Afleveringen
-
Learn how ADHD shapes travel decisions, and the strategies that turn travel stress into a strength.
Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss how to make travel less stressful for ADHD brains, with tips to help you avoid lost passports, missed flights and packing mishaps. But first, Sally breaks down the latest travel headlines with producer Tess Vigeland, discussing Wyndham Rewards' overhaul of its award chart, Bilt's new transfer partnership with Preferred Hotels & Resorts' I Prefer program, and the debut of a new Delta One lounge at LAX.
Then, Dr. Andrew Kahn, Associate Director of Expertise and Behavioral Health Innovation at Understood.org, joins Sally and Meghan to discuss traveling with ADHD, with tips and tricks on managing time blindness at the airport, organizing your bag and routines to avoid sensory overload, and budgeting for trips without overspending.
Help us plan our next live event! Take our quick survey to let us know where you would be most excited to meet our hosts and fellow listeners: https://forms.gle/BqQz7JR6ThxdgSEY6
Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:
American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits
Is a Bilt Credit Card Worth It?
Bilt Blue Card: Complex Housing Rewards, Modest Everyday Ones
Bilt Obsidian Card: Fine for Foodies, Complex for Housing
Bilt Palladium Card: Rewards on Housing Are Almost Secondary
Resources discussed in this episode:
Will Wyndham’s New Award Chart Benefit You? It’s Complicated
The Guide to Bilt Transfer Partners
New Delta One Lounge at LAX: A Sushi Bar and Sky Deck
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Find out which credit cards could turn your wedding costs into a business class honeymoon.
Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss the best credit cards for wedding expenses and how to use the points you earn to pay for your honeymoon. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including data projecting a record number of Independence Day travelers and which days to avoid (or target) for flying and driving, Sally's preview sailing aboard Royal Caribbean's new Legend of the Seas, the Amex Platinum Saks Fifth Avenue credit disappearing on July 1st, and new data from AirDNA showing nightly average Airbnb prices are now surpassing hotel averages.
Then, they dig into the best credit cards for wedding spending, with tips on how to match a card to your venue type (hotel versus non-hotel), why many vendors won't let you pay by credit card and how to maximize the ones that will, and how to reverse-engineer your honeymoon destination to pick the right points currency. They also answer a question from Jessie, who will be getting married at a Marriott Autograph Hotel, about whether the math works to pay with a Marriott card despite the processing fee.
Help us plan our next live event! Take our quick survey to let us know where you would be most excited to meet our hosts and fellow listeners: https://forms.gle/BqQz7JR6ThxdgSEY6
Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:
Citi Double Cash Review: A Solid Choice for Everyday Spending
Capital One Venture Review: Easy Earnings, Effortless Redemptions
Capital One Venture X Review: A Steal of a Deal Among Premium Cards
Bilt Palladium Card: Rewards on Housing Are Almost Secondary
Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards Review: Choose Your Own Bonus Category
Costco Anywhere Visa Review: Bulked-Up Savings for Members
Amazon Prime Visa Review: Perhaps the Ultimate Store Card
Marriott Bonvoy Bevy American Express Review: Ho-Hum for a High Price
World of Hyatt Card Review: Lavish Benefits, Reasonable Cost
Hilton Honors Aspire Review: Rich Rewards, Luxury Perks for a Price
Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card
American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits
American Express Gold Card Review: Friendly for Foodies, Families
Resources discussed in this episode:
The Best Days to Fly Around July Fourth
BofA Rewards: More Rewards With Every Purchase
The Best Travel Credit Card Welcome Offers Right Now
7 Stunning All-Inclusives to Book With Points
PointsYeah Award Search Review: A Great Tool for Points Collectors
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
-
Learn what it really costs to honeymoon in one of the world's least-visited countries and how to get there on points.
Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French share what it actually costs to honeymoon in one of the world's least-visited countries. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including the new Chase Sapphire Preferred benefits that went live June 15th, a full Wyndham Rewards card family refresh that added a brand-new premium card, why airfares are up more than 26% year-over-year amid broader travel price increases, and highlights from AAA's new Five Diamond Hotels list.
Then, they discuss Sally's Madagascar honeymoon from every angle, with tips on whether a group tour could be the right call for destinations with little tourist infrastructure, why countries with the lowest cost of living can be among the most expensive places to visit, and how to score business class seats on Ethiopian Airlines for 80,000 United miles to one of the farthest destinations from San Francisco on earth. They also feature an interview with Madagascar guide Zu Rakuthu Nirina and answer a listener’s question about using 176,000 United miles for flights from SFO to Singapore.
Help us plan our next live event! Take our quick survey to let us know where you would be most excited to meet our hosts and fellow listeners: https://forms.gle/BqQz7JR6ThxdgSEY6
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 Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards
5 Things to Know About the Wyndham Rewards Earner Business Card
Wyndham Credit Cards Get a Glow-Up and a New Premium Sibling
Wyndham Rewards Earner Plus Review: Solid Rewards and Perks for Loyalists
Wyndham Rewards Earner Credit Card Review: Ideal for Frugal Travelers
Resources discussed in this episode:
PointsYeah Award Search Review: A Great Tool for Points Collectors
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Learn how the Chase Sapphire Preferred's biggest refresh in years could change how you earn and redeem travel points.
Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French break down the latest travel headlines, including Delta's expanded free checked bag perk, a new ride-hailing credit on select Delta cards, a second Delta One Lounge coming to LAX, World of Hyatt's new 12-month advance booking window for cardholders and elite members, and two changes hitting Atmos Rewards members.
Then, they dig into the Chase Sapphire Preferred's first major overhaul in five years. The annual fee is staying at $95 but the card is getting new benefits, updated earning categories, and some trade-offs worth knowing about. Meghan and Sally walk through every change, weigh the pros and cons, and compare the Preferred to other travel cards to help you figure out whether it still deserves a spot in your wallet.
*In this episode, we misstated how the new $100 annual Chase Travel hotel credit applies to existing cardholders. Existing cardholders received an additional $50 credit on June 15, 2026 for their anniversary year.
Help us plan our next live event! Take our quick survey to let us know where you would be most excited to meet our hosts and fellow listeners: https://forms.gle/BqQz7JR6ThxdgSEY6
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 Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards
Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card
World of Hyatt Card Review: Lavish Benefits, Reasonable Cost
Bilt Obsidian Card: Fine for Foodies, Complex for Housing
Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Review: Highly Rewarding for Travelers
Wells Fargo Autograph Review: Big Rewards, No Annual Fee
Bank of America Premium Rewards Review: Big Bonuses for B of A's Best Customers
Citi Strata Premier: Big Rewards Across Top Spending Categories
Atmos Rewards Summit Card: Perks as Rare as They Are Valuable
Delta SkyMiles Gold AmEx Review: Pricey for What You Get
Delta SkyMiles Platinum AmEx Review: One Big Perk Pays the Fee
Delta Reserve Credit Card: $650 Annual Fee, Sky Club Access
U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Review: Good for Travel and Gas
Resources discussed in this episode:
Citi ThankYou Transfer Partners: A Complete Guide
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Learn how to earn more points and miles on everyday shopping using portals, dining programs, and partner apps.
Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss the sometimes-overlooked ways you could earn bonus points and miles on purchases you're already making. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including new summer airfare price drop data from Kayak's updated trends dashboard, T-Mobile Tuesday deals with travel perks for June, Hilton's new college-themed hotel brand called Undergraduate, and the opening of Alaska Airlines' renovated lounge at Portland International Airport.
Then, Meghan and Sally dig into online shopping portals, explaining how tools like Rakuten, airline-specific portals (including American's AAdvantage eShopping, which earns loyalty points toward elite status), hotel booking platforms like Gondola, and the up-and-coming Rove Miles program could help you stack rewards on top of your credit card earnings. They also cover airline dining programs, brand partnerships with Uber, Lyft, and Starbucks, and the aggregator Cashback Monitor so you can see at a glance which portal offers the best rate for any retailer.
Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:
Choice Privileges Mastercard: Useful Bonus Categories, No Annual Fee
Choice Privileges Select Mastercard: Piles of Points for a $95 Annual Fee
Bilt Blue Card: Complex Housing Rewards, Modest Everyday Ones
Bilt Obsidian Card: Fine for Foodies, Complex for Housing
Bilt Palladium Card: Rewards on Housing Are Almost Secondary
American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits
American Express Gold Card Review: Friendly for Foodies, Families
Resources discussed in this episode:
Inside the New Portland Alaska Lounge: A Treehouse in the Forest
Best Credit Card Bonuses for New Cardholders of June 2026
Credit Card Transfer Partners At a Glance
The Capital One Shopping Portal Is Changing How I Book Travel
The Guide to Rove Miles
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Learn how summer 2026 travel costs are rising and which booking strategies could help you save money this season.
Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss what's driving up summer travel costs in 2026 and how to plan smarter despite them. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including what American Express's new partnership with Fanatics could mean for sports fans and points collectors, a new Bilt deal allowing certain cardholders to earn miles on rent payments with Air France/KLM and Alaska Atmos, major updates at Disney World and Disneyland, and findings from Expedia's summer travel report on the return of last-minute booking.
Then, Meghan and Sally dig into the full picture of summer travel in 2026, with tips and tricks on when airfares and hotel prices hit their seasonal floor, which domestic and international destinations are trending this summer, and how to decide whether spending points or paying cash makes more sense when prices are climbing fast.
Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:
Atmos Rewards Ascent Review: Well Worth $95 a Year https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/alaska-airlines-credit-card
5 Things to Know About the Air France-KLM Credit Card https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/learn/air-france-klm-credit-card
Fanatics Rewards Card from American Express https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/news/amex-fanatics-to-partner-on-credit-card
Resources discussed in this episode:
How Much Are Travel Points and Miles Worth in 2026? https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/airline-miles-and-hotel-points-valuations
2026 Summer Travel Report: 42% Would Rather Stay Home Than Book Budget Travel https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/studies/summer-travel-report
The Best Days to Book a Flight and When to Fly https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/best-days-book-flight-fly
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Meet Your Next Dollar, a new podcast from NerdWallet Wealth Partners. This is the podcast for you if you are a high earner learning how to build wealth, navigate money trade-offs, and spend on what you actually value.
Follow Your Next Dollar on your favorite podcast app: https://play.megaphone.fm/a4ijxxsst1inho456fxbha
Interested in working with a financial advisor? Visit nerdwalletwealthpartners.com
NerdWallet Wealth Partners LLC (NWWP) is a SEC registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training, nor does it constitute an endorsement by any securities regulator. The content presented by NWWP on its Your Next Dollar podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as personalized investment, tax, or legal advice to any person. The views, strategies, examples, and figures discussed are intended to be general in nature, subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and may not be suitable for every individual. Any hypothetical illustrations used are for educational purposes only and do not represent a guarantee or prediction of future results. All investments carry risk, including the potential loss of principal, and past performance is not a guarantee of future results. NWWP's investment advisory services are only offered where NWWP and its representatives are registered. Before making any financial decision, seek advice from a qualified investment, tax, or legal professional.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Learn how the new World of Hyatt award chart changes your points value and which hotels are still worth booking.
Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle dig into the sweeping changes to the World of Hyatt award chart to help you decide whether Hyatt points are still worth earning and how to use them wisely. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including a surge in airfares driven by rising oil costs and the Spirit Airlines shutdown, the new JetBlue and United reciprocal loyalty program benefits, record Memorial Day travel projections, a new Marriott Bonvoy and Outside Magazine partnership, and a roundup of deals and new attractions at Disneyland and Disney World this summer.
Then, Sally and Meghan go deep on the new World of Hyatt award chart that rolled out on May 20th, covering what changed with the new five-tier pricing structure, which hotel categories are seeing the biggest cost jumps, and why Hyatt points could still hold strong value compared to competing programs. They share their favorite Hyatt properties around the globe, and discuss strategies for earning points through hotel stays, the World of Hyatt credit cards, and transfer partners including Chase Ultimate Rewards and Bilt. Plus: Sally and Meghan answer a listener’s question about which card to consider for a large Marriott family stay over Thanksgiving.
Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:
World of Hyatt Card Review: Lavish Benefits, Reasonable Cost
World of Hyatt Business Credit Card: High-Value Points But No Free Night
Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card
Marriott Bonvoy Bevy American Express Review: Ho-Hum for a High Price
Resources discussed in this episode:
How Much Are Travel Points and Miles Worth in 2026?
Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card
Big Changes to a Top Travel Card — Is It Still Worth It or Is There a Better Fit for You? (Smart Travel episode about the Chase Sapphire Reserve card)
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Learn how to travel for less by swapping homes or pet sitting with strangers around the world.
Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss how house swapping and house sitting can cut your lodging costs to help you stretch your travel dollars further. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including Rove's new Aeroplan transfer partnership, fresh perks rolling out on the JetBlue Premier Card, surprising findings from the 2026 J.D. Power North American Airline Satisfaction Study, IHG's new summer points promotion, and what slow bookings ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup could mean for travelers.
Then, joined by longtime Kindred host Bob Krinsky and Asheville-based Trusted Housesitters host Robert Barclay, they discuss what it's actually like to swap homes or invite a stranger to pet sit, with tips and tricks on choosing a platform that vets its members, building trust with potential sitters or swappers, and saving on the extras like pet care and rides to the airport.
Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:
JetBlue Premier Review: $300 Credit, Lounge Access and More https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/jetblue-premier
JetBlue Plus Review: Bundle of Benefits, Reasonable Annual Fee https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/jetblue-plus
Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/chase-sapphire-reserve
American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/american-express-platinum
Resources discussed in this episode:
The Guide to Rove Miles https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/guide-to-rove-miles
The Guide to Air Canada Aeroplan https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/air-canada
Current Credit Card Transfer Bonuses: May 2026 https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/credit-card-transfer-bonuses
JetBlue Premier Adding Companion Pass, Enhancing Travel Credit https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/news/jetblue-premier-new-perks
The Guide to IHG One Rewards https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/ihg-rewards-more-value-for-the-frugal-traveler
Book These Hyatt Properties Now Before Award Costs Go Up on May 20 https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/news/book-these-hyatt-properties-before-may-2026-devaluation
Best Hotel Credit Cards for Free Nights https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/best-hotel-credit-cards-for-free-nights
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Learn how to maximize Chase points for family Hawaii trips, travel with infants, and pick the right rewards card.
Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French dig into a mailbag of listener questions covering points strategy, family travel, and the trade-offs of different hotel booking platforms. But first, Meghan is joined by Smart Money host Elizabeth Ayoola, filling in for Sally, to break down the latest travel headlines, including the Spirit Airlines shutdown, a new Wells Fargo transfer partner, a big new sign-up bonus for the Chase Sapphire Reserve, anniversary updates to the Amex Gold Card, and two new direct routes from the U.S. to Rome.
Then, Meghan and Sally answer listener questions, with tips and tricks on saving Chase points for future family travel, navigating travel insurance claims on award flights, using points and price trackers to score a family Hawaii trip, picking the right next credit card when you live outside a big city, choosing your next solo female travel destination, and comparing Gondola and Roame for hotel bookings.
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: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card
Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards
Chase Freedom Unlimited Card Review
American Express Gold Card Review: Dining Rewards Royalty
American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits
World of Hyatt Card Review: Lavish Benefits, Reasonable Cost
Bilt Palladium Card: Rewards on Housing Are Almost Secondary
Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Review: Highly Rewarding for Travelers
Citi AAdvantage Platinum Credit Card Review
Resources discussed in this episode:
Spirit Airlines Has Shut Down: Here's What to Do
Guide to Cathay Pacific Asia Miles
Chase Sapphire Reserve's Welcome Offer Reaches Highest Level Yet
11 Things to Do with 150K Chase Ultimate Rewards Points
American Express Gold Card Unveils New and Updated Benefits
Star Alliance: The Complete Guide
Hyatt's New Award Chart Raises Points Prices for Most Nights
Points Path Review: A Free Tool To Compare Costs
Gondola Hotel Search Review: It's My Favorite Tool
Roame Award Search Tool Review
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Learn how travel credit cards with annual fees under $100 can earn you free flights, hotel nights, and perks.
Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss travel credit cards with annual fees under $100 to help you earn meaningful rewards without splurging on a premium card. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including Hyatt's award chart changes taking effect May 20, Disney's 2026 Halloween event dates, expiring welcome offers on the Disney Inspire and Chase Freedom Unlimited cards, new Chase Sapphire Reserve perks at The Edit collection hotels, and the Trump administration's potential bailout of Spirit Airlines.
Then, they discuss why a sub-$100 annual fee card can punch well above its weight for the right traveler. They break down their picks across four categories: cards for travel spending, everyday spending, hotel co-brands, and airline co-brands. You'll get tips on free night certificates, statement credits, and transfer partners, plus when these cards genuinely compete with premium options.
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 Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards
Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card
Chase Freedom Unlimited Review: A Potential One-Card Solution
Chase Freedom Flex: Multiple Bonus Rewards in One Card
Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card Review
Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Review: Highly Rewarding for Travelers
Wells Fargo Autograph Review: Big Rewards, No Annual Fee
PenFed Pathfinder Rewards Card: Premium Credits, With a Few Caveats
Capital One Venture Review: Easy Earnings, Effortless Redemptions
Capital One Venture X Review: A Steal of a Deal Among Premium Cards
Bilt Obsidian Card: Fine for Foodies, Complex for Housing
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Review: Premier Perks Abound
IHG One Rewards Premier Review: Free Nights on a Silver Platter
World of Hyatt Card Review: Lavish Benefits, Reasonable Cost
Citi AAdvantage Platinum Credit Card Review
Atmos Rewards Ascent Review: Well Worth $95 a Year
JetBlue Plus Review: Bundle of Benefits, Reasonable Fee
Disney Inspire Visa: A Whole New World of Generous Benefits
Resources discussed in this episode:
Hyatt's New Award Chart Raises Points Prices for Most Nights
A First Look at MSC World America: A Family-Friendly Cruise
The Guide to Wells Fargo Transfer Partners
The Guide to Bilt Transfer Partners
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Learn how earning status with one airline can unlock lounges and elite perks on more than a dozen other airlines worldwide.
First, host Meghan Coyle breaks down the week’s top travel headlines with producer Tess Vigeland (filling in for Sally French), including a new Google Hotels feature that lets you track prices on a specific hotel (not just a city), Wells Fargo adding Wyndham Rewards as a transfer partner, Air New Zealand’s controversial new Skynest bunk bed cabin, Chase expanding its Plum Guide vacation rental program to Sapphire cardholders, Hilton’s new apartment-style properties, and Norse Atlantic canceling Los Angeles flights amid rising fuel costs.
Then, Sally joins Meghan for a conversation with Gilbert Ott, Director of Loyalty at the OneWorld Airline Alliance. They explore how airline alliance membership can elevate every trip you take, with tips and insights on how OneWorld’s Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald elite status tiers work across all 15 member airlines, which world-class airport lounges you can access as a OneWorld elite member, and what Hawaiian Airlines’ new membership in the Alliance means for your miles and travel experience.
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: Strong Option for Travel Rewards https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/chase-sapphire-preferred
Chase Sapphire Reserve® Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/chase-sapphire-reserve
Wells Fargo Autograph® Card Review: Big Rewards, No Annual Fee https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/wells-fargo-autograph
Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Review: Highly Rewarding for Travelers https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/wells-fargo-autograph-journey
Resources discussed in this episode:
Wells Fargo Transfer Partners: What to Know https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/wells-fargo-transfer-partners
Air New Zealand's Skynest Bunk Beds Are Coming This Fall https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/news/air-new-zealand-skynest-launch
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Learn how families can use points and miles to fly, earn companion passes, and book hotels without paying full price.
Before delving into the ins and outs of family travel, hosts Meghan Coyle and Tess Vigeland (filling in for Sally French) break down the latest travel headlines, including an increase in checked bag fees across all four major U.S. airlines, American Airlines stripping elite status perks from basic economy bookings, Rove Miles adding new transfer partners, Virgin Voyages' Brilliant Lady arriving in Los Angeles for West Coast sailings, and Tess's long-awaited — and ultimately successful — effort to get a refund from Iberia Airlines after a delayed flight in Spain.
Then, Sally joins Meghan for a discussion with Erin Hurd, points expert and NerdWallet's director of travel, about how families can travel on points without losing their minds. Erin shares tips and tricks on flying babies and toddlers affordably, using family miles pooling programs to combine points across household members, earning companion passes to stretch your travel budget further, and booking hotels strategically when you need connecting rooms or extra space.
Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:
Delta SkyMiles Gold AmEx Review: Pricey for What You Get
Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Review: Modest Perks, Big Bonus
American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits
Bank of America Premium Rewards Review: Big Bonuses for B of A’s Best Customers
Is the New Alaska Atmos Summit Card Worth a $395 Annual Fee?
Resources discussed in this episode:
The Guide to Rove Miles
Top Airline Credit Cards With Companion Tickets
My Favorite Tools for Booking Cheap Travel
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Learn what it really takes to fly and stay somewhere with your pet, from carrier rules to hidden fees.
Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss the best airlines and hotels for traveling with pets to help you avoid hidden fees and stressed-out animals. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including elevated welcome offers on Hilton co-branded cards expiring April 15, new signup bonuses on the Atmos Rewards cards from Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines' new international business class launching from Seattle, upcoming American Express Centurion Lounge openings in Boston and Charlotte and an expansion at Dallas Fort Worth, Amex dropping Etihad as a transfer partner, Southwest Rapid Rewards cardholders now earning up to 5x points on Lyft rides, and new JetBlue TrueBlue redemption options for travel fees including pet travel.
Then, joined by traveler Jana Kate, who has brought her dog Poquito on trips across Europe, they discuss the real costs and logistics of traveling with pets, with tips and tricks on choosing the right airline and hotel for your pet, navigating fees that can vary per night versus per stay, and what to know before you book with a furry companion in tow.
Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:
Hilton AmEx Surpass Review: Credits Can Offset the High Fee
Hilton AmEx Review: Solid Rewards for No Annual Fee
Hilton Honors Aspire Review: Rich Rewards, Luxury Perks for a Price
Atmos Rewards Ascent Review: Well Worth $95 a Year
Atmos Rewards Summit Card: Perks as Unique as They Are Valuable
Southwest Priority Card Review: Pay More, Get More
Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Review: Modest Perks, Big Bonus
Southwest Premier Credit Card Review: The Middle Seat of Cards
Resources discussed in this episode:
The Best Airlines for Flying With Pets in 2026
Best Hotels for Pets in 2026
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Learn how to save on flights, hotels, and tickets when you travel for major sporting events like the FIFA World Cup, the PGA Championship, or the Olympics.
Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss the ins and outs of planning travel for major sporting events. But first, Sally breaks down this week’s headlines with producer Tess Vigeland, including what TSA’s long-delayed pay could mean for airport security lines, Sally’s experience using Touchless ID at JFK, United’s new Dreamliner cabins and Relax Row seats, United’s MileagePlus earning changes, Bilt adding Wyndham Rewards as a transfer partner, and new Royal Caribbean cruise credit cards.
Then, Sally and Meghan discuss how to travel for sporting events without going broke, with tips and tricks on when to stay farther from the venue, how to use public transit and alternate airports, when vacation packages can beat booking everything separately, how to think about ticket presales and premium card perks, and when it might be smarter to skip the stadium and enjoy the fan festivities instead. They also look ahead to the FIFA World Cup, the PGA Championship, Formula 1 races, the NBA All-Star Game, the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, and future Super Bowls. Plus: they answer a listener’s question about cash-back cards versus points cards.
Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:
Wells Fargo Active Cash Card Review: 2% Cash Back With a Bonus
Wells Fargo Autograph Review: Big Rewards, No Annual Fee
Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards
Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card
American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits
10 Things to Know About the AmEx Centurion Black Card
Resources discussed in this episode:
First Look: United’s Most Premium Plane With Polaris Studios
United Makes Major Changes to Miles Earning Rates
28 Benefits of the Chase Sapphire Reserve
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Learn how to skip rental car lines, lower costs, and avoid pricey insurance mistakes on your next trip.
When should you rent at the airport, and when should you skip a car entirely? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle break down how to rent a car in 2026 without overpaying, wasting time at the counter, or getting tripped up by confusing coverage. But first, they unpack the latest travel headlines, including long TSA lines during the federal partial shutdown, fresh findings from NerdWallet’s 2026 summer travel survey, Hilton’s new Yotel partnership, Citi ending points sharing, and Chase’s new hotel price-match feature.
Then, Sally and Meghan dig into rental car strategy, with tips and tricks on booking early and repricing later, comparing airport and city pickup spots, and deciding when Turo, Uber Rent, Zipcar, or public transit make more sense than a standard rental. They also cover which credit card perks matter most, how rental car elite status can help you skip lines or add drivers, when EV rentals can save money or create hassles, and why their editor Claire and colleague Craig come up in a conversation about portal pricing, rental car dread, and smarter booking choices.
Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:
American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits
AmEx Business Platinum Card: High Fee Pays Off for Big-Spending Travelers
AmEx Green Review: Triple Points on Dining and Travel, Plus Credits
Hilton Honors Aspire Review: Rich Rewards, Luxury Perks for a Price
Capital One Venture X Review: A Steal of a Deal Among Premium Cards
Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business Review: Big Perks, Bigger Fee
Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card
Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards
United Club Infinite Review: $695 Fee May Still Lure Lounge Lovers
5 Things to Know About the Bank of America Premium Rewards Elite Credit Card
Resources discussed in this episode:
TSA PreCheck Touchless ID: How It Works, Where It’s Offered
How to Get Clear for Free
Citi Transfer Partners: A Complete Guide
My Favorite Tools for Booking Cheap Travel
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Learn how to cut the cost of a ski trip before lift tickets, rentals and parking wipe out your budget.
How do you keep a ski trip from blowing your whole vacation budget? When should you buy a season pass instead of a day ticket? Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss how to save on ski and snowboarding trips to help you plan a cheaper mountain getaway. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including Marriott’s more-flexible free night certificates, bigger Marriott welcome offers, rising fuel surcharges that could push airfare higher, and what the new Ikon Pass prices mean for next ski season.
Then, fellow travel Nerd Craig Joseph joins Meghan and Sally to discuss ski trip costs, with tips and tricks on choosing between season passes and day tickets, lowering rental, lodging and parking costs, and using points, hotel stays and credit card perks to offset the price of a mountain vacation. They also discuss whether skiing in Europe can actually cost less than skiing in the U.S., what non-skiers can do on a snow trip from tubing to ice skating, and what to look for in a credit card if you’re flying with skis or a snowboard.
Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Review: Free Night Award, Elite Status https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/marriott-bonvoy-boundless
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Review: Luxurious Benefits, Price Tag to Match https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/marriott-bonvoy-brilliant
Capital One Savor Review: Foodie-Focused Rewards, for No Annual Fee https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/capital-one-savor
Bilt Palladium Card: Rewards on Housing Are Almost Secondary https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/bilt-palladium
Capital One Venture X Review: A Steal of a Deal Among Premium Cards https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/capital-one-venture-x
Resources discussed in this episode:
The Best Travel Credit Card Welcome Offers Right Now https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/top-rewards-credit-card-offers
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Get listener-powered answers on lounges, Disney cards, cruises, and layovers.
Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle kick off the first listener questions episode of 2026 with quick travel headlines, including Wyndham Rewards Member Month, the Epic Pass going on sale for the 2026–27 season, and Rove Miles adding Japan Airlines as a transfer partner. They also swap recent travel wins, from Meghan’s David Copperfield weekend in Las Vegas to Sally’s courtside Chase Sapphire Reserve experience at the Chase Center — complete with a Steph Curry jersey and a hello from former Warrior Festus Ezeli — plus a nod to past “pinch me” perks like dining with Lin-Manuel Miranda.
Then they answer a wide range of travel questions from listeners. They dig into topics like whether Wyndham Diamond status can really land you a suite upgrade, how to pick the best Priority Pass lounge strategy at SFO, how to think through the cash back vs. points debate in a relationship, and how to decide if the Chase Sapphire Reserve is worth it compared with the Chase Sapphire Preferred. They also cover what to do with a day layover in Singapore (and when it’s smarter to stay at the airport), which cruise lines fit solo travelers who want concierge vibes without formal nights, what to know about Royal Caribbean cabin outlets, whether the new Disney Inspire Visa Card makes sense for one big trip (and what counts toward its credits), and why premium economy might be the underrated sweet spot on long-haul flights.
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: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card
Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards
World of Hyatt Card Review: Lavish Benefits, Reasonable Cost
5 Things to Know: Wyndham Rewards Earner Business Card
Disney Inspire Visa: A Whole New World of Generous Benefits
Disney Premier Visa: Missing the Magic
Disney Visa: Perks in the Park, but Not in Your Wallet
Resources discussed in this episode:
How to Get a Business Credit Card: Who Qualifies, What You Need to Apply
Can You Get a Business Credit Card Without a Business?
5 Things to Know: Wyndham Rewards Earner Business Card
The Complete Guide to Wyndham Rewards Elite Status
Priority Pass SFO: What You Need to Know
Inside the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge at SFO
Temporary SFO AmEx Centurion Lounge
What Credit Cards Can Get Me Into Priority Pass Lounges?
The Best Cruise Lines (includes the Norwegian Aqua)
How to Make the Most of Chase Sapphire Reserve
New Rove Card Promises Travel Rewards, No Credit History Needed
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Learn how to avoid common travel upsells that drain your budget, from cruise add-ons to sneaky foreign card charges.
In this video episode, hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle break down travel “noob traps” to help you spot pricey add-ons before you click “book.” But first, they cover the latest travel headlines, including Chase adding Wyndham as a new transfer partner, Skyscanner launching flight search inside ChatGPT, Kayak’s spring break airfare trends, and new airport lounge openings at LAX and Las Vegas. They also flag a NerdWallet story from Craig Joseph digging deeper into the Chase-to-Wyndham transfer news.
Then, they dive into the most common “noob traps” that can quietly inflate your trip total, including cruise specialty dining, attraction photo packages, room service sticker shock, early check-in fees, and dynamic currency conversion abroad. They also discuss when travel insurance add-ons can be worth it (and when they can disappoint), why timeshare presentations and pricey hotel activities can backfire, what to know about cell phone roaming charges, and how “convenience” offers can cost more than you expect.
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: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/chase-sapphire-reserve
American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/american-express-platinum
Resources discussed in this episode:
Chase Points Now Transfer to Wyndham, but Better Options Exist https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/news/chase-ultimate-rewards-adds-wyndham-rewards
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
JetBlue’s 25-for-25 sounded simple: fly to 25 airports. Hear what three finishers learned chasing 350,000 points.
Before delving into the JetBlue story, hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle break down the latest travel headlines, including big United MileagePlus changes that kick in April 2, 2026, Hyatt updates that could reshape what award nights cost, Alaska’s Atmos Rewards Global Getaways promotion, Spirit’s new Free Spirit® debit card, and major national parks changing some reservation requirements in summer 2026.
Then, Meghan talks with three guests who completed JetBlue’s 25 for 25 challenge, including Kathleen Wilson, Ben Kim, and Alyssa Mala, travel blogger at Do You Have Fly-Fi and co-host of the Blue Did It 25 for 25 community celebration. They dig into the real-world logistics of chasing 25 airports in six months, what made certain routes and tiny airports unexpectedly memorable, and how a group chat turned strangers into friends — right up to a snowstorm-hit meetup at JFK’s TWA Hotel.
Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:
United Explorer Review: Richer Rewards, Perks You’ll Actually Use
United Club Infinite Review: $695 Fee May Still Lure Lounge Lovers
United Gateway Card Review: A No-Annual-Fee Ticket to Airline Miles
World of Hyatt Card Review: Lavish Benefits, Reasonable Cost
Resources discussed in this episode:
Best United Airlines Credit Cards of March 2026
United Makes Major Changes to Miles Earning Rates
The Complete Guide to World of Hyatt: Points, Status & Strategy
The Guide to Atmos Rewards
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices - Laat meer zien
