filters to save time and get better redemptions. What are the best tools to find award flight availability using points or miles? Is it worth paying for premium travel tools to simplify the booking process? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss the newest features in airline loyalty programs and award redemption platforms to help you save time—and points—on your next trip. Joined by NerdWallet travel writer Craig Joseph, they break down exactly how to use powerful, lesser-known tools that streamline complex points transfers and redemptions. But first, Meghan and Sally break down the latest travel news, including Disney's new Abu Dhabi park, Frontier's new companion pass, and Marriott’s expansion. Then, Craig joins Sally and Meghan to discuss award booking platforms, including Seats.aero, PointsYeah, Point.me, and Points Path. They explore how to compare award availability across programs, when paying for a tool might save you more in the long run, and why alert features are a must-have. If you’ve got points across multiple cards or loyalty programs, this episode could help you make sense of how and where to use them for real value. 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®: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card: http://nerdwallet.com/article/travel/bilt-mastercard Resources discussed in this episode: Top Airline Credit Cards With Companion Tickets https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/credit-cards/airline-credit-cards-companion-tickets  The Real ID Alternatives Travelers Might Already Have https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/the-real-id-alternatives-travelers-might-already-have  My Favorite Tools for Booking Cheap Travel https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/my-favorite-tools-for-booking-cheap-travel  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 Lounge Review: Inside Air Canada’s Maple Leaf Lounge at SFO https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/air-canada-lounge-sfo  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: award flight search tools, points and miles travel, best award booking tools, how to use points for flights, travel credit card points, seats.aero review, PointsYeah guide, how to find airline award availability, Bilt rewards travel, how to compare flight redemptions, award seat alerts, best travel rewards tools, Points Path Chrome extension, how to use Bilt rewards, transfer credit card points, airline transfer partners, Real ID airport enforcement, how to find hotel award availability, Southwest vs Frontier companion pass, how to avoid phantom award availability, great circle mapper flights, AeroLopa seat maps, how to set award seat alerts, award wallet for tracking miles, how to use Google Flights for points, how to add kids as authorized users, and family airport lounge access tips. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is a cruise actually cheaper than a land vacation? Learn how to sail smarter and save big on your next getaway. Are cruises really a budget-friendly alternative to land vacations? What’s the best credit card to use for travel and Costco expenses? Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss cruise travel, pricing strategies, and credit card hacks to help you understand how to get the most value out of your next vacation. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including Southwest Airlines’ newly rebranded fare classes and upcoming assigned seating; United Club’s updated lounge access rules; transfer bonuses from Chase Ultimate Rewards and Citi ThankYou Rewards; and a limited-time Hyatt-American Airlines promo for national parks glamping. Then, Meghan and Sally talk about cruise travel in 2025 and why it might be your smartest trip yet. They explore two brand-new ships — MSC World America and Norwegian Aqua — and break down how cruise vacations can be surprisingly cost-effective, especially when factoring in bundled perks like entertainment and dining. Sally shares additional knowledge from recent interviews, including veteran cruise reporter Matt Roseboom giving his best money-saving tips for cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line CMO Adam Malone offering insights on the unique value of cruise elite status. Plus: how to save with cruise-friendly credit cards, when to use general travel rewards versus co-branded cards, and how solo travelers can benefit from cruise line perks designed just for them. Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews: Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/southwest-rapid-rewards-priority World of Hyatt credit card: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/world-of-hyatt  Chase Sapphire Reserve: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve  Citi Costco Anywhere Visa® Card: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/costco-anywhere-visa  Wells Fargo Active Cash: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/wells-fargo-active-cash  Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/bankofamerica-cash-rewards  Norwegian Cruise Line® World Mastercard®: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/credit-cards/norwegian-cruise-line-card  Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/capital-one-venture-x  Chase Freedom Flex card: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-freedom-flex  Resources discussed in this episode: Current Credit Card Transfer Bonuses: May 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/credit-card-transfer-bonuses  Hyatt’s Under Canvas Offer: https://world.hyatt.com/content/gp/en/offers/under-canvas-american-airlines.html?icamp=woh_undercanvasamericanairlinesoffer_Q22025_offerspage_en  A First Look at MSC World America: A Family-Friendly Cruise https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/msc-world-america-review Norwegian Aqua Review: ‘Slidecoaster’ Steals the Show https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/ncl-aqua-review  Icon of the Seas: Floating Bliss or a Horror at Sea? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/icon-of-the-seas-floating-bliss-or-a-horror-at-sea  Which Is Cheaper: Disney World or a Disney Cruise? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/disney-cruise-cheaper-than-disney-world  Cash Back Credit Cards https://www.nerdwallet.com/h/category/cash-back-credit-cards  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: how to save money on cruises, best cruise credit cards, travel credit cards for cruises, Norwegian Aqua review, MSC World America review, Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady, Disney cruise vs Disney World, cruise vacation budget tips, best solo cruise lines, and credit cards with travel insurance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Explore your options for spending 100,000 credit card points, with tips on redemptions for luxury flights, hotels, and hidden travel perks. What are the best ways to use 100,000 credit card points for travel? How do you transfer points to airlines or hotels to get the most value? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss top redemptions across Chase, AmEx, and Capital One to help you stretch your points for luxury flights, high-end hotels, and memorable experiences. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including Bilt Rewards adding Southwest as a transfer partner, Citi devaluing transfer ratios for Emirates Skywards, JetBlue allowing point redemptions for Japan Airlines, Chase Travel now listing cruise itineraries online, and a new Disney World dining deal that lets kids eat free when bundled with resort stays. Then, Benjamin Din, lead travel writer at NerdWallet, joins Sally and Meghan to discuss how to make the most of 100,000 credit card points. They share tips for booking premium cabins on airlines like Lufthansa, ANA, and Virgin Atlantic, scoring great hotel stays with Hyatt and Choice Privileges, and stacking perks like complimentary breakfast, resort credits, and early park access through AmEx’s Fine Hotels & Resorts collection. Whether you’re planning a European getaway, a theme park weekend, or an all-inclusive escape, this episode explores flexible, high-value ways to use your points strategically. Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews: Citi Strata Premier Review Chase Sapphire Preferred Review Citi AAdvantage Platinum Card Review American Express Platinum Review Resources discussed in this episode: Cruises Now Searchable on Chase’s Travel Portal  11 Things to Do with 100K Chase Ultimate Rewards Points  Loews Portofino Bay at Universal Studios: The Best Way To Use The Amex $200 Hotel Credit  5 Best Ways to Use Delta SkyMiles  5 Best Credit Card Points Programs and Who They Partner With In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: best travel credit card redemptions, Chase Ultimate Rewards Hyatt transfer, Capital One transfer partners, American Express fine hotels and resorts, best hotel redemptions with points, using AmEx points for Universal hotels, Lufthansa first class on points, ANA first class with points, best transfer partners for credit card points, Hyatt award chart, Virgin Atlantic upper class points, flying blue promo rewards, Air Canada Aeroplan redemptions, Iberia Avios business class, Choice Privileges points value, hotel points vs flight points, Bilt rewards southwest transfer, Citi Emirates transfer ratio, JetBlue Japan Airlines points, cruises with Chase points, AmEx Platinum hotel perks, vacation rentals with points, Virgin Red vs Virgin Atlantic, British Airways Avios redemptions, Delta SkyMiles deals, redeem points for Europe flights, stackable Disney deals 2026, Universal Studios hotel rewards, Marriott vs Hyatt redemptions, award travel sweet spots, short haul Avios flights, and theme park travel rewards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices