Points Too Paradise

Episode Overview: One of the most common questions I get is, “Which hotel points program is the best: Marriott, Hyatt, or Hilton?” In today’s episode, I’m breaking it all down for you! I’ll walk you through the key differences between these three major hotel loyalty programs, including how their points work, the best ways to redeem them, and which program might be the best fit for your travel style and goals.By the end of this episode, you’ll have the clarity you need to start earning and redeeming hotel points like a pro!What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The pros and cons of Marriott Bonvoy, World of Hyatt, and Hilton Honors.How each program’s points system works—and which one gives you the most value.Which hotels are best for family trips, luxury stays, or budget-friendly getaways.My personal recommendations based on your travel goals (free nights, upgrades, or luxury experiences).How to decide which hotel loyalty program is worth your time and credit card points.Why You’ll Love This Episode: If you’ve ever felt stuck trying to figure out where to focus your points strategy, this episode will clear up all your questions. Whether you’re a beginner looking to book your first free hotel stay or a seasoned traveler deciding where to stay next, I’ll give you the insights you need to make the best choice for you and your family.Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Travel Points Academy – Learn to Book Free Stays with ConfidenceFree Travel Points 101 Guide: FREE GUIDE Connect & Take Action: 🎧 If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star review! 💬 Follow me on Instagram @pointstooparadise for daily travel points tips and hacks.

Episode Overview: Are you just getting started with credit card points and feeling overwhelmed? Or maybe you’re ready to dive in but unsure where to begin? In today’s episode, I’ll take you step-by-step through what I’d do if I were starting completely fresh—with no credit cards and no points. I’ll share exactly which cards I’d open first and the strategy I’d use to maximize points for free travel right from the start.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The foundational steps to take before opening your first credit card.Why your travel goals are key to picking the right cards.The credit cards I’d prioritize if I were starting over today.How to strategize earning points while maintaining a healthy credit score.Why This Episode Matters: Starting with credit card points can feel like navigating a maze. But trust me—it doesn’t have to be complicated. This episode gives you a clear path to follow so you can start earning points and booking your first free trip as soon as possible.Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Card Concierge: Travel Points Made Simple – 1:1 Coaching SessionTake Action: 🎧 Loved this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! 💌 Let’s connect! Follow me on Instagram @pointstooparadise for more travel hacking tips. ✈️ Ready to dive in? This episode is perfect for beginners and anyone looking for a fresh perspective on starting their travel points journey. Tune in and start turning your dream trips into reality!

Traveling with a toddler doesn’t have to be stressful! In this episode, I’m sharing our tried-and-true tips for flying with our 2-year-old. From keeping them entertained mid-air to what to bring, we’ll cover everything you need for a smoother journey. I’ll also dive into our favorite travel-friendly toys, the must-have items in our carry-on, and how we’ve taken advantage of the lap child rule for kids under 2 to save on airfare. Whether you’re planning a short domestic trip or an international adventure, this episode will help you feel more confident and prepared to travel with your little one!What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Our go-to travel toys and activities to keep your child entertained.What’s in our carry-on: essentials for toddler travel.How the lap child rule works and tips for utilizing it to save money.Strategies to minimize stress for both parents and toddlers while flying.Resources Mentioned:Free Call Wednesday December 4th: https://pointstooparadise.ck.page/5a0143b349Free Travel Points 101 Guide: https://pointstooparadise.kit.com/b04dc62874Travel Points Academy: Travel Points Academy | Points Too ParadiseConnect with Me:Follow me on Instagram @pointstooparadise for more travel tips.Got questions about traveling with kids? Send me a DM or email, I'm happy to help!

Is the Capital One Venture X the travel card missing from your wallet? In this episode, we’re diving deep into one of the most talked-about credit cards on the market and why it’s a must-have for savvy travelers. Whether you’re a seasoned points collector or just starting out, this card offers a ton of value—and I’m breaking it all down for you.Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:Key Benefits of the Venture X Card – From its annual travel credit to airport lounge access, we’re covering why this card stands out from the rest.Unique Redemption Opportunities – Learn how to use your Venture X points for everyday travel expenses like Disney tickets, theme parks, and even rental cars.How to Maximize the Annual Fee – Discover why the card’s perks more than make up for its cost, including free authorized user benefits.Why You Need This Card:75,000-point welcome bonus after meeting the minimum spend.$300 annual travel credit and unlimited 10x points on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel.Priority Pass and Capital One lounge access for a luxury airport experience.No foreign transaction fees—perfect for international trips.Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Capital One Venture X Card Disney tickets, Disneyland tickets, Disney Cruises 2025 Discount Packages | Undercover TouristFREE GUIDETravel Points Academy | Points Too ParadiseWant Help Building Your Credit Card Strategy? Book a 1:1 Card Concierge Session to get personalized advice on which card is right for you and how to make the most of your travel points.Join the Conversation: Have you used the Venture X for unique travel redemptions? DM me your stories or questions on Instagram.Don’t Forget: If this episode helped you, subscribe to the podcast and leave a review! Share it with a friend who’s ready to travel smarter with points.

Travel Points Made Simple: Travel Points Made Simple | Points Too ParadiseTravel Points Academy: Travel Points Academy | Points Too ParadiseTrave Tribe Membership: The Travel Tribe | Points Too Paradise

Episode Description: Ready to turn your dream of flying first class to Europe into a reality? In this episode, we’re diving into the strategies, tools, and insider tips you need to book luxurious first-class flights across the Atlantic using points and miles. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway to Paris or a bucket-list trip to Rome, we’ve got you covered!Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:Top Airlines for First Class Flights to Europe Search Engines to Simplify Your HuntHow to Use Your Points Efficiently Booking Secrets & Hacks Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Free Points 101 Guide: FREE GUIDEPointsYeah - The best all-in-one points travel planning(award search) site on earth and it's freeBook Travel with Points | Award Flight Search & Booking | point.meWant Personalized Help Booking Your First-Class Flight? Check out my 1:1 Points Planning Session to get expert advice tailored to your points balance, travel goals, and airline preferences.Join the Conversation: Do you have a favorite airline or a first-class experience you want to share? DM me on Instagram Don’t Forget: If you loved this episode, subscribe to the podcast and leave a review! It helps more travel enthusiasts find the tips they need to explore the world in style.

As the holiday season kicks into high gear, there's no better time to start working toward next year’s dream vacation! In this episode, we dive into how to use holiday spending strategically by opening the right travel credit card and building a points-earning strategy. From selecting the best card to match your travel goals to learning how to maximize each purchase, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to kickstart your journey towards free or low-cost travel in 2025.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Why the Holiday Season is Perfect for Opening a New Card – Find out why now is the ideal time to open a travel card, and how you can leverage holiday spending to hit bonus requirements and earn points quickly.How to Define Your Travel Goals – We’ll break down how to set clear travel goals to determine the best card and point-earning strategy for the destinations, airlines, and hotels you want next year.Building Your Credit Card Strategy – Discover which types of cards to consider based on your travel needs and how to sequence your card openings to build up points efficiently and maximize sign-up bonuses.Your Personalized Roadmap to Travel – Practical steps to ensure you’re building a strategy that works for you, so you can travel more and spend less in the new year.Whether you’re looking to travel internationally, hit up domestic hotspots, or just save big on your next family vacation, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you earn points over the holiday season and build your ideal travel plan! Tune in to get started on your 2025 travel dreams.Travel Tribe Membership: The Travel Tribe | Points Too Paradise

In this episode, we're diving into a recent adventure to Puerto Vallarta – all planned, booked, and upgraded using travel points! I’ll share every detail of how we made this family trip memorable while keeping our budget in check, from scoring the perfect flights and securing a luxurious room upgrade to finding local adventures the whole family enjoyed. Whether you're dreaming of a tropical getaway or looking to maximize your own travel rewards, you'll pick up tons of practical tips for making your next trip amazing without breaking the bank.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:How We Got There with Points – We’ll break down the exact travel cards and point systems we used to book our flights to Puerto Vallarta, complete with strategies on how to find the best routes and maximize your travel rewards.The All-Inclusive Resort Experience – We’ll share our experience staying at a beautiful all-inclusive resort, how we booked it on points, and the room upgrade that took our stay to a whole new level of comfort and style.Exploring Puerto Vallarta – From breathtaking beaches to local adventures, find out what we did as a family, the activities we recommend, and how you can plan these excursions using points or budget-friendly options.Tips for Family Travel – Traveling with a two-year-old? We’ve got you covered with tips and tricks to make the journey smooth and fun for little ones, plus how we planned activities that worked for the whole family.Your Guide to a Dream Puerto Vallarta Trip – Practical advice on planning a points-based trip to Puerto Vallarta, finding upgrades, and making the most of your rewards – without sacrificing comfort or experiences.Join us as we relive our Puerto Vallarta adventure and get inspired to plan your own!

Want to know how to score free room upgrades, welcome treats, and VIP perks at resorts without having elite hotel status? In this episode, I’m letting you in on a golden trick I use to make every stay extra special: a simple email to the hotel manager! I’ll break down exactly how I’ve used this approach to get suite upgrades, champagne, birthday surprises, special gifts for my daughter, and more—all by reaching out and asking.Tune in to hear my tips on what to say, when to send the email, and how to make a lasting impression so your next trip is unforgettable. This is one of the best travel tips to elevate your experience, and I’m excited to share it with you!Key Takeaways:How to craft the perfect email to request free upgrades, welcome gifts, and extra perks.The best time to reach out to the resort manager or guest services for maximum impact.Real-life examples of upgrades and amenities I’ve received, like suites, champagne, and special surprises.How to personalize your email and mention special occasions (like birthdays or anniversaries) to make your stay even more memorable.Resources Mentioned:Travel Tribe Membership: The Travel Tribe | Points Too Paradise (teachable.com)Travel Points Academy: Travel Points Academy | Points Too Paradise (teachable.com)Join the Conversation:Have you tried requesting upgrades and perks at hotels? Share your success stories or questions with me on Instagram @pointstooparadise—I’d love to hear about your experiences and celebrate your travel wins!If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with friends who love elevating their travel experiences too!

Dreaming of setting sail on a luxurious cruise without paying full price? In this episode, I’m diving deep into how you can use travel points to book cruises—yes, cruises! I’ll walk you through the best credit cards to earn points for cruising, which loyalty programs to focus on, and how to combine points and perks to enjoy your dream vacation at sea for a fraction of the cost.Key Takeaways:The best credit cards to earn points for cruise travel How to use flexible points from programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards or Amex Membership Rewards to book cruises.Resources Mentioned:Travel Tribe Membership: The Travel Tribe | Points Too Paradise (teachable.com)Capital One Venture: Capital One Venture Rewards Card | Travel FreelyJoin the Conversation:Have you ever booked a cruise using points? Share your tips or questions with me on Instagram @pointstooparadise—I’d love to hear about your experiences or help you get started!If you loved this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with anyone dreaming of their next vacation at sea!

In this episode, I sit down with Madison Gammons, a money mindset coach, to explore how shifting your financial mindset can open the door to debt-free travel. We dive deep into the importance of cultivating a healthy relationship with money, especially when it comes to using credit card points for travel, paying off debt, and building wealth along the way. If you've ever thought travel was out of reach because of financial constraints, this episode will change the way you think about money and adventure!Key Takeaways:The Power of a Money Mindset Shift: Madison explains how changing your perspective on money can unlock opportunities for both wealth-building and travel. Learn the connection between mindset and financial freedom.Debt-Free Travel Strategies: We discuss how to take dream vacations without going into debt, including using travel points effectively and managing your credit cards responsibly to fund your travels.Wealth vs. Scarcity Mindset: Madison walks us through how to break free from a scarcity mindset and adopt an abundance mentality that can lead to more wealth and more travel.Steps to Financial Empowerment: Madison shares practical tips on setting money goals, eliminating debt, and using tools like budgeting and strategic credit card usage to create more freedom in your life.Balancing Adventure & Financial Stability: Discover how you can enjoy frequent travels while still building a solid financial foundation for your future.Connect with Madison Gammons:Instagram: Madison Gammons | Money & Mindset Coach (@themadisonj) • Instagram photos and videosBusy Getting Better Podcast: Busy Getting Better Podcast Series - Apple PodcastsJoin Our Community: If you're ready to travel the world without breaking the bank, join our community! For just $27/month, you'll gain access to exclusive guides, monthly trainings, and a supportive group of like-minded travelers.Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! Your feedback helps us reach more people who want to travel the world on points.This episode is packed with mindset shifts and practical advice to help you travel smarter and live wealthier. Tune in and get ready to unlock a new level of financial freedom and adventure!

Ready to explore the great outdoors and save money doing it? In today’s episode, we’re diving into how to visit some of the most breathtaking national parks in the U.S. using credit card points! Whether you’re dreaming of seeing the towering cliffs of Yosemite, the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone, or the red rock canyons of Zion, I’ve got you covered. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:Free Resource: https://pointstooparadise.ck.page/66263402f7Connect with Megan on Instagram: Travel on Points | Points To Paradise | Megan Lanford (@pointstooparadise) • Instagram photos and videosTravel Points Academy: Travel Points Academy | Points Too Paradise (teachable.com)

Episode Description: In today’s episode, I’m diving into the essential steps you need to know to successfully fill out credit card applications—whether it’s for your personal use or your business. I’ll be sharing insider tips on how to navigate the application process smoothly, maximize your approval odds, and avoid common mistakes that could impact your chances of approval. Whether you're just starting your travel points journey or you’re ready to scale with business cards, this episode has got you covered!Key Takeaways:Why applying for both personal and business cards can be a game-changer for earning more travel points.How to fill out applications step-by-step, even if you’re just starting out or don’t think you qualify for a business card.Next Steps:Ready to maximize your points game? Learn how to earn and redeem travel points by joining The Travel Points Academy!Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe to the podcast and leave a review. Your feedback helps more people discover how they can travel using points!Connect with Me:Follow me on Instagram: Megan | Budget Travel | Using Credit Card Points To Travel (@pointstooparadise) • Instagram photos and videos

Ready to stay at a Marriott resort for 5 free nights? In this episode, I’m breaking down how you can take advantage of a current elevated offer on the Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card. This offer gives you 5 free night certificates when you meet the minimum spend, and I’ll show you exactly how to make the most of them.Whether you’re dreaming of a beachside getaway, a luxurious city escape, or a relaxing mountain retreat, Marriott has hundreds of properties worldwide where you can use these certificates. I'll also share tips on how to maximize your free nights for the most value—think upgrades, extending your stay, and making your points go even further.Key Takeaways:What makes the Marriott Bonvoy Business® AMEX card’s elevated offer so special and why it’s a must-grab right now.How to earn 5 free night certificates and meet the minimum spend to unlock them.Example destinations and properties where you can use your 5 free night certificates for an unforgettable vacation.Resources Mentioned:American Express Marriott Bonvoy Business Card | Travel FreelyMaxMyPoint - Maximize Hotel Point ValueTravel Points Collective | Points Too Paradise (teachable.com)Join the Conversation:Have you used free night certificates at a Marriott property before? Tell me about your experience or ask any questions on Instagram @pointstooparadiseIf this episode helped you understand how to get started with free nights at Marriott resorts, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with friends who want to travel for free too!

In this episode, we dive into what I like to call the gateway drug to traveling on points. If you’ve ever dreamed of taking luxurious vacations without the hefty price tag, this episode is for you! I’m breaking down how starting with just one credit card and booking your first vacation on points can be the start of an incredible addiction to travel points.I'll walk you through the proof of concept that once you see those points cover your flights, hotels, or upgrades for the first time, you'll be hooked. It’s how I got started, and trust me, once you see what’s possible, you’ll want to do it again and again. Get ready to take that first step toward making travel a regular (and practically free) part of your life!Key Takeaways:Why choosing the right first card is crucial to starting your travel points journey.How to choose which bank is best for youThe feeling of excitement and freedom when you see your first trip come together—flights, hotels, and more—without spending a dime.How this experience can act as proof that using credit card points is a sustainable way to travel.Why that first trip is just the beginning, and how it can lead you to become addicted to travel points.Tips on how to continue building your points strategy after your first success.Resources Mentioned:Travel Points Collective Waitlist: https://pointstooparadise.ck.page/93500d84daCapital One Venture Rewards Card | Travel FreelyAmerican Express Marriott Bonvoy Business Card | Travel FreelyJoin the Conversation:Have you booked your first trip on points yet? Share your experience with me on Instagram @pointstooparadise and let me know if you're hooked!Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if this episode helped you get started on your travel points journey. I can’t wait to hear about all the amazing trips you'll take!

In this episode, we're heading to the charming city of Charleston, South Carolina! Known for its historic streets, vibrant culinary scene, and Southern hospitality, Charleston is a must-visit destination. And guess what? You can experience it all using your credit card points! I’ll walk you through where to stay using points, the best spots to eat, and must-do activities that make Charleston so special. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family vacation, this guide will help you make the most of your points for an unforgettable trip to Charleston.Resources:Free Resource: https://pointstooparadise.ck.page/66263402f7Capital One Venture Card: Capital One Venture Rewards Card | Travel FreelyConnect with Megan on Instagram: Travel on Points | Points To Paradise | Megan Lanford (@pointstooparadise) • Instagram photos and videosTravel Points Academy: Travel Points Academy | Points Too Paradise (teachable.com)

Ever wonder how your pursuit of travel points might be impacting your credit score? In this episode, we're diving deep into the relationship between earning travel points and your credit score. We’ll break down the components that make up your credit score and how applying for new credit cards, managing balances, and maximizing rewards can influence it. Whether you’re a seasoned points collector or just getting started, this episode will help you understand the balance between boosting your travel game and maintaining a healthy credit score.What You’ll Learn:The key factors that make up your credit score and how they’re calculatedHow opening new credit cards to earn travel points can affect your credit scoreTips for managing your credit cards to maintain or even improve your credit scoreCommon misconceptions about credit scores and travel pointsActionable steps to ensure your credit score remains strong while maximizing travel rewardsLinks & Resources:Learn how to pick the right travel credit card for your goals with my free guide: https://pointstooparadise.ck.page/66263402f7ESCAPE 1:1 program Escape | Points Too Paradise (teachable.com)Connect with Megan on Instagram: Travel on Points | Points To Paradise | Megan Lanford (@pointstooparadise) • Instagram photos and videosBest Credit Card Offers: Best Offers for Points Too Paradise (travelfreely.com)

In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of how I helped one of my students inside my ESCAPE 1:1 program to plan and book her dream trip to Positano, Italy—using points! From opening the right credit card to strategically earning and redeeming points, I walk you through the entire process step-by-step. Whether you’re dreaming of the Amalfi Coast or any other destination, this episode is packed with actionable tips and strategies to turn those dreams into reality—without breaking the bank.What You’ll Learn:How to choose the right credit card for your travel goalsThe step-by-step process of earning points quickly and efficientlyStrategies for redeeming points for maximum value on flights and hotelsInsider tips on booking a luxurious Italian getaway without spending a dime on airfare or accommodationsReal-life success story: My student’s journey from dream to reality in PositanoLinks & Resources:Ready to plan your own dream trip? Learn more about my ESCAPE 1:1 program: points-too-paradise.teachable.com/p/escape3Get my free guide: https://pointstooparadise.ck.page/b04dc62874

In this episode, we're tackling the challenge of staying organized with your travel credit cards. Managing multiple cards, tracking due dates, and maximizing rewards can be overwhelming. But with the right tools and strategies, you can simplify the process and make the most of your travel points. We’ll introduce you to the Travel Freely app and other helpful tools like auto-pay and digital wallets that keep your credit card game on track. Whether you're just starting your journey or have an arsenal of cards, this episode will equip you with the best practices to stay organized and stress-free.Resources Mentioned:Travel Freely AppFree Training on Developing a Credit Card StrategyFollow Me On InstagramDon't Miss:[Special Offer] Join our "Travel Points Accelerator" program and learn how to maximize your travel rewards! points-too-paradise.teachable.com/p/travel-points-acceleratorSubscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the podcast and leave a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring you valuable content!

In this episode, we're diving into the world of airport lounges and how your travel credit cards can unlock these exclusive spaces. Whether you're a frequent flyer or just love the idea of a little extra comfort before your flight, airport lounges offer a range of amenities that can make your travel experience more enjoyable. From complimentary food and drinks to quiet workspaces and even showers, these lounges are a game-changer for travelers. We'll explore the types of lounges available, the benefits they offer, and most importantly, how you can gain access using your travel credit cards. Tune in to learn the tips and tricks for getting into lounges, even if you're flying economy, and discover how to make the most of your card benefits.In This Episode, We Cover:What Are Airport Lounges?Overview of different types of lounges: airline-specific, independent, and credit card-affiliated lounges.Benefits of Airport LoungesAmenities you can expect, including food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and more.How to Access Lounges with Travel Credit CardsA breakdown of the top credit cards that offer lounge access as a benefit.How to use the Priority Pass membership and other lounge networks.Understanding the different access levels: free access, guest passes, and day passes.Resources Mentioned:Capital One Venture X Card: Capital One Venture X | Travel FreelyAMEX Platinum: American Express Platinum Card (Personal) | Travel FreelyOur Free Guide to Earning Travel Points:https://pointstooparadise.ck.page/66263402f7Don't Miss:Sign up for our free masterclass, Travel Points Playbook (ck.page) and learn how to maximize your travel rewards for your next trip! Free travel conference https://lanford14--bougieinabackpack.thrivecart.com/bougie-virtual-travel-summit-august-2024/Join the Conversation: Have you used your travel credit card to access airport lounges? Share your experiences and tips with us on [social media link] or email us at [your email address].Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the podcast and leave a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring you valuable content!