Points Too Paradise

You hear me talk a lot about how I use points to travel, but today I wanted to do something different. I’m sharing the stories of four real women inside the Travel Points Academy so you can see what this looks like in real life.These aren’t influencers or professional travelers. They’re moms, business owners, and everyday women with families, busy lives, and normal schedules who decided to do travel differently.In this episode, you’ll hear:What each woman does for a livingTheir family size and lifestyleWhen they joined the Travel Points AcademyWhat their travel looked like before pointsWhat they’ve been able to book since learning how to use themThis episode is about showing you what’s possible when you stop guessing and start using a real strategy.In this episode, we talk about:How different lifestyles use points differentlyWhy you don’t need to be wealthy or travel full-time to use pointsHow long it actually takes to start seeing resultsThe kinds of trips real women are booking with pointsWhat changes when you finally understand how the system worksIf you’ve ever thought:“This probably only works for her”“My family is too big”“I don’t spend enough”“I started too late”These stories will show you that there is no one “type” of person who succeeds with points. There are just people who have a plan and people who don’t.Why I’m sharing thisI wanted you to hear voices besides mine. I want you to see how women with different incomes, families, and lifestyles are all using the same system to travel more without spending more.That’s what the Travel Points Academy is really about: not just teaching you which card to get, but giving you a way to turn your real life into real trips.Want to be one of these stories?If you’re ready to stop watching other people travel and start planning your own trips, you can join us inside Travel Points Academy.

We made it to episode 100 🎉 and I wanted to do something fun and personal to celebrate. So, I opened up my Instagram and let you ask me anything about travel points, credit cards, and the way I actually travel.In this episode, I’m answering some of the most common (and honest) questions I get, including:What card you should use for airport lounge access now that Capital One dropped free guestsWhat’s currently in my walletMy travel bucket listHow I personally decide which cards to keep, cancel, or upgrade and more!This episode is a mix of strategy, personal insight, and real-life travel talk so you can see how this all plays out beyond the spreadsheets and card comparisons.If listening to this made you think, “I have no idea what should be in my wallet,” I’ve got you.You can work with me inside:Travel Points Lounge for live coaching & personalized credit card recommendationsTravel Points Academy to learn the full systemOther Resources:Travel Freely AppBest Credit Card Offers

In today’s Destination Day episode, I’m taking you to sunny Fort Myers, Florida and sharing all about the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point.This is one of those properties that is small but has a lot to do. We’re talking lazy river, multiple pools, private island beach, boat shuttle, on-site water slides, golf, spa, and so many dining options. It’s the kind of place that normally costs hundreds of dollars per night, but can be booked for free!In this episode, I’m breaking down:Why Fort Myers is such an underrated Florida destinationAll you need to know about the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point How many points it typically costs per nightAnd how I would personally strategize booking this trip for a familyWant to learn how to take trips like this for almost free?Here are the exact ways I help women start traveling for less:✨ Vacations for Less Than $100 My beginner-friendly guide that shows you how to take your first nearly-free trip using travel points. Perfect if you’re brand new and want something simple and actionable.✨ The Lounge My monthly membership where you get access to trainings, resources, and live support to help you actually use your points and plan real trips.✨ Travel Points Academy My signature step-by-step program that teaches you how to pick the right cards, earn points fast, and book luxury trips for your family without wrecking your credit or budget.

Bilt just dropped a major overhaul to its credit card lineup and rewards program, and there’s a lot to unpack. In this episode we’re breaking down everything you need to know about Bilt 2.0, including the new card options launching February 7, 2026, changes to how you earn points on rent and mortgages, the new Bilt Cash system, and what this means for both new and existing cardholders.Whether you’re a current Bilt member, thinking about using Bilt to earn points on rent or mortgage, or just curious about how this impacts your travel credit card strategy, this episode will give you clarity.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhat Bilt 2.0 actually is and why it’s such a big change from the old Bilt card system. A rundown of the three new Bilt credit cards being introduced and who each card is designed for:Bilt Blue — no annual fee, everyday earnings + Bilt Cash rewards. Bilt Obsidian — mid-tier card with bonus categories and travel credits. Bilt Palladium — premium option with generous welcome bonus, hotel credits, travel perks, and status. How the new Bilt Cash reward currency works Things you need to watch out for — like how earning points on rent and mortgage now depends on Bilt Cash earned from everyday spend.Why This MattersBilt 2.0 isn’t just a refresh — it’s a complete overhaul of how the program works. Instead of automatically earning points on rent just for having the card, you now earn Bilt Cash on everyday purchases that unlocks points on your housing payments. It changes the math a lot, and it’s something every renter and homeowner thinking about rewards credit cards should understand before applying.Resources:Your First 150K Points GuideJoin the Travel Points Lounge MembershipFollow Megan over on IG

What if one credit card could cover five nights of hotel stays?In today’s episode, I’m breaking down the elevated offer on the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless card, which is currently offering 5 free night certificates when you spend $3,000 in the first 3 months.And no—this isn’t one of those offers you want to grab without a plan.In this episode, I cover: • What the 5 free night certificates actually are • How much they’re worth (and how people accidentally waste them) • Where you can use them for luxury stays • Real examples of trips you could book with this offer • The common mistakes I see people make with Marriott certificates • How to stack and stretch these nights for maximum valueI’ll also walk you through how to think strategically about these certificates—because five free nights can mean: • A luxury beach resort • A European city stay • A family-friendly vacation with zero hotel costs • Or multiple shorter trips if you plan it rightAnd here’s the key part most people miss: Getting the certificates is the easy part. Using them well is where people get stuck.That’s why I also share how women inside the Lounge get hands-on help using offers like this—so they don’t let certificates expire, book low-value stays, or feel overwhelmed trying to figure it out alone.Inside the Lounge, members can: • Ask questions anytime • Get help deciding where to use their free nights • See how others are booking real trips with points • Get support planning and booking their stays• Learn how to stack offers like this with other cards and pointsResources: Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit CardJoin us Inside the Membership

Have you ever visited a place that immediately makes you slow down, breathe deeper, and feel completely present? That’s exactly what Sedona, Arizona did for us—especially while staying at the stunning Enchantment Resort.In this Destination Day episode, I’m taking you inside one of the most magical red-rock destinations in the U.S. and sharing what it’s really like to stay at Enchantment, a luxury resort tucked into Boynton Canyon. From jaw-dropping views to peaceful desert energy, this trip was equal parts rest, adventure, and luxury—and yes, we used points to make it happen.Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a wellness-focused escape, or a family trip that still feels elevated, this episode will help you decide if Sedona (and Enchantment) belongs on your travel bucket list.In this episode, you’ll hear:What makes Enchantment Resort so special (location, vibes, and amenities)Who this resort is best for: couples, families, or solo travelersWhat we did in Sedona beyond the resort (easy adventures + relaxation)This episode is perfect if you love:Luxury resorts with nature viewsUnique U.S. destinations that feel otherworldlyWellness, hiking, and slow travelResources:Travel Points Academy – Learn my full step-by-step system for earning and using pointsBest Credit Card Offers Right Now- Take a look at all the card offers to find your next cardFollow Along on Instagram

Luxury hotels look incredible online… but when it comes to points, most people are left wondering: How many points do I really need to stay there?In this episode, I’m breaking down the real numbers behind luxury hotel stays on points — without the overwhelm. We’re talking actual ranges, real examples, and the biggest mistakes I see people make when trying to book elevated hotels with their points.If you’ve ever thought:“I probably don’t have enough points”“Luxury hotels must take millions of points”“I’ll just save my points for flights instead”This episode will completely change how you think about hotel redemptions.In this episode, you’ll learn:What “luxury” actually means in the world of points (and what it doesn’t)Why cash price and point price rarely tell the same storyHow many points luxury hotels typically cost per nightReal Hyatt luxury hotel examples and why Hyatt is a favorite for points usersReal Marriott luxury hotel examples — and when they make senseHow to book luxury hotels without hotel-specific pointsYou don’t need a million points — but you do need a plan. In this episode, I walk through realistic point ranges for weekend getaways, resort stays, and longer city trips so you can stop guessing and start planning intentionally.Why strategy matters more than your point balanceLuxury travel doesn’t come from randomly earning points — it comes from knowing which points to earn, when to earn them, and how to use them. I’ll show you how flexible points, hotel programs, and timing all work together to unlock high-end stays for far fewer points than most people expect.Want help planning your luxury hotel stay?If you’re ready to stop Googling and want personalized guidance, here are a few ways I can help:Elevated Escape – Personalized help choosing the right cards and points strategyBest Credit Card Offers- Grab the cards to get you the points needed for a luxury stayTravel Points Academy – Learn my full step-by-step system for earning and using pointsIf this episode helped you, be sure to save it, share it with a friend, and leave a review — it helps more women and families learn how to travel luxuriously without blowing their budget.

The AMEX Gold Card is one of the cards that I don't think gets talked about enough...In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how the AMEX Gold Card works, who it’s best for, and who should skip it. If you spend a lot on groceries and dining and dream of turning everyday purchases into luxury travel, this episode will help you decide if this card deserves a spot in your wallet.In this episode, you’ll learn:What the AMEX Gold Card really is (and what it’s not)How AMEX Membership Rewards points actually turn into free or luxury travelWhy this card is considered an earning powerhouse for groceries and diningHow to use AMEX points for flights and elevated travel experiencesThe truth about AMEX Gold credits — and whether they truly offset the annual feeWho the AMEX Gold Card is perfect for (especially families and everyday spenders)Who should not get this cardHow the AMEX Gold fits into a smart, long-term travel credit card strategyThe AMEX Gold Card can be incredibly powerful, but only when it’s used intentionally. I’ll walk you through how this card fits alongside other popular travel cards and why combining cards often unlocks better trips, better redemptions, and more flexibility.If you’ve ever wondered:“Is the AMEX Gold worth the annual fee?”“Can I really use grocery and dining points for luxury travel?”“Should I get the AMEX Gold or something else first?”This episode is for you.Want help deciding if the AMEX Gold Card is right for you?If you’re ready to stop guessing and want a personalized plan, here are a few ways I can help:Elevated Escape – One-on-one help choosing the right credit card and building your strategyCredit Card Offers-Top OffersTravel Points Academy – Learn the full system for earning and using points for free travel

Why Flexible Points Need to Be Your Strategy for 2026 (Real Trip Breakdown + How I Picked the Best Luxury Hotel Using Chase, Amex, Hyatt, Hilton & Marriott)If you want 2026 to be the year you finally take that luxury vacation without draining your bank account, this is the episode you need in your life. Today, I’m breaking down why flexible points are the MOST important strategy for travel in 2026 — especially if you want free flights, luxury hotel stays, and maximum redemption value.And to show you exactly why flexible points matter so much, I’m walking you through a real trip I just planned where I compared multiple luxury hotel options using points from different banks (Chase, Amex). Because here’s the truth: 👉 If you only collect airline miles or stay loyal to one hotel chain… you’re going to miss out on the BEST deals.Flexible points change everything.⭐ In This Episode, You’ll Learn:→ Why flexible points (like Chase UR, Amex MR & Capital One Miles) give you the biggest travel freedomWe’ll talk about how flexible programs allow you to choose the BEST redemption across multiple airlines and hotels — instead of being locked into one brand.→ Why flexible points ALWAYS outperform fixed-value rewardsI break down real numbers, real examples, and what these points can do that cash back simply can’t.→ How I planned a luxury trip by comparing multiple hotel options across different point currenciesThis is where it gets fun. I’ll walk you through:The exact resort options I looked atHow many points each one costWhich bank each option aligned withAnd how having multiple point pools saved me hundreds — sometimes thousands — of dollars.This story will show you EXACTLY why flexible points give you negotiation power, choice, and the freedom to book the best deal, not just the one option you’re stuck with.→ Why 2026 is the year flexible points matter more than everWe’re entering a new era of:Dynamic pricingMore transfer bonusesHigher travel costsIncreased redemption opportunitiesFlexible points give you the upper hand in all of it.✈️ Real-Life Trip Breakdown (The Part Listeners LOVE)I’ll explain:Which resort I almost bookedAnd how having access to multiple point currencies gave me control over the entire process.This is literally the strategy my clients use to save $10,000+ a year.🧠 Why This Matters for YouIf you’ve ever felt stuck because:Flights were too expensiveHyatt didn’t have availabilityMarriott wanted 80,000 points per nightCapital One’s portal pricing was too high…this episode is your permission slip to STOP locking yourself into one ecosystem.💼 Ready to Build Your 2026 Flexible-Points Strategy?If you want to build your first points system, earn 100,000+ points easily, or get help choosing the right cards for your 2026 travel goals… 👉 Join Travel Points Academy — this is EXACTLY what we do inside the program.See Best Credit Card Offers HERE

If you’ve ever wondered where to start with travel points… this is the episode for you. Today we’re doing a full deep dive on the Chase Sapphire Preferred — the #1 card I recommend to beginners, moms, families, small business owners, and anyone who wants to travel for (almost) free.This card is simple, powerful, beginner-friendly, and unlocks the fastest path to free flights and hotel stays — all with a low annual fee and perks that are actually useful.In this episode, we cover:✨ What You’ll Learn• Why the Chase Sapphire Preferred is the ultimate starter card (and why it outperforms most “premium” cards for everyday travelers)• How the sign-up bonus alone can unlock $1,000–$2,000 in free travel Flights, Hyatt stays, Disney trips, Hawaiian vacations — all possible with ONE bonus.• How to earn points daily without changing your lifestyle 3x dining, 2x travel, and how broad Chase’s travel category actually is.• The perks people don’t talk about enough:$50 annual hotel creditPrimary rental car insurance (huge money saver!)No foreign transaction feesTrip delay, trip cancellation, and baggage coverage25% boost when booking through Chase Travel10% points bonus every yearDoorDash DashPass subscriptionInstacart+/Instacart statement credits• Why Ultimate Rewards points are some of the highest-value points on the market• When to redeem in the travel portal vs when to transfer to Hyatt, United, Air Canada, Southwest & more✨ Why Everyone Needs This CardThis episode makes the case for WHY the Chase Sapphire Preferred is the best “foundation card” for:Families planning Disney or spring breakMoms wanting to save money but travel moreBeginners wanting one simple card that does it allSmall business owners wanting flexible, high-value pointsAnyone wanting free flights + free hotel nights ASAP✨ Links & ResourcesIf you’re ready to start using points the right way:👉 Join Travel Points Academy The step-by-step program to earn your first 100,000 points and book your first free trip. Perfect for beginners or anyone with a trip goal in mind.👉Best Credit Card Offers Want to grab this card or another one, here are the best offers right now👉 Free Mini Course Check out this free mini course to get you started with points today!

📝 Episode DescriptionIn today’s episode, I’m breaking down the best current credit card offers for earning travel points fast — perfect for beginners, business owners, or anyone wanting to jumpstart their next almost-free trip. I’ll share why these cards are hot right now, who they work best for, and how to know which one fits your travel goals.If you’ve been thinking about opening a new card to maximize points, this episode will help you choose the right one with confidence.💳 Cards Mentioned in This EpisodeCapital One Venture XCapital One Venture X BusinessChase Ink Business PreferredSouthwest Rapid Rewards PlusAmex Hilton Honors Aspire✨ In This Episode, You’ll LearnWhy these current offers are worth paying attention toHow to pick a card based on your travel goals, not hypeHow business owners can turn everyday expenses into major travel winsThe mindset behind choosing one strategic card instead of chasing every offer🔔 Best Credit Card Offers ListReady to Level Up?If you want step-by-step guidance choosing the right card and turning your spending into free family travel, check out Travel Points Academy — my signature program that helps you earn and redeem points with confidence.

This week’s episode is all about one thing: helping you dream bigger before my 5 Days of Black Friday Deals drop next week.I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing REAL student stories — moms, beginners, and busy women just like you — who learned how to use travel points and completely transformed how they vacation.These wins aren’t rare. They’re predictable. And next week, you’re going to have the chance to get the same tools, shortcuts, and support they did… for the only time this year.✅ Inside This Episode, You’ll Hear:✨ Real Travel Transformation Stories✨ The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything✨ Why These Successes Matter for YOU✨ A Sneak Peek at My 5 Days of Black Friday DealsEvery woman in these stories started:confusedoverwhelmedunsure which card to openor afraid to “do it wrong”And small steps led to massive wins.✅ If You’re Ready to Change How You Travel in 2026…Make sure you're checking your email next week. Each morning, Monday through Friday, I’m dropping a brand-new Black Friday deal — and Day 1 is the one you do NOT want to miss.Grab a Sneak Peak of Next Week's Offers

🎙️ Episode Description:If you pay rent or shop online, this episode is your new superpower. Today, Megan breaks down the HUGE recent shift in the travel points world: the BILT program paired with Rakuten.You’ll learn how earning points on rent, mortgage + points on almost every online purchase can turn into free flights, luxury hotels, Disney vacations, and more — without changing your budget.✅ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:What the BILT Rewards program is and why it’s the #1 card for rentersHow rent payments can translate into flights, Hyatt hotels, and luxury travelWhy the new Rakuten + BILT connection is a massive earning opportunityHow to stack points on rent AND all your online holiday shoppingHow this strategy can easily unlock free Hyatt nights, AA flights, and moreWhy this is the best time of year to maximize earning✅ Why This Matters:For the first time ever, you can combine:Points on rent + soon mortgagePoints on everyday online shoppingTransfer access to Hyatt, American Airlines, United, and premium partnersThis creates one of the fastest, easiest point-earning systems for beginners and advanced travelers.✅ Resources:Rakuten Sign Up LinkBILTBlack Friday Sneak PeakFree $100 Vacation Mini-Series

Think travel points only cover flights and hotels? Think again! In this episode, Megan breaks down all the creative ways you can use your points — from Disney park tickets to Airbnb stays, cruise ships, tours, and excursions — so you can plan your next dream trip for a fraction of the cost.You’ll learn insider tips on:🎢 How to use points for Disney tickets and other theme parks🏡 Booking Airbnb stays using credit card points (yes, it’s possible!)🚢 Redeeming points toward cruises and luxury voyages🏝️ Using points for tours, excursions, and experiences around the world✈️ And of course, the best strategies for flights and hotel redemptionsIf you’ve ever wondered just how far your points can take you — this episode will blow your mind!🔗 Resources Mentioned:Black Friday WaitlistFollow Megan on Instagram

If you’ve been thinking about opening a travel credit card, this is your sign — the holidays are hands-down the best time of year to do it!In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly why now is the perfect time to open a new card, how to use your holiday spending to hit minimum spend requirements without overspending, and which cards are currently offering elevated welcome bonuses so you can start earning free flights and luxury stays fast.You’ll learn:💳 Why your holiday shopping and travel make it easy to meet minimum spend requirements🚀 Which cards are offering elevated bonuses right now (and how to pick the one that fits your travel goals!)If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to start earning travel points — this is it. Don’t let another holiday season pass without using your spending to work for you.🔗 Resources Mentioned:Travel Points Academy — learn step-by-step how to earn and redeem points for luxury travelLuxury Vacations For $100 or Less Mini-Course— get this free course to walk you through all the basics of credit card pointsBest Credit Card Offers-Follow me on Instagram @pointstooparadise for daily tips on free travel

Get ready for a cozy mountain escape as we head to the Pacific Northwest! In this Destination Day episode, I’m taking you on a journey through two of Washington’s most charming spots — Leavenworth, the storybook Bavarian village tucked in the Cascades, and Suncadia Resort, a luxury mountain retreat perfect for families and couples alike.We’ll talk about the best ways to plan a Washington getaway using points, where to stay, what to eat, and the can’t-miss experiences that make this part of the state feel like something out of a snow globe in winter — and a nature lover’s paradise in summer.In this episode, you’ll learn:🏔️ How to get to Leavenworth and Suncadia using points (yes, even from across the country!)🏨 The best hotels and vacation rentals you can book on pointsWhether you’re craving Christmas magic, mountain views, or a relaxing spa weekend, Washington State has it all — and I’ll show you exactly how to make it happen without spending a fortune.✈️ Mentioned in this Episode:Travel Points Academy → Learn how to earn and redeem points for your next mountain getawayFree Workshop Thursday October 23rd

If you’ve ever wondered whether the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is really worth the annual fee — this episode is your go-to guide. We’re doing a full deep dive into one of the most talked-about premium travel credit cards on the market.In this episode, we’ll cover:💳 The best benefits ✈️ The $300 annual travel credit🧳 How to decide if this card is right for you (and when it’s not!)Whether you’re new to travel rewards or already deep into the points game, this episode will help you see exactly how the Chase Sapphire Reserve can level up your adventures — and when it’s worth the investment.🌴 Mentioned in this Episode:Chase Sapphire Reserve® CardCheat SheetTravel Points Lounge

The Capital One Venture X card has quickly become one of the most talked-about premium travel credit cards — and for good reason. With its generous rewards, easy-to-use perks, and simple redemption system, it’s often the first luxury card I recommend to travelers ready to take their points game to the next level.If you’ve been curious about adding a premium travel card to your wallet — or you already have the Venture X and want to make sure you’re getting every ounce of value — this episode will help you understand exactly how to use it like a pro.Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Grab the Capital One Venture XJoin the Travel Points Lounge

The American Express Platinum card is one of the most talked-about travel credit cards — but is it really worth the hefty annual fee? In this episode, I’m doing a deep dive into everything you need to know about the AMEX Platinum so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your wallet and your travel goals.Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode:💎 A breakdown of the AMEX Platinum’s benefits, from lounge access to statement credits✈️ How to maximize your points earning potential on everyday purchases🏨 The best sweet spots for redeeming AMEX Membership Rewards for flights and hotels🧳 Travel perks that make this card shine (hello, Centurion Lounge!)💳 Who this card is perfect for — and who might want to skip it⚖️ My honest take: when the annual fee is worth it, and when it’s notWhether you’re considering adding the AMEX Platinum to your wallet or just want to make sure you’re getting the most out of it, this episode will give you the clarity and strategy you need.Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Travel Freely App:Travel Freely Partner Home 3Card Pointers App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/cardpointers/id1472875808Join the Travel Points Lounge: Travel Points Lounge | Points Too Paradise

In this episode, I share how I booked Alila Ventana Big Sur—a luxury, all-inclusive Hyatt resort perched above California’s rugged coastline—using points. From sweeping redwood and ocean views to included meals, hikes, and wellness experiences, this stay was the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.You’ll hear:How I booked my stay with points and maximized valueWhat’s included (and what’s not) in the all-inclusive experienceTips to make the most of your Big Sur getawayIf you’ve ever dreamed of a luxury escape without the luxury price tag, this episode will inspire your next trip.Ways to learn how to book luxury vacations:Travel Points Lounge: Travel Points Lounge | Points Too ParadiseElevated Escape: Elevated Escape | Points Too Paradise