The Upgraded Points Podcast

Japan is one of the most popular destinations in the world, but traveling there with a family can feel overwhelming and expensive. In this episode, Chris breaks down his recent family trip to Japan and exactly how it was booked using points and miles.We walk through the business class flights, 5-star hotel stays, and the real itinerary across Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. You’ll hear what worked well, what surprised us, and how planning ahead made a luxury-style trip possible without luxury prices.If you’ve ever wondered how families actually use points in real life, not just in theory, this episode shows what’s possible with the right strategy.Chapters:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 4501:01 New Hyatt Bonus Journeys Promo04:04 Japan Airlines Business Class 05:56 Waldorf Astoria Osaka10:04 St. Regis Osaka15:52 Getting from Osaka to Kyoto17:06 Hyatt Place Kyoto19:41 Kyoto activities22:32 Shinkansen Bullet Train to Tokyo23:32 Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea26:31 Conrad Tokyo28:00 Tokyo and Tips for Kids in Japan31:19 Park Hyatt Tokyo38:33 Delta Economy and American Airlines Premium Economy43:11 Listener Q&AHyatt Place Kyoto in Japan [In-depth Hotel Review]https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/hyatt-place-kyoto-review/Review of Hilton Tokyo Bay in Japan [Great Use of Hilton Aspire Resort Credit]https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/hilton-tokyo-bay-review/Behind the Hype: A Real Guest’s In-Depth Review of Conrad Tokyohttps://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/conrad-tokyo-review/✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com

Bilt 2.0 launched with three new credit cards and a brand-new currency called Bilt Cash, and the reaction was immediate and brutal. Even seasoned points and miles experts were confused by how the new system worked.In this episode, Chris and Katie break down the Bilt 2.0 rollout, explain how the new cards and Bilt Cash program actually function, and take a step back to look at the big picture. They cover what changed, what went wrong, what still works, and whether there are any bright spots worth paying attention to as the program evolves.If you’ve been wondering whether Bilt 2.0 is something to avoid entirely or if there’s real value hiding beneath the confusion, this episode gives you a clear, honest assessment without the hype.Chapters:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 4401:44 New Priority Pass+ app02:48 American Airlines Barclays Cards Transitioning to Citi05:05 Bilt 2.007:11 Bilt Blue card08:26 Bilt Obsidian Card10:22 Bilt Palladium Card12:15 Bilt 2.115:39 Bilt Cash20:03 Is Bilt Still Worth It?Bilt Overhauls Credit Card Lineup: Unlimited Earnings but With Some Caveatshttps://upgradedpoints.com/news/bilt-new-credit-card-details/Bilt Responds to Backlash, Adds Second Option for Earning Rewards on Housing Payments With No Feeshttps://upgradedpoints.com/news/bilt-responds-second-earning-option/Here Are the First Details of Redemption Options for Bilt Cashhttps://upgradedpoints.com/news/bilt-cash-redemption-options/I Just Got the Palladium Card: Here’s Why it Makes Sense for a Yearhttps://upgradedpoints.com/news/choosing-bilt-palladium-card/✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com

How many travel credit cards is too many? It’s one of the most common questions travelers ask, and the answer isn’t as simple as a number.In this episode, Chris and Katie break down how many travel credit cards actually make sense based on your travel goals, spending habits, and ability to stay organized. They talk through common fears around credit scores and annual fees, share signs you might have too many cards, and explain when opening another card can actually help your travel strategy.Whether you’re just getting started or already deep into points and miles, this episode will help you decide when to open your next card, when to pause, and when fewer cards might lead to better travel.Chapters:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 4300:57 Capital One Lounge Guest Access04:02 The #1 rule in Points and Miles8:25 Wallet Audit15:07 Retention Offers18:05 Duplicate CardsCapital One Lounge policy changes: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/capital-one-venture-x-lounge-access-changes/How to get credit card retention offers: https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/credit-card-retention-offers/How do you cancel or downgrade your credit card? https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/downgrading-canceling-credit-cards/Does opening a new credit card hurt your credit score? https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/does-new-credit-card-hurt-credit-score/✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com

You don’t need an $800+ annual fee to get real travel value.In this episode, Chris and Katie break down the best travel credit cards with annual fees under $100, and explain why some of these low-fee cards quietly outperform more expensive options. They cover which cards make the most sense for beginners, families, and points and miles hobbyists, plus how to use them alongside premium cards for maximum value.You’ll learn which under-$100 cards are worth keeping long term, which perks actually matter, and how to build a smart travel strategy without adding another big annual fee. If you’re trying to travel better while spending less, this episode is a must-listen.10 Best Credit Cards With Annual Fees Under $100 [2026]: https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/best-credit-cards-with-annual-fees-under-100/✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com📲 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@upgradedpointspod📲 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/📲 Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints📲 Follow us  on TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@upgradedpoints✉️ Upgraded Points Newsletter https://upgradedpoints.com/join-newsletter/

Transfer partners are the reason some travelers get $500 in value from their points while others get $5,000. In this episode, Chris and Katie break down what a transfer partner actually is, how it works, and why it’s the most important concept in points and miles.They explain the difference between bank points and airline and hotel programs, walk through real booking examples, and share the most common mistakes beginners make when transferring points.If points have ever felt confusing or underwhelming, this episode is the key to making them click.Chapters:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 4101:51 What Are Transferable Points?07:41 The Major Transferable Points Currencies14:01 Common Mistakes 20:41 Listener QuestionsLooking to Maximize Your Travel Points? Try Our Transfer Partner Tool! https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/transfer-partner-tool-calculator/✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.comhttps://youtu.be/lQSDx801Dts📲 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@upgradedpointspod📲 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/📲 Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints📲 Follow us  on TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@upgradedpoints✉️ Upgraded Points Newsletter https://upgradedpoints.com/join-newsletter/

Airport security is changing fast, and the new touchless TSA PreCheck rollout is making the lines faster and smoother—if you know where to find it. On top of that, Mobile Passport Control has quietly become one of the best free tools for speeding through immigration on international trips.In this episode, we break down what the new PreCheck tech actually does, where it’s live, and how it compares to CLEAR and traditional PreCheck lanes. We also walk through why Mobile Passport can sometimes beat Global Entry and how families can use it on arrival to skip some seriously long lines.If you want a smoother airport experience this year, this episode shows you the tools that really work.Chapters:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 4001:00 What is Mobile Passport Control?02:24 How to use Mobile Passport Control04:38 What is TSA PreCheck Touchless ID05:16 How to use TSA PreCheck Touchless ID8:45 Airport Fast Pass Quiz12:50 Listener QuestionThe Best Guide to Mobile Passport Control: Breeze Through the Airport: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/mobile-passport-app/TSA PreCheck Touchless ID Will Expand to 50 New Airports This Spring: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/tsa-precheck-touchless-id-expansion-2026/✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com📲 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@upgradedpointspod📲 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/📲 Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints📲 Follow us  on TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@upgradedpoints✉️ Upgraded Points Newsletter https://upgradedpoints.com/join-newsletter/

Points and miles have their own vocabulary, and if you’re new to the hobby, the slang alone can make everything feel harder than it needs to be. We’re kicking off 2026 by breaking down every term, acronym, and bit of jargon you’ll hear this year.We cover the basics like transferable points and award charts, then dig into the community slang you’ll see online—SUBs, DPs, P2s, sweet spots, HUCA, and more. We also explain the confusing terms that cause the most beginner mistakes and highlight the language you’ll hear more often in 2026 as programs evolve.By the end of this episode, you’ll understand the lingo, follow every conversation, and feel way more confident planning your next trip with points.Chapters:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3901:28 P2, Stacking, Churning, and 5/2405:34 SUB, DP, Positioning Flight, and Pop-up Jail09:18 Earn and Burn, Bonvoyed, and Gate Lice12:15 Raw Dogging, YMMV, and CPP16:03 Points and Miles Lingo Quiz18:35 Listener QuestionThe Ultimate Guide to Credit Card, Points & Miles Lingo [Full Glossary]: https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/credit-card-points-miles-lingo/✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com📲 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@upgradedpointspod📲 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/📲 Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints📲 Follow us  on TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@upgradedpoints✉️ Upgraded Points Newsletter https://upgradedpoints.com/join-newsletter/

A lot is changing in the points and miles world in 2026, and most travelers have no idea what’s coming. Today, we break down the updates that actually matter for anyone using points, miles, or premium credit cards.We’re covering new credit card perk changes, lounge access rules, and the loyalty program updates that could impact your strategy next year. You’ll learn what to use before it disappears, which benefits are still worth keeping, and how to avoid wasting money or missing out on value.Whether you’re trying to plan ahead or just don’t want any surprises, this episode will help you stay a step ahead of the 2026 travel shakeup.Listen now and get ready before the new rules kick in.Chapters:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3800:52 Chase Sapphire Reserve Changes for 202603:31 Capital One Venture X Changes for 202604:37 Southwest Airlines Changes for 202606:17 JetBlue Mosaic Changes for 202609:27 Hyatt Credit Card Changes for 202611:12 American Airlines Adding Free Wi-Fi in 202613:16 Wish List and Predictions for 202620:49 Listener Question✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com📲 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@upgradedpointspod📲 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/📲 Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints📲 Follow us  on TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@upgradedpoints✉️ Upgraded Points Newsletter https://upgradedpoints.com/join-newsletter/

European Christmas markets look magical in photos, and this week Katie proves they’re even better in real life. She just got back from Germany and Switzerland, and she’s breaking down the markets that were worth the trip, the ones that surprised her, and the exact route she followed.We walk through how she booked the whole thing with points, which redemptions delivered serious value, and how you can plan a similar December trip without overspending. We also cover timing tips, city-to-city transportation, what to expect in the crowds, and the food and handmade gifts you don’t want to miss.If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering Europe’s Christmas markets with a mug of glühwein in hand, this episode gives you everything you need to make it happen.Chapters: 00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3700:50 Hilton x Explore Journeys02:25 European Christmas Markets03:30 Lufthansa 747 Business Class07:47 Kimpton Frankfurt12:44 Christmas Markets in Frankfurt and Cologne14:01 Le Meridien Stuttgart16:15 Markets in Stuttgart, Esslingen, and Heidelberg20:17 Park Hyatt Zurich23:05 Zurich Markets25:35 Chris' Bad Dad Joke26:07 SWISS Business Class30:47 Listener Questions✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com📲 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@upgradedpointspod📲 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/📲 Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints📲 Follow us  on TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@upgradedpoints✉️ Upgraded Points Newsletter https://upgradedpoints.com/join-newsletter/

Airport lounges have become one of the biggest reasons travelers choose premium credit cards, and in this episode, Chris and Katie compare the three major players: Chase Sapphire Lounges, Capital One Lounges, and Amex Centurion Lounges.They break down access rules, locations, food and amenities, crowding, and which lounges offer the best real-world experience. Whether you want the best option for families, business travel, or occasional trips, you’ll learn which lounge program is worth prioritizing in 2025.Plus, Chris shares how he upgraded his American Airlines flight from Economy to Business class on the long overnight flight from New York (JFK) to Rio de Janeiro (GIG).Chapters:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3600:59 Chris’ American Airlines Business Class Upgrade to Rio03:35 Kimpton Social Password06:00 Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club11:25 Capital One Lounge18:33 American Express Centurion Lounge23:46 Our Top Picks28:08 Listener CommentsWant more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.comFollow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 

Join Katie as she shares her unforgettable trip to Thailand and Bangkok! From visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary to exploring the bustling streets of Bangkok, she walks us through her favorite experiences, hotel stays, local tips, and travel hacks. Whether you’re planning a points-based luxury trip or just looking for adventure inspiration, this episode has it all—from feeding rescued elephants to indulging in mango sticky rice, enjoying ATVs, and flying business class on a long-haul journey.Learn the best ways to maximize your time, budget, and comfort while traveling in Thailand!Chapters:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3500:58 Chris’ Chaotic JFK Travel Day06:52 Premium Economy to Thailand 12:52 JW Marriott Phuket18:46 Elephant Sanctuary and ATV Ride21:52 St. Regis Bangkok28:25 Bangkok Travel Trips32:30 Business Class from Bangkok to New York 36:45 Final ThoughtsWant more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.comFollow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 

Don’t let your credit card perks disappear before the clock strikes midnight on December 31! In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie break down the end-of-year credits, perks, and benefits you need to use before they expire — covering everything from Amex, Chase, and Capital One to Delta, Hilton, and more.Plus, they cover major updates from Hilton Honors, including the brand-new Diamond Reserve elite tier and big changes to Gold and Diamond qualification requirements. Then it’s on to your essential end-of-year checklist: hotel credits, airline incidentals, rideshare perks, restaurant credits, CLEAR memberships, Dell credits, StubHub deals, and the often-forgotten card benefits that can easily save you hundreds of dollars.Whether you’re swimming in premium cards or just trying to squeeze every dollar out of your travel perks, this episode walks you through everything resetting on January 1… and how to make sure none of it goes to waste.If you want to finish the year with maximum value (and minimum regret), this is the episode you need right now.Chapters:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3400:53 Hilton Diamond Reserve Elite Status03:08 Hilton Gold and Diamond Changes05:55 End of the Year Credit Card Checklist11:32 Rideshare Credits12:51 Resy Credits14:20 Airline Credits15:37 CLEAR Credits17:14 Unique Premium Card Credits21:57 Apply Before 2026?25:20 Listener Q&A2025 Annual Credit Card Statement Credits To Use Before the Year Ends: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/2025-annual-credit-card-statement-credits-to-use/ Why It Makes Sense To Apply for the Amex Platinum Before 2026: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/apply-amex-platinum-before-2026/Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.comFollow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 

In this episode of the Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie break down their all-time favorite travel gear—just in time for Black Friday. After years of testing backpacks, carry-ons, tech essentials, and outfit must-haves on real trips, they’re sharing only the items they truly can’t travel without. No random Amazon finds here—these picks are battle-tested.They also highlight some exclusive Black Friday discounts on top award travel tools, including Seats.aero, Roame, and CardPointers, with all the codes and links waiting in the show notes. From choosing the perfect backpack and staying organized with a dedicated travel wallet, to packing smarter with toiletry kits, versatile clothing, and go-to airport outfits, this episode is packed with practical tips you can use on your next trip. Whether you’re a carry-on-only traveler or gearing up for a long-haul flight, Chris and Katie share clever, experience-driven advice that makes traveling smoother, lighter, and a whole lot easier.If you like saving money and traveling smarter, this episode is for you. Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app, and send your questions to podcast@upgradedpoints.com00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3301:00 Black Friday Sales: Seats.aero, Roame, and CardPointers02:15 Favorite Travel Gear09:27 Carry-on Luggage Tips13:32 Travel Wallets17:10 Toiletry Bag21:54 Travel Wardrobe32:55 Packing Cubes36:00 Travel Tech We Love41:46 Black Friday Shopping Tips44:43 Listener Q&ABlack Friday Deals (Good through December 1, 2025)Save 30% on Seats.aero with code Friday2530:  upgradedpoints.com/go/SeatsAeroSave 40% on Roame with code UPGRADED40: upgradedpoints.com/go/RoameSave 50% on CardPointers:- upgradedpoints.com/go/CardPointersBackpacks and Weekender Bags:The Everywhere Bag - Away: upgradedpoints.com/go/AwayEverywhereTumi Voyageur Atlanta Backpack: upgradedpoints.com/go/SaksTumiVoyageurAtlantaBackpackLululemon City Essentials Duffle Bag 28L: upgradedpoints.com/go/lululemonCityEssentialsDuffleBag28LCarry-On LuggageTumi 19 Degree International Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-On: upgradedpoints.com/go/TumiInternationalCarryOnMacysROAM Carry-On: upgradedpoints.com/go/RoamLuggageCarryOnAway Carry-On: upgradedpoints.com/go/AwayCarryOnPocketMonos Carry-On: upgradedpoints.com/go/MonosCarryOnProTravel Accessories:TUMI Alpha Electronic Cord Pouch: upgradedpoints.com/go/SaksTUMICordPouchTUMI Small Madeline Cosmetic Case: upgradedpoints.com/go/TumiSmallMadelineCosmeticsCaseMonos Compressible Packing Cubes: upgradedpoints.com/go/MonosCompressiblePackingCubes4PackTUMI travel jewelry case: upgradedpoints.com/go/​​TumiJewelryCaseTUMI electronic cord pouch at Saks: upgradedpoints.com/go/SaksTUMICordPouchCredit card wallet: upgradedpoints.com/go/AmazonCreditCardWalletTravel WardrobeLululemon Be Calm Mid-Rise Wide-Leg Pants: upgradedpoints.com/go/LululemonBeCalmMidRisePantLululemon Dance Studio Mid-Rise Pants: upgradedpoints.com/go/lululemonDanceStudioMidRisePantLululemon Oversized Scuba Hoodie: upgradedpoints.com/go/lululemonScubaOversizedFullZipHoodieOn Cloud 6 shoes: upgradedpoints.com/go/OnCloud6ShoesMensInsider T-shirts: https://insiderstore.com/Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.comFollow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 

Are Citi ThankYou Points the most underrated currency in travel rewards? In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie break down why this overlooked points program might be the best-kept secret in the game. From transfer partners like American Airlines and Turkish to surprising hotel redemptions through Choice Privileges, they reveal how Citi quietly stacks up against Amex, Chase, and Capital One.Plus, we dive into some travel news as Wyndham and Vacasa are ending their partnerships, and share a promo code for AwardTool... one of our favorite new search tools! Whether you’re a beginner building your first points strategy or a seasoned traveler looking for fresh value, this episode shows where Citi shines... and where it still lags behind.00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3200:48 Wyndham x Vacasa Partnership Ending01:52 AwardTool Discount03:20 Are Citi ThankYou Points Underrated?06:40 Citi Credit Cards16:40 Pros and Cons 24:40 Listener Q&AUse code UPGRADED20 to save 20% off all AwardTool plans for new subscribersWant more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com.Follow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 

In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie dive into Citi’s newest addition to the American Airlines credit card lineup — the Citi® / AAdvantage® Globe Card. With a $350 annual fee, Admirals Club passes, and a tempting 90,000-mile welcome bonus, this mid-tier card is already making waves. But is it truly worth a spot in your wallet, or just filling the gap between Citi’s entry-level and premium AAdvantage cards?The hosts break down everything you need to know — from earning structures and benefits to elite status boosts and that tricky companion certificate fine print. Plus, they share fresh credit card news and travel promos, including Southwest’s elevated 85K bonus offers, new JetBlue transfer options with Wells Fargo, and valuable Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt promotions you don’t want to miss. Whether you’re chasing AAdvantage miles, eyeing a new signup bonus, or just want smarter ways to maximize your next trip, this episode is packed with insight and strategy.00:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3101:02 Wells Fargo New Transfer Partner01:50: Southwest Elevated Offers06:55 Hilton, Hyatt, & Marriott Bonus Points08:54 AAdvantage Globe Card18:04 AA Globe Card vs. The Rest31:41 Listener Q&AWant more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com.Follow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints New AAdvantage Globe Card: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/citi-aadvantage-globe-card-launches/American Airlines Credit Card Comparison:https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/best-american-airlines-credit-cards/AAdvantage Globe Card Turo Credit:https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/reviews/aadvantage-globe-card/turo-credit/AAdvantage Globe Card Splurge Credit:https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/reviews/aadvantage-globe-card/splurge-credit/Elevated 85k Welcome Offer on Southwest Cards:https://upgradedpoints.com/news/southwest-personal-cards-85k-sign-up-bonus/Southwest Debit Card:https://upgradedpoints.com/news/southwest-rapid-rewards-debit-card/

In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie dive into the ultimate showdown of premium travel credit cards — Amex, Chase, Citi, and Capital One. With four major cards and four hefty annual fees on the table, the hosts break down which one truly delivers the most value. From point-earning potential to exclusive perks, they compare every detail to help you decide which premium card deserves a spot in your wallet.Stay tuned as they share personal travel updates, unpack card benefits like lounge access and trip protection, and answer a listener’s burning question about maximizing rewards. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting to explore the world of points, this episode will help you make the most of your card strategy.00:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3001:05 Autocamp Cape Cod04:05 Dreams Bahia Mita10:54 Promo Codes: Seats.aero and Savewise11:37 Battle of the Premium Cards17:20 Earning points, Which Card is Best?24:44 Travel Benefits and Protections40:22 Listener QuestionsWant more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com.Follow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints Amex vs. Chase vs. Capital One vs. Citi: Premium Card Comparison: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/premium-travel-credit-card-comparison-2025/Save 20% on Savewise with promo code UPGRADEDPOINTS: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/savewise-promo-code/

Traveling doesn’t have to drain your wallet… if you know the right hacks! In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie break down the money-saving travel strategies that actually work. From booking hotels with breakfast included to getting a free eSIM and never paying for water at the airport again, these are the tips seasoned travelers swear by.They’ll also cover underrated tools that save hundreds on flights and hotels, how to get real value from credit card perks, and more. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a quick weekend getaway, these insider hacks will help you travel smarter, spend less, and make every trip feel like a win.00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 2900:48 Chase Sapphire Reserve changes02:32 Seats.aero promo code03:34 MaxMyPoint promo code05:08 Money Saving Travel Hacks33:26 Listener Q&AChase Unveils Major Overhaul of the Sapphire Reserve Card: New Perks, Higher Annual Fee: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/chase-overhauls-sapphire-reserve-card/Use this Seats.aero promo code to save 20% on an annual Pro subscription: UPGRADE3435 https://www.dpbolvw.net/click-8196909-17075279Use This MaxMyPoint Promo Code To Save 20% on an Annual Subscription: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/maxmypoint-promo-code/Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com.Follow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 

On this week’s episode, Chris and Katie dive into one of the best-kept secrets in luxury travel: Leaders Club from Leading Hotels of the World. With the Platinum Card® from American Express now offering complimentary Leaders Club Sterling elite status, cardholders can unlock perks at more than 400 independent luxury hotels in 80 countries — from historic palaces to private island retreats.They break down how this partnership works, what benefits you actually get (think upgrades, breakfast, and exclusive offers), and how to get the most value from Leaders Club stays — even when booking with points. You’ll also hear how Citi ThankYou Points can open the door to some surprisingly valuable redemptions.Plus, Katie shares her experience at La Casa de la Playa, one of Mexico’s most stunning Leading Hotels of the World properties, and the duo wraps up with practical advice for beginners building a strong points and miles foundation.Correction: In this episode, we mention that transferring Citi ThankYou Points to Leading Hotels of the World gives you a rate of 1,000 points = 140 Leaders Club points. However, if you have an eligible Citi card such as the Citi Strata Elite, Citi Strata Premier, Citi Prestige, or AT&T Access More, you actually get a better rate of 1,000 points = 200 Leaders Club points.00:00: The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 2801:15 Bilt adds Etihad02:10 Amex Equinox benefit03:55 Disney price increase06:03 Leading Hotels of the World overview07:40 Leaders Club Program10:45 Sterling Elite Status13:05 Earning and booking with points20:32 La Casa de la Playa 28:21 Listener Q&AWant more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com.Follow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 

Capital One just made a major move in the points and miles world by adding 3 new transfer partners — Japan Airlines, Qatar Airways Privilege Club, and Preferred Hotels & Resorts. Chris and Katie break down what this means for your travel redemptions, why now might be the perfect time to use your Capital One miles, and how these changes could make Capital One one of the most valuable travel programs today.They also share recent travel updates from São Paulo and Thailand, plus an amazing redemption story for an upcoming solar eclipse cruise in the Mediterranean, and answer some listener questions. 00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 2701:01 The Westin São Paulo02:50 The St. Regis Bangkok 06:46 Capital One’s new transfer partners14:15 The best program?18:19 Listener Q&AWant more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com.Follow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints Save 20% on Savewise: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/savewise-promo-code/

In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, we dive into the latest updates shaking up the  travel world, including the major refresh to the The Business Platinum Card from American Express. From new benefits to a bigger annual fee, we break down what these changes mean for cardholders and whether the updates make this card worth it for your business.We’ll also cover Chase’s updates to The Edit, how to save 20% on a Savewise Pro account, and answer your burning listener questions during our Q&A segment. Whether you’re a points pro or just getting started, this episode gives you practical insights to help you get more value  out of your rewards.00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 2601:00 Chase The Edit07:37 Savewise 20% off code10:42 Amex Business Platinum Refresh22:08 1 Major Issue25:17 Listener Q&AWant more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com.Follow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints