Best Points Talk Squad Your Travel Dreams Podcasts (2025)

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A Special Announcement... 11:11

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15h ago11:11

11:11

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 chan…

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Adventure by Committee: What Happens When You Let Others Pick Your Trip 54:42

6d ago54:42

54:42

Sally and her new husband unpack their unconventional honeymoon plan and share practical tips to plan your own getaway with purpose. How do you plan a honeymoon that feels luxurious without blowing your budget? How can newlyweds use points and miles to pay for their trip? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle share how Sally’s own wedding guests chos…

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154. Top Destinations for Girls' Trips on Points 54:17

5d ago54:17

54:17

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 point…

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How to Tell If a Premium Travel Card Is Worth the Fee 55:51

13d ago55:51

55:51

Learn when pricey travel cards are worth it and how to pick the one that gives you the most value. Are premium travel cards worth the high price tag? How do you decide which one(s) to keep in your wallet? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle break down the real-world math of annual fees and rewards to help you understand when these cards pay for the…

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153. Switzerland on Points: Jess's Jungfrau & Zurich Adventure 46:48

14d ago46:48

46:48

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…

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How to Make Every Trip More Meaningful — Without Spending More (w/ Expedia’s “Powering Travel” Host Elisabeth Goodridge) 33:03

20d ago33:03

33:03

Learn how you can make travel more meaningful without overspending or missing out on authentic experiences. How do you plan a vacation that feels “worth it” without overspending? What’s the smartest way to turn bank points into long-haul premium flights? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss how to design trips that maximize satisfaction and …

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152. Plan the Perfect Morocco Adventure: Sahara Desert, Medina Walks, and the Blue City 57:04

21d ago57:04

57:04

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…

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Travel More, Stress Less: How to Build a Financial Plan That Funds Your Adventures 44:51

27d ago44:51

44:51

Learn how to plan travel without derailing your long-term finances or your retirement goals. How can you plan travel without throwing off your long-term financial goals? How do you budget for a dream sabbatical without wrecking your savings? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss how to afford meaningful travel while keeping your financial fut…

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151. Battle of Premium Cards: Value vs. Cost and Our Top Picks (Part 2) 35:25

28d ago35:25

35:25

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…

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When to Book and Fly for Cheaper Holiday Trips in 2025 23:36

1M ago23:36

23:36

Learn the optimal days to fly, when to book, and how to stretch your points for cheaper holiday travel. When is the prime time to book Thanksgiving and Christmas flights this year? How can you stretch points to cover pricey holiday trips? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss holiday booking windows and money-saving strategies to help you lan…

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150. Battle of Premium Cards: Rewards, Earning Power, and Perks (Part 1) 43:40

1M ago43:40

43:40

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, …

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Enjoy the Halloween Travel Boom Without Getting Scared by Prices (Video Episode) 30:48

1M ago30:48

30:48

In this special video episode, watch Sally brave haunted attractions and reveal the surprising rise of Halloween vacations. Is Halloween travel worth the money right now? Which fall travel deals are worth your time? Watch hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss how Halloween became a peak travel moment and what it really costs — and see how Sal…

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149. Micro-Trips: Short Getaways With Mega Value 29:54

1M ago29:54

29:54

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, an…

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Stop Wasting Time (and Miles): Points vs. Cash Tools for Easier Booking 33:34

2M ago33:34

33:34

Confused by points vs. cash? Discover how to stretch your miles further and save on your next trip. Should you use points or cash for your next flight? How do you find award availability that’s worth booking? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle dig into points redemption and partner programs to help you understand when it makes the most sense to re…

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148. Break These Popular Award Travel "Rules" 30:39

2M ago30:39

30:39

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 ig…

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Getting Paid to Plan Trips Doesn't Have to Be a Full-Time Job: How to Become a Travel Advisor in 2025 38:21

2M ago38:21

38:21

Fora cofounder Henley Vazquez reveals how travelers turn trip planning into income and which destinations are trending. How much money can you make working part-time as a travel advisor? What are the startup costs to get into the industry? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle explore how you can turn trip planning into income and what that means for…

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147. Staying at the Miraval Arizona All-Inclusive Wellness Resort on Points 40:30

2M ago40:30

40:30

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 ho…

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Keep or Cut the Amex Platinum? What New Perks Mean for Frequent Travelers 33:39

2M ago33:39

33:39

The Platinum Card® from American Express announced that its annual fee just went up. Learn how to decide if the new credits, perks, and lounge access are worth it. Is the Amex Platinum worth its higher annual fee? How do you maximize new statement credits without lifestyle creep? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss the Amex Platinum’s updat…

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146. One Card From Each Bank: Our Top Picks 45:14

2M ago45:14

45:14

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-t…

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How One Family Flew Business Class to Europe on Points — and Stayed in Style 29:24

2M ago29:24

29:24

Learn how an entire family traveled to Europe on points, including business class flights, boutique stays, and mountain escapes. How do you book business-class flights to Europe for a family of four using points? How do you cover hotels and vacation rentals with rewards while meeting Europe’s room occupancy rules? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyl…

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145. How To Earn the Southwest® Companion Pass for Free Flights 34:24

2M ago34:24

34:24

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…

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Cash or Miles? The 2025 Points Valuations That Could Change How You Travel 42:36

3M ago42:36

42:36

Get fresh NerdWallet data on what your points and miles are really worth in 2025 — and why the answer might change how you book travel. Should you take a $650 flight voucher or 32,500 miles? How much are your points and miles actually worth? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle break down the latest NerdWallet valuations to help you make smarter red…

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144. First-Time International Travel Made Easy: Top Destinations and Practical Tips 44:45

3M ago44:45

44:45

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 t…

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Airport Lounge Access, Family Award Travel, and Cruise Savings: Your Questions Answered 28:49

3M ago28:49

28:49

Learn how to get into airport lounges, stretch rewards for family travel, and score the best cruise deals from New York. How can you get into airport lounges if you don’t have elite status? What’s the cheapest way to book a cruise from New York? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle dig into your questions about airport lounges, family travel, cruise…

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143. Europe Travel with Kids: Traci's Hotel Booking Strategies for Families 49:39

3M ago49:39

49:39

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 s…

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How to Pay for Study Abroad and Save Overseas (Plus: Alaska Airlines’ New Rewards Program and Premium Travel Card) 32:34

3M ago32:34

32:34

Budget smarter for study abroad and learn how to cover costs with scholarships, aid, and credit cards. Plus: get the inside scoop on Alaska Airlines’ new premium airline credit card. Can you save money by studying abroad? What scholarships and financial aid can actually cover international programs? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss the c…

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142. Chase Ultimate Rewards®: Key Updates & Our Favorite Earning Cards 39:18

3M ago39:18

39:18

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 Squa…

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Pack Smarter, Spend Less: How to Travel Light Without Losing Comfort 26:04

3M ago26:04

26:04

Learn how to pack smarter and lighter with actionable tips to save money, avoid fees, and travel stress-free. What travel gear can you stop packing to cut costs? How much money can you save by packing your luggage the right way? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss smart packing tips that could have a real impact on your travel spending. But…

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141. Bora Bora on Points: Flights, Hotels, and Upgrades 1:07:03

3M ago1:07:03

1:07:03

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 re…

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Lost Bag Bailout: How Travel Insurance and Credit Cards Can Save You Thousands 35:16

3M ago35:16

35:16

Handle lost luggage like a pro with tips for getting reimbursed and packing smarter to avoid future headaches. What should you do when your luggage disappears on an international trip? Which credit cards and travel insurance policies actually help when this happens? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss Meghan’s real-life saga of lost luggage…

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140. Maximize Hotel Free-Night Certificates: Comparing Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and IHG 48:20

3M ago48:20

48:20

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, …

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Your Travel Credit Card Questions Answered: What to Keep, What to Add, and When to Redeem 34:10

4M ago34:10

34:10

Optimize your travel rewards strategy with the latest card and perk updates, smart downgrade-and-reapply moves, and tips for combining and redeeming points for maximum value. Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle answer listener questions to help you travel smarter. But first, they share a ton of recent credit card news, including Citi launching a pr…

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139. Travel Light: Carry-On Only Packing and Essential Tips 48:59

4M ago48:59

48:59

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 Squa…

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New Consumer Protections Could Save You Hundreds on Your Next Flight 33:57

4M ago33:57

33:57

Learn how new consumer protections can help you get refunds, rebook faster, and stress less when you fly. What protections do you have if your flight is delayed, canceled, or your bag goes missing? How do you know if your airline will rebook you or leave you stranded? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle dive into a new report revealing which airlin…

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138. The BEST Hotel Chain for Using & Earning Points 41:19

4M ago41:19

41:19

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…

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Italy Beyond the Tourist Map: How to Get Around, Spend Less, and Explore Like a Local 34:52

4M ago34:52

34:52

Plan smarter for your next trip to Italy with cost-saving tips and strategies to avoid common tourist traps. When is the best time to visit Italy? How can you avoid overspending while still having an unforgettable experience? Hosts Megan Coyle and Sally French break down the logistics and hidden costs of traveling to Italy, from airfare and lodging…

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137. Iceland & Ireland with Points: Jess's 10-Day Family Adventure 48:45

4M ago48:45

48:45

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 s…

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How to Travel the World on $75 a Day: What Savvy Travelers Do Differently to Make Every Dollar Count 31:24

4M ago31:24

31:24

Stretch your travel budget with smarter planning, real savings hacks, and $75-a-day global travel strategies. Can you really see the world for just $75 a day? Can you cut travel costs without sacrificing comfort or experience? Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss planning a trip for less than $75 per day with Matt Kepnes, aka Nomadic Matt. But fir…

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136. Solo Travel Tips & Points Strategies with Kelsi from PointSisters 43:29

4M ago43:29

43:29

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 p…

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What AI Can’t Book: How Travel Advisors Deliver VIP Perks at No Extra Cost 33:00

5M ago33:00

33:00

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 …

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135. Where to Stay in Maui: Are Timeshare Presentations Worth It? 1:00:15

5M ago1:00:15

1:00:15

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 additi…

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Summer Travel Deals: Where Prices Are Dropping and How to Book Luxury for Less 34:51

5M ago34:51

34:51

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 vacatio…

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134. 2025 Points & Miles Changes You Need to Know 37:14

5M ago37:14

37:14

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 signific…

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Big Changes to a Top Travel Card — Is It Still Worth It or Is There a Better Fit for You? 31:57

5M ago31:57

31:57

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 Chas…

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133. Travel to Spain Using Points: TMS Takes Madrid, Barcelona, and Mallorca 52:21

5M ago52:21

52:21

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.…

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Making Group Travel Work: Planning Trips for Different Budgets, Ages, and Interests 32:07

5M ago32:07

32:07

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 …

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132. Greece and Croatia with Kids: Megan's Points and Miles Strategy 55:58

5M ago55:58

55:58

Taking your family with young kids to Greece and Croatia might seem daunting, but with strategic use of points and miles, it can become an unforgettable adventure. Travel Mom Squad's Director of Operations, Megan, shares how she planned an ambitious spring break trip that included iconic destinations like Santorini's blue domes and Croatia's stunni…

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Is Epic Universe the Future of Theme Parks? Here’s How to Save When You Go 34:53

6M ago34:53

34:53

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 dis…

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131. Agree to Disagree: Best Lounge Access, Hotel Loyalty Programs, and More 42:05

6M ago42:05

42:05

If you love points and miles, you know there's no shortage of opinions on how to get the most out of credit card rewards and travel programs. In this fun and honest chat, Alex, Jess, and Pam share their unique takes on some hot topics in the points world. They dive into everything from which credit cards score you the best lounge access, to whether…

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How to Plan an Itinerary That Saves Money, Avoids Crowds, and Unlocks Hidden Gems 30:40

6M ago30:40

30:40

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 t…