Takeoff: A Points and Miles Podcast by 10xTravel

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: Lovan01:23 Today's Topic: Safaris on Points and Miles02:56 Planning a Last-Minute Safari08:32 Booking Flights with Points19:38 Safari Experience in Kenya23:31 Booking and Costs of a Safari30:16 Wildlife Encounters and Game Drives32:29 Elephant Mud Bathing and Lion Tracking33:32 Private Game Drives Experience35:05 Camp Accommodations and Safety38:29 Dangerous Animals on Safari39:47 Using Points for Safari Lodges44:13 Visa and Health Requirements46:20 Travel Insurance for Safari49:11 Practical Travel Tips and Packing53:24 Best Times for Safari and Great Migration56:44 Lightning Round: Safari Myths and Facts01:01:42 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  

Welcome to the ultimate destination face-off for award travelers: Italy vs. Japan. In this episode, the 10xTravel team compares two of the most sought-after dream trips in the points and miles world. From premium flight redemptions and train travel to luxury hotels and authentic food experiences, which destination gives you more value?   Join Bryce, Travis, Emily, and Matt as they pit ravioli against ramen, bullet trains against cobblestone streets, and Park Hyatts against Amalfi coast villas. No fence-sitting allowed: in the end, you'll hear each team member casts their vote on which destination reigns supreme for 2025 points & miles travel.   In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Host Greetings 01:32 Episode Overview: Italy vs. Japan 02:20 Listener Engagement and Points & Miles Basics 03:09 Travel Predictions and Membership Program 03:55 Italy vs. Japan: Flights and Award Redemptions 12:02 Personal Experiences and Flight Options 28:02 In-Country Travel: Italy vs. Japan 36:10 Debating Train Travel in Japan vs. Italy 37:14 The Convenience of Public Transit 37:50 Overnight Ferries and Transportation Experiences 40:49 Comparing Hotel Options in Japan and Italy 41:52 Booking High-End Properties with Points 43:16 Challenges of Booking in Italy 44:32 The Value of Authentic Experiences 47:53 Skiing and Unique Stays in Japan 50:55 Experience Value: Italy vs. Japan 01:00:57 Final Verdict: Italy or Japan? 01:08:32 Wrap-Up and Final Thoughts     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  Plan a Points Redemption to Italy

Ever wonder what award travel pros actually book with their points and miles? In this behind-the-scenes episode, the 10xTravel team pulls back the curtain on their real travel plans, giving an inside look at the strategies and considerations behind their trips. From spring break in The Bahamas to a dive trip in Italy and Ireland, you’ll hear the exact routes, programs, challenges, and creative booking strategies our team is using. Plus, find out which airlines the crew absolutely avoids. This episode is packed with practical tips and booking insights that will help you think like a points & miles pro. In this episode:00:00 Introduction and Crew Greetings00:21 Weather Woes and Fun Facts02:10 Current Bookings and Travel Plans02:48 Points and Miles Basics Reminder03:51 Bryce's Spring Break 2026 Plans20:19 Emily's Upcoming Europe Trip31:45 Cheering for Your Success32:02 Travis's Upcoming Europe Trip34:01 Booking Flights and Accommodations35:30 Airport Celebrity Spotting37:53 Planning for Ireland and Italy42:14 Future Travel Plans and Dive Trips44:30 Matt's Flexible Travel Planning48:12 California Alila Tour55:12 The Thrill of Booking with Points55:12 The Thrill of Booking with Points01:00:46 Final Thoughts and Resources Links and Resources from this Episode:Take Our Free Points and Miles CourseOur Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly)My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member todayJoin us at an upcoming MeetupHow to Book Your First Flight with Points & MilesPartner Award Bookings: Everything You Need to KnowHow to Plan a Family Vacation Using Points and MilesMapping a Trip to Italy: How to Plan Your Points Redemption Stay Connected:Join our Community: 10xTravel InsidersFollow us on Instagram: @10xTravelblogWatch 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 bel...

Are points and miles worth less than they used to be—or are they just different? In this episode, Bryce is joined by Emily, Travis, and Matt to break down how the value of travel rewards has evolved in 2025. They unpack shifting airline award charts, hotel certificate struggles, and why dynamic pricing isn’t necessarily the end of the world.   Hear what the crew thinks about points and miles devaluation over the years, and catch their opinions on what's better today than in the past. Plus, learn how they are adjusting their points and miles strategies to account for these shifts in the industry.   Whether you’re new to points or a seasoned mile collector, this episode is packed with takeaways to help you earn smarter and redeem better in the current environment.   00:00 – Episode Introduction 02:00 – Are points worth less today? Personal takes 07:00 – Airlines: devaluations vs. new sweet spots 12:30 – Hotel certs & why they’re harder to use 17:00 – Dynamic pricing: pros, cons & weird examples 32:00 – Credit card bonuses & how inflation helped 41:00 – What we’ll look back on in 10 years 50:00 – Real talk: what changes your strategy today?   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 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 sites, such as CreditCards.com. The content in this video is accurate as of the posting date. Some of the offers mentioned may no longer be available.

What would you do with your points—book Emirates First Class for a one-time luxury experience or stretch them for two roundtrips in business class to Europe? In this special “Would You Rather?” episode, Bryce and Emily put common points and miles dilemmas to the test.   They debate the trade-offs every points and miles pro faces—quantity vs. quality, domestic weekend trips vs. international dream vacations, hotel perks vs. local experiences, and much more.   Whether you’re team “maximize value” or “maximize vibes,” this episode is packed with practical insights and a few hot takes that’ll make you rethink your next redemption!   00:00 Introduction and Game Setup 00:55 First 'Would You Rather' Scenario: Podcast Fame or Virality 01:50 Quick Notes and Recommendations 02:52 Travel Dilemmas: Flights Edition 10:29 Travel Dilemmas: Hotels Edition 19:13 Lifestyle and Redemption Strategies 24:32 Chasing Travel Deals 25:29 Places We Wouldn't Visit 27:07 Domestic vs. International Travel 29:46 Lightning Round: Travel Preferences 36:43 Would You Rather: Travel Scenarios 41:53 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up   Links and Resources from this Episode: How to Keep Your Points From Expiring 12 Common Beginner Points and Miles Mistakes How to Plan a Family Vacation Using Points & Miles Our Favorite Credit Card Combos Take Our Free Points and Miles Course Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today

It's time to turn up the heat! In this special hot takes episode, Bryce, Emily, and Travis are dishing out their most unfiltered opinions on points and miles travel, credit card strategies, and everything in between.   From questioning the true value of “free night” certificates to debating whether optimizing every point is really worth it, nothing is off-limits. You’ll hear where the crew agrees, where they clash, and where you might want to rethink your entire strategy.   This spicy episode will challenge your points and miles assumptions—and probably give you a good laugh along the way. Tune in, and let us know your own hot takes on YouTube or Instagram!   In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 01:48 Diving into Unconventional Takes 12:40 Category Spend Optimization Debate 23:53 Inconveniences in Points and Miles Travel 31:34 Travis's Hot Take on Point Hoarding 35:23 The Risks of Point Hoarding 40:54 Psychological Aspects of Point Hoarding 44:39 Bryce's Second Hot Take: Valuing Points and Miles 52:38 Emily's Second Hot Take: Free Night Certificates 56:55 Travis's Controversial Take on Flexible Pricing 01:02:39 Lightning Round of Hot Takes 01:04:07 Engaging with the Audience 01:04:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts     Links and Resources from this Episode: Top Five Credit Myths Debunked Best Cards for Bonus Categories April Through June 2025 Three Types of Points: Which One Should You Prioritize? Take Our Free Points and Miles Course Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place 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: 

Thinking about airport lounge access for your next trip, or wondering if it’s actually worth it? In this episode Bryce, Matt, Emily, and Travis share everything you need to know about airport lounges, from stand-out experiences (both good and bad) to how to gain lounge access on your next trip.   The team shares their best and worst lounge experiences across the globe, from exceptional lounge showers to disappointing food and less-than-desirable spaces. They also cover how to access airport lounges using points, elite status, or premium travel credit cards.   Plus, get a sneak peek at the brand new My 10x Lounge Finder tool, making it easier than ever to find the best lounge options for your trip!   In this episode: 00:00 – Welcome + travel plans 02:00 – What airport lounges are and why they matter 05:00 – Who gets access (and how YOU can too) 08:00 – Credit card perks and priority pass explained 13:00 – Best lounge experiences: Europe, Asia, Middle East 19:00 – Worst and most overrated lounges (let's be honest) 27:00 – How to maximize lounge perks like showers, dining & space 38:00 – New Lounge Finder tool walkthrough 45:00 – Tips for families, solo travelers, and road warriors   Links and Resources from this Episode: 7 Best Credit Cards for Lounge Access How to Get Access to Airport Lounges (With or Without a Premium Ticket) Check Out the New Lounge Finder Feature in My10x! 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

Have you taken flight with the American Airlines AAdvantage program yet? In this episode, Bryce is joined by Emily and Matt to unpack the program details—from earning and redeeming miles to status tiers and program quirks.   Earning AAdvantage miles can be tricky, so the crew is breaking down their thoughts on how to maximize the benefits of the program, including partner information to get the most of your miles. They're also sharing favorite sweet spots, clever redemption strategies, and a few laughs along the way (including a debate on how "AAdvantage" is pronounced).   Tune in to learn if American Airlines AAdvantage is for you, and how you can take advantage of this program today!   Figure out where to credit your flights: wheretocredit.com   00:00 Introduction and Hosts 00:07 Discussing American Airlines AAdvantage Program 00:19 Fun Banter and Personal Updates 02:21 Deep Dive into AAdvantage Program 07:24 Earning AAdvantage Miles 16:08 Redeeming AAdvantage Miles 24:36 Award Booking Tips and Strategies 28:07 Understanding Hold Policies 29:15 Sweet Spots in the AAdvantage Program 29:18 Qatar Airways QSuites 31:30 Flying to Japan with JAL 33:53 Traveling to Australia and Beyond 35:24 Etihad Airways Redemptions 37:20 Short-Haul Economy Sweet Spots 38:25 Caribbean and Mexico Routes 40:45 Flagship First Transcontinental 45:03 Off-Peak Economy Awards to Europe 46:58 Booking Tips and Avoiding Surcharges 50:36 Family Travel Considerations 53:04 Conclusion and Resources   Links and Resources from this Episode: American Airlines AAdvantage: Everything You Need to Know Which American Airlines Credit Card Is Best? American Airlines AAdvantage Award Charts Take our free points and miles course Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly)

When it comes to earning and redeeming points for travel, not all credit card rewards are created equal. In this episode, Bryce, Emily, and Travis break down the 3 main types of credit card points—bank transferable points, airline and hotel-specific points, and cashback—to help you optimize your points and miles strategy. From which types of points to prioritize based on travel goals to why flexible bank points often offer the best value, this episode will help you get clear on how to make the most of your credit cards. If you're looking to optimize your points and miles earning strategy, this episode is a must-listen! Protect Your Points: https://go.10xtravel.com/protectyourpoints In this episode:00:00 Welcome to Take Off: Meet the Hosts00:15 Behind the Scenes: Recording Realizations02:02 Introduction to Credit Card Points03:47 Deep Dive: Bank Transferable Points19:15 Understanding Airline and Hotel Points20:53 Flexible Points vs. Co-Branded Points23:07 Fun Analogies and Closing Thoughts25:37 Buffets and Travel Value26:07 Hotel Points Comparison27:52 Risks of Points Devaluation28:37 Bank Transferable Points vs. Hotel Points29:33 Introduction to Cashback and Fixed Value Points30:07 Cashback vs. Travel Points31:36 Cashback Card Strategies38:47 Business Spend and Cashback43:01 Personal Points Strategy50:41 Final Thoughts and Resources Links and Resources from this Episode:Three Types of Points: Which One Should You Prioritize?Cash Back or Points: How to Choose the Right Card for YouShould You Use Airline Cards To Pay For Flights?Take our free points and miles courseOur Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly)My10x: Manage your points and miles in one placeLet us book your next award flight for youUpgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel ProgramGet free, personalized advice on choosing your next card

Are you taking advantage of the Virgin Atlantic Flying Club yet? In this episode, Bryce, Emily, and Travis break down the program’s sweet spots and the incredible value it offers for points and miles enthusiasts. Listen in as the crew discusses everything from flying to London for just 6,000 points to booking business class flights to Japan or New Zealand at unbeatable rates. They also explore Virgin Atlantic’s recent program changes, how to use their partnerships to your benefit, and share real-life examples of trips that can be booked in 2025. Finally, you’ll learn why Virgin Atlantic is a must-know program for affordable family travel and once-in-a-lifetime trips. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting out in the points and miles space, Virgin Atlantic Flying Club should be on your radar. Tune in to this episode for tips to help you turn your points into unforgettable adventures with this program. In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Host Greetings00:41 Travel Plans and Antarctica Adventure02:18 Bucket List Travel Experiences04:50 Virgin Atlantic Travel Club Overview13:05 Earning Virgin Points18:23 Redeeming Virgin Points25:16 Changes to Virgin Atlantic Program30:22 Maximizing Virgin Atlantic Points30:36 Award Seat Availability and Elite Status Perks31:39 Economy and Premium Economy Redemptions39:34 Sweet Spots for Virgin Atlantic Redemptions39:41 Partner Airlines and Award Charts54:15 Tips for Booking with Virgin Atlantic58:38 Conclusion and Additional Resources Links and Resources from this Episode: Virgin Atlantic Flying Club: Your Ultimate Guide Virgin Atlantic Flying Club Award Charts The Complete Guide to Virgin Atlantic Companion Seats Take our free points and miles courseOur Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly)My10x: Manage your points and miles in one placeLet us book your next award flight for youUpgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel ProgramGet free, personalized advice on choosing your next card10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Stay Connected:Join our Community: 10xTravel InsidersFollow us on Instagram: @10xTravelblogWatch this and every episode of Takeoff on YouTube: @10xTravel Subscribe for more tips on trav...

Get ready to track your points and miles redemptions like never before! In this episode, Matt joins Bryce and Emily to introduce the My10x Redemption Tracker, the new tool he developed to help travelers keep track of how they've used their points and miles. In the episode, the crew dives into the innovative features of the new Redemption Tracker and guides listeners through the functionality of the tracker, which revolutionizes how travelers can organize and assess their trips with ease. The discussion includes detailed personal examples from Bryce, Matt, and Emily, showcasing how they maximize their points and miles for incredible travel experiences. Tune in to learn more about how to efficiently manage your travel plans and share your own redemption stories with the My10x Redemption Tracker! Enter the Redemption Tracker Giveaway! In this episode: 00:00 Welcome and Announcements01:12 Crew Banter and Catching Up02:00 Introducing the Redemption Tracker05:33 How the Redemption Tracker Works13:08 User Feedback and Future Plans26:52 Analyzing Card Usage and Points Redemption27:31 Real-Life Redemption Examples: Emily's Australia Trip33:56 Bryce's Family Trip to Portugal37:33 Matt's Hawaiian Adventure45:34 Introducing the Redemption Tracker Tool46:03 Giveaway and How to Participate47:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Links and Resources from this Episode:Take our free points and miles courseOur Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly)My10x: Manage your points and miles in one placeLet us book your next award flight for youUpgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel ProgramGet free, personalized advice on choosing your next card10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today   Check out the Redemption Tracker in action:Emily's Trip: https://my.10xtravel.com/trip/shared/24502290-af3d-49fa-8102-13c20bb823d5Bryce's Trip: https://my.10xtravel.com/trip/shared/f5649fa1-0768-4837-b576-af004c94d41bMatt's Trip: https://my.10xtravel.com/trip/shared/acc39391-d23e-4575-85e4-886ecd7530ab   Stay Connected:Join our Community: 10xTravel InsidersFollow us on Instagram: @10xTravelblogWatch this and every episode of Takeoff on YouTub...