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Which U.S. airline loyalty program delivers the most value in 2026? In this roundtable discussion, the 10xTravel crew debates Alaska Airlines, United MileagePlus, and American AAdvantage to determine which program stands out for earning miles, redeeming points, elite status perks, and partner networks.   Travis, Emily, and Matt each defend one airline program, breaking down recent changes, hidden strengths, and real world tradeoffs travelers need to understand before committing their loyalty. This episode is designed to help you rethink how airline programs actually work in 2026 and whether chasing status still makes sense.   You’ll hear the crew's perspectives on: Which airline miles are easiest to earn in 2026 How redemption value really compares across Alaska, United, and American Whether elite status still delivers meaningful benefits How alliances and partners affect award availability Why some loyalty strategies may no longer be worth the effort   Tune in to learn which which program may work best for how you travel in 2026!   Timestamps: 0:00 Intro: Best Airline Loyalty Program for 2026 01:15 Roundtable Format & Airlines Chosen (Alaska, United, American) 04:10 Icebreaker: Best Airport Lounge Snacks 10:55 How We’re Judging Each Program 11:20 Earning Points: Alaska's Atmos Rewards 16:05 Alaska Credit Cards & “Choose Your Own Adventure” Earning 21:00 Earning Points: United MileagePlus 23:45 United Credit Cards & Star Alliance Earning 31:00 Earning Points: American Airlines AAdvantage 33:30 Earning & Redeeming Points: United & Star Alliance 38:40 United Devaluations & Partner Award Changes 42:55 Redeeming Points: American Airlines Sweet Spots 44:40 Alaska Stopovers & Unique Partner Value 48:10 Elite Status Evaluations 01:05:30 Which Program Is Best for the Average Traveler? 01:08:10 Final Votes & Why American Wins 01:11:00 Why Delta Was Not Included 01:14:30 Listener Spotlight: Family United Redemption to Aruba 01:17:20 Final Thoughts Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Join us at an upcoming Meetu...

Flight canceled? Missed connection? Weather delays or last-minute emergency travel? Travel doesn’t always go according to plan. But Travis, Emily, and Matt are here to show how points and miles can help! In this episode, the crew shares real stories of canceled flights, unexpected reroutes, and last-minute bookings, plus the strategies they use to stay calm and get where they need to go without paying outrageous cash prices. From travel insurance to considering point value in emergencies, they're covering everything you should know before you book your next trip. In the episode: 00:00 Introduction: Using Points & Miles During Travel Emergencies 02:00 Icebreaker: Marry, Date, Dump 12:30 Defining Travel Emergencies 14:45 Cancellations, Weather, Family and Medical Emergencies 15:30 Travis's Hurricane Evacuation Story 17:30 Point Value During Emergencies 18:30 Booking Backup Flights With Points 23:45 Credit Card Benefits Explained 26:00 Filing Travel Claims 28:00 Handling Travel Disruptions 35:15 Best programs for Last-Minute Award Bookings 36:45 Transferring Points: Tips & Mistakes 40:00 Credit Card Protections vs Travel Insurance 46:00 The Crew's Advice For When Things Go Wrong 49:00 Final Thoughts Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Join us at an upcoming Meetup  Credit Cards with Emergency Medical Coverage Credit Cards with Travel Insurance Credit Cards with Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance Credit Cards with Trip Delay Insurance Stay Conn...

2025 was anything but boring for points and miles. In this episode, the 10xTravel team reflects on the biggest wins, losses, and debates that dominated the 10xTravel Facebook Group this past year. From controversial airline changes to once-in-a-lifetime wins, the community had a lot to say - and not everyone agreed. You'll hear community takes on: Southwest’s major changes and why travelers are divided ANA ending its legendary Round the World award The actual state of points and miles What a 1 million point win actually means in real travel value How travelers are adjusting strategies for 2026 This episode is part reflection, part debate, and part reality check for anyone planning to use points and miles in 2026 and beyond. In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome 00:52 Year-End Reflections and Favorite Changes in Points and Miles 09:27 Crazy Things Done for Points and Miles 16:53 Is the Credit Card Points and Miles Game Dying? 26:47 Navigating Facebook Algorithms for Travel Deals 27:23 Maximizing Virgin Atlantic Miles 28:29 Planning a Round the World Trip 31:41 Winning a Million Points Giveaway 34:16 Strategies for Earning Hyatt Globalist Status 40:14 Southwest Airlines Policy Changes 48:08 Wrapping Up 2025 and Looking Ahead to 2026 Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Join us at an upcoming Meetup Stay Connected: Join our Community: 10xTravel Insiders Follow us on Instagram: @10xTravelblog Watch this and every episode of Takeoff on YouTube: @10xTravel Subscribe for more tips on travel, points, and miles! Don’t forget to hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode. Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the card links and other products that appear on this website are from companies which 10xTravel will earn an affiliate commission. 10xTravel is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner si...

Looking for the best travel gear for all your 2026 travel? Travis and Emily are joined by 10xTravel’s social media manager and resident packing expert, Lovan Edwards, to unpack the exact items they bring on every trip. The crew covers luggage picks, backpack setups, flight accessories, and more! From heated vests to Bluetooth-enabled sleep masks to ultra-efficient backpacks, they're breaking down what actually works after hundreds of flights, international trips, and long travel days. Whether you're a carry-on loyalist or an occasional checker, you’ll walk away with practical, tried-and-tested ideas to upgrade your next trip.  What the episode covers: Carry-on vs. checked bag strategies Why the right luggage style changes everything The backpack features that matter most when traveling ✈️ Essential in-flight comfort items The travel tech we depend on (chargers, mounts, cables, organizers)   Our favorite wellness and sleep tools for long flights  Space-saving items we wish we had earlier In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Icebreaker 01:20 Travel Gear Fails 05:53 Debate: Checked Bags vs. Carry-On 11:04 Luggage Preferences: Clamshell vs. Top Load 18:48 Backpack Essentials 30:39 Travel Must-Haves: Headphones and Chapstick 35:04 Heated Vest Demonstration 37:20 Travel Gear Essentials 39:29 Packing Tips and Tricks 40:53 Travel Hygiene and Health 45:03 Travel Organization Debate 55:08 Tech and Gadgets for Travel 01:07:11 Final Thoughts and Recommendations Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program  Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Join us at an upcoming Meetup Stay Connected: Join our Community: 10xTravel Insiders Follow us on Instagram: @10xTravelblog Watch this and every episode of Takeoff on YouTube: @10xTravel Subscribe for more tips on travel, points, and miles! Don’t forget to hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode. Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the card links and other products that appear on this...

In this special episode, the team sits down together in person as Bryce records his final conversation as CEO of 10xTravel. For the first time, you’ll hear the full origin story in one place, starting with the moment a college kid with no travel budget stumbled into a hobby that changed his life - and the lives of so many others! You'll hear about: • How one spring break search sparked the idea • The early days of the ebook and the first affiliate conversations • The ABC News moment that caused the first major traffic surge • The Money Magazine issue that nearly shut everything down • How the Facebook group and community meetups took off • The ways readers helped keep 10xTravel alive during 2020 • The moments that brought the current team together • What Bryce sees for the next era of the company This episode looks back at more than a decade of growth, mistakes, lucky breaks, and the community moments that shaped 10xTravel into what it is now. It also sets the stage for what comes next as Travis steps into his new role and the team prepares for the future. In this episode: 00:00 Introduction 02:13 Bryce's Farewell Announcement 03:29 Bryce's Journey into Points and Miles 10:16 The Birth of 10xTravel 13:03 ABC News Feature and Its Impact 18:36 Transition to Affiliate Marketing 23:03 The Team's Origin Stories 32:42 Unexpected Hotel Mishaps 33:30 Joining the 10x Team 34:26 Creative Job Applications 37:04 Launching the Podcast 39:01 Building a Community 43:41 The Rollercoaster Years 50:10 Surviving COVID Challenges 56:06 A New Chapter for 10xTravel 01:02:10 Final Reflections and Farewell Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Join us at an upcoming Meetup Stay Connected: Join our Community: 10xTravel Insiders Follow us on Instagram: @10xTravelblog Watch this and every episode of Takeoff on YouTube: @10xTravel Subscribe for more tips on travel, points, and miles! Don’t forget to hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode. Advertiser Disclos...

How do business owners actually use credit cards, points, and miles to get the most travel out of their spend? In this episode, the 10xTravel crew sits down with Neill Drake, owner of Antarctica Travel Group, to explore how business owners can use credit cards, strategic spend, and loyalty programs to unlock massive value inside their companies.   Neill shares how his agency grew from a small Facebook group to a thriving operation handling multimillion-dollar seasonal spend, and how he thinks about credit card choices, earning structures, partner programs, and the realities of using points as a business owner. You’ll hear how different industries can approach spend, why some companies benefit from flexibility over optimization, and how a business owner can use points to support team travel, unlock upgrades, and create meaningful perks inside the company.   The episode also touches on the 10xTravel group trip to Antarctica happening in February 2027, and Neill offers insights into what travelers should expect when planning the journey.   In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:04 Antarctica Adventures 07:20 The Origin of Antarctica Travel Group 12:55 Business Spend and Credit Card Strategies 18:20 Balancing Points and Business Needs 25:29 Maximizing Points and Employee Rewards 35:24 Points vs. Cash Back for Business Owners 39:12 Cash Back vs. Points: Finding the Balance 39:48 The Over-Optimization Phase 41:30 Travel Goals and Family Vacations 42:36 Flexibility in Travel Planning 43:59 Booking Strategies and Redemption Tips 48:01 Business Travel and Points Optimization 52:37 Common Mistakes and Tips for Business Owners 01:00:59 Excitement for the Antarctica Trip 01:11:22 The Unique Experience of Antarctica   Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today

Dreaming of Thailand’s golden temples, street food, and island sunsets, and want to get there using points and miles? In this episode, Bryce, Emily, and Matt share exactly how they did just that, from finding award flights to booking dream hotels on points.   You’ll learn: How Bryce’s original $20K Thailand redemption turned into 10xTravel’s viral success story Emily’s experience recreating that trip years later (and what’s changed since) The best airline programs for Thailand (ANA, Air Canada, Alaska, and more) Which hotel redemptions deliver the most luxury for the fewest points How to plan multi-stop routes and avoid 30-hour economy journeys Insider tips for Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and the southern islands What to know before you go: best months, routes, and realistic costs   Stay to the end for a listener spotlight featuring a honeymoon booked entirely with points, plus details on the next 10xTravel group trip to Thailand!   Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Host Greetings 00:44 Meetups and Community Stories 02:50 Thailand: A Popular Destination 03:36 Favorite Thailand References in Pop Culture 09:20 Planning Your Trip to Thailand 09:47 Best Airline Programs for Thailand 13:10 Air Canada and Other Airline Options 14:59 Alaska Airlines and Emirates 18:49 Flying Blue and Premium Cabin Considerations 25:05 Booking Tips for Thailand 25:54 Travel Experiences in Thailand 26:57 Hotel Recommendations in Thailand 35:13 Exploring Northern Thailand 38:35 Exploring Central and Southern Thailand 41:01 Listener Spotlight and Upcoming Trips 45:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today

Planning a family trip? In this episode, Bryce and Travis dive into the real challenges of traveling with kids, and how to use hotel loyalty programs to make it smoother (and cheaper). From Hyatt’s family plan rates to Hilton’s free breakfast perks, they reveal which brands actually deliver value for parents and which ones miss the mark.   You’ll learn how to: Maximize your hotel points for multi-room family stays Decide when to book suites vs. separate rooms Leverage Hilton’s family connecting room guarantee Find the best all-inclusive resorts that actually take points Stretch your points with smart Hilton and Hyatt strategies Balance hotel perks with real-world family needs   In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Banter 01:20 Traveling with Kids: Challenges and Strategies 02:20 Hotel Pools: Separate or Shared? 06:21 Best Hotel Programs for Family Perks 06:25 Hyatt: Top Choice for Family Travelers 17:15 Hilton: Reliable Breakfast and Family-Friendly Options 21:39 Marriott: Mixed Bag for Family Travel 24:44 IHG: Holiday Inn and Family Travel 28:27 All-Inclusive Resorts: Options and Tips 29:28 Family-Friendly Resort Recommendations 30:15 Exploring International DoubleTree Properties 31:23 All-Inclusive Options with Major Brands 31:43 Hyatt Ziva: Top Choice for Family Resorts 34:20 Booking Tips for Family Travelers 35:05 Hilton's Family Connecting Room Guarantee 39:23 Luxury Hotel Partners and Perks 44:28 Choosing Between Hotels and Airbnbs 46:46 Maximizing Points for Family Travel 51:58 Listener Win Stories and Final Thoughts   Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Join us at an...

You don’t have to step on a plane or check into a hotel to rack up serious points and miles. In this episode of Takeoff: A Points & Miles Podcast by 10xTravel, Bryce, Emily, and Matt break down the hidden value of airline and hotel shopping and dining portals, and how you can use them to turn everyday purchases into free travel.   The episode covers: ✅ How shopping portals like Rakuten & airline programs actually work ✅ Dining programs that give you bonus miles every time you eat out ✅ Smart stacking strategies with credit cards & seasonal promos ✅ Common mistakes that can cost you points (and how to avoid them) ✅ Real success stories, like turning Apple purchases into free flights   Wherever you are on your points and miles journey, this episode will help you earn more without spending more.   In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Icebreaker 00:58 Unusual Ways to Earn Points and Miles 05:34 Introduction to Shopping and Dining Portals 06:20 Exploring Shopping Portals 07:36 Exploring Dining Programs 09:33 Rakuten and Hybrid Programs 11:24 Maximizing Points with Shopping Portals 15:31 Tips for Using Shopping and Dining Portals 21:24 Seasonal Promotions and Advanced Strategies 25:39 Common Pitfalls in Using Shopping Portals 27:14 Maximizing Rewards with Dining Programs 28:02 General Points and Miles Strategies 31:18 Effort vs. Reward in Points and Miles 42:02 Listener Success Stories and Tips 44:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts     Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Join us at an upcoming Meetup

Want to fly to Asia in business or first class without breaking the bank? In this episode of Takeoff by 10xTravel, Bryce, Emily, Travis, and Matt reveal the exact strategies, airlines, and loyalty programs that unlock luxury premium cabin flights across the Pacific, all with points and miles.   The crew covers: ✈️ The best loyalty programs for booking premium cabins to Asia Insider tips on snagging rare award availability Which airlines offer the best first & business class products When to book for the highest chance of success ⚡ Pro tools and award booking services that save time (and frustration)   Whether you’re after ANA’s world-class service, JAL’s new first-class suites, or EVA Air’s Hello Kitty flight, this guide will help you turn points into unforgettable journeys.   In this episode: 0:00 Introduction 4:10 Why premium cabins to Asia are the holy grail 8:00 ANA via Virgin Atlantic (unicorn deal) 15:00 Cathay Pacific, JAL & EVA Air highlights 25:00 StarLux & emerging premium options 32:00 Singapore Airlines quirks & waitlisting 42:00 Availability trends + when to book 50:00 Best overall products & value redemptions 57:00 Listener win: first business class redemption 59:00 Wrap-up & resources   Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Join us at an upcoming Meetup Learn How To Search ANA Availability Master ANA Sweet Spot Awards

Tired of hearing about the same points and miles hot spots like Japan, Italy, and the Maldives? In this episode, Bryce, Emily, Travis, and Matt reveal the underrated destinations that should be on your radar, and how to get there with points and miles.   From Nicaragua’s volcano adventures to Belize’s reef diving, Valencia’s family-friendly beaches, and even wine country in South Australia, the crew shares the hidden gems that offer incredible experiences with better availability, fewer crowds, and excellent redemption value.   They'll take you through the best points and miles strategies to book these destinations, surprising hotel options in each spot, and pro tips for maximizing award flights, boutique hotels, and portal bookings. Tune in, and get ready for your next, unexpected adventure!   In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Reunion 01:02 Travis' European Adventures 02:30 Diving in Northern Ireland 04:42 Bryce's Chaotic Return from Europe 09:13 Underrated Destinations Overview 10:57 Travis' Pick: Nicaragua 25:16 Emily's Pick: Belize 37:56 Matt's Pick: Adelaide and Southern Australia 44:56 Bryce's Pick: Valencia, Spain 47:36 Travel Tips: Points, Miles, and Booking Strategies 56:22 Underrated Destinations: Hidden Gems Around the World 57:48 Honorable Mentions: More Hidden Treasures 01:00:57 Final Thoughts and Fun Banter 01:14:25 Wrapping Up   Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Join us at an upcoming Meetup Book ANA Business Class with Points and Miles

Dreaming of an African safari but think it’s out of reach? In this episode Bryce and Travis welcome back 10xTravel’s social media manager, Lovan Edwards, to share his recent safari adventure in Kenya and the role that points and miles played in the bookings!   In the episode, Lovan reveals: How he scored Emirates First Class to Nairobi on short notice What safari lodges really cost and how to book them affordably The unforgettable wildlife encounters in Masai Mara Insider tips on choosing safari operators and what’s included Which credit card points transfer best for African travel Tips on timing your trip around the Great Migration Practical advice on visas, vaccinations, tipping, travel insurance, and packing This is one of the most-requested topics from our listeners, and for good reason: a safari is one of the most unforgettable trips you can take. And with the right strategy, you can do it for a fraction of the usual cost.   In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome: Lovan 01:23 Today's Topic: Safaris on Points and Miles 02:56 Planning a Last-Minute Safari 08:32 Booking Flights with Points 19:38 Safari Experience in Kenya 23:31 Booking and Costs of a Safari 30:16 Wildlife Encounters and Game Drives 32:29 Elephant Mud Bathing and Lion Tracking 33:32 Private Game Drives Experience 35:05 Camp Accommodations and Safety 38:29 Dangerous Animals on Safari 39:47 Using Points for Safari Lodges 44:13 Visa and Health Requirements 46:20 Travel Insurance for Safari 49:11 Practical Travel Tips and Packing 53:24 Best Times for Safari and Great Migration 56:44 Lightning Round: Safari Myths and Facts 01:01:42 Final Thoughts and Recommendations   Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a me...

In this hilarious and honest follow-up to one of our most popular episodes, Bryce, Emily, and Travis tackle a brand-new batch of travel faux pas submitted by listeners and inspired by their own recent adventures.   From the fiery debate over kids in premium cabins to the eternal question of whether it's ever okay to go barefoot on a plane, the 10xTravel crew breaks down the weirdest, worst, and most relatable travel etiquette dilemmas out there.   You'll hear: Airplane seat etiquette Who really owns the overhead bin? Controversial takes on lounge hogs, gate lice, and tuna sandwiches Ethical gray zones in points & miles, including award booking tactics and status sharing Real confessions from the crew on their most questionable in-flight behaviors   Before you go, tell us: What’s YOUR biggest travel pet peeve? Drop a comment or leave us a review with your favorite (or most infuriating) travel faux pas!   In this episode: 00:00 Intro & pet peeves (including roundabouts) 04:50 Kids in business class 13:10 Bare feet on planes 20:55 Overhead bin wars & lounge space hoarders 30:40 Taking hotel amenities: classy or klepto? 36:00 Sharing elite status: smart or shady? 44:45 Booking multiple award flights: fair game or foul? 47:00 Friends & points 51:00 Gate lice, lounge to-go food, and taking plane selfies 57:00 Faux Pas Confession Time!     Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Join us at an upcoming Meetup Plan your family travel redemption strategy

Ever wondered what happens when you take a wild chance on a points and miles booking? In this fun, story-packed episode, Bryce, Emily, and Travis share the most unexpected wins they’ve had using miles — including last-minute upgrades, miracle customer service saves, and zero-cost first class flights that shouldn't have worked, but did.   From how Travis saved his honeymoon with one phone call to the Emirates upgrade trick Bryce used for his entire family, you'll be shocked at these successes. Plus, you'll hear how Emily's flexibility and mid-trip rebooking paid off!   Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, this episode proves that sometimes the best redemptions are the ones you didn’t plan.   In this episode: 00:00 Intro & Weekend Recaps 04:00 Why This Episode Is Different 05:00 Travis Saves His Honeymoon with One Bold Ask 23:00 Emily’s Mid-Trip Award Rebooking Win 30:00 Bryce Upgrades His Whole Family to First Class 38:00 The Virgin Atlantic Award Space “Magic Trick” 43:00 What Makes a Redemption Truly Surprising 48:00 Tips to Engineer Your Own Points Surprises   Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Join us at an upcoming Meetup How To Book Premium Economy Flights with Points and Miles Best Award Search Tools When Buying Miles Makes Sense (And Doesn’t)   Stay Connected: Join our Community: 10xTravel Insiders Follow us on Instagram: @10xTravelblog Wa...

Ever wonder what it’s like being married to a points & miles fanatic? In this special episode, Bryce hands the mic to the real MVPs: the P2s, or the partners of the 10xTravel crew. Get an honest, hilarious, and heartfelt look at what it’s really like to live with someone obsessed with airline redemptions, hotel upgrades, and stacking signup bonuses.   You’ll hear from: Ashley (Matt’s wife), who’s gone from extreme couponing to lay-flat luxury Miryea (Travis’s wife), whose Maldives honeymoon kickstarted a travel-filled decade Michael (Emily’s husband), who's more than happy to go where the points and miles take them Alexandra (Bryce’s wife), who might not love flying, but who loves the travel perks   They share the wildest redemptions, the awkward dinner party moments, how they actually feel about last-minute travel, and why trust (and maybe mild bribery) is key to surviving the points game together. For seasoned P1s and skeptical P2s, this episode is full of insightful travel takeaways to help you level up in points and miles!   In this episode: 00:00 Introduction to a Special Episode 01:34 Meet the P2s: Quick Introductions 05:56 First Encounters with Points and Miles 09:42 Skepticism and Trust in the Points Game 14:27 Learning the Ropes: P2 Experiences 33:26 Planning and Booking Strategies 43:14 Advice for New P2s 46:01 Financial Transparency in Points and Miles 46:52 Favorite Trips and Memorable Experiences 49:18 Traveling with Kids and Family Dynamics 55:21 Navigating Social Dynamics and Perceptions 01:19:21 P2 Power Moves and Contributions 01:28:27 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks   Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course   Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly)   My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place   Let us book your next award flight for you   Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program   Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card   10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today