Takeoff is a podcast that will teach you how to save money and travel better. Join Travis, Emily, and Matt from 10xTravel as they teach you the fundamentals of points & miles and dive into the latest strategies, deals, and news in the industry. If you want to travel more (and better) without spending more money, this show is for you.
In this episode we cover: points and miles for beginners, how to use credit card points for travel, award travel explained, maximizing transfer bonuses, airline transfer partners, business class on points, economy award redemptions, repositioning flights, how to book flights with points, Virgin Atlantic Flying Club, British Airways Avios, Iberia Avios off-peak, Avianca LifeMiles, Air France Flying Blue, Aeroplan, Aeromexico, Wyndham Rewards hotel points, Hilton points transfer, how far 100,000 points goes, business class to Italy on points, cheap flights to Europe with miles, Costa Rica on points, Spain on points, and points and miles trip planning. Join My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place https://10xtravel.com/my10x/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=sn&utm_campaign=Episode_82&utm_content= From relaxing on Spain's southern coast to planning a couples getaway in Costa Rica and breaking down recent business class bookings to Italy, this conversation is packed with practical ideas you can apply to your own award travel planning. Whether you're new to points and miles or looking to get more value from your existing balances, you'll walk away from this episode with a better understanding of how experienced travelers approach award bookings. Original Episodes From This Episode: Ep. 76 - 100K Points Challenge: Plan Trips for Solo, Couples & Families https://10xtravel.com/podcast/100k-points-challenge/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=sn&utm_campaign=Episode_82&utm_content= Ep. 72 - How to Fly Business Class to Italy Using Points and Miles https://10xtravel.com/podcast/fly-business-class-to-italy-with-points/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=sn&utm_campaign=Episode_82&utm_content= Ep. 41 - 2024 in Review: Points Wins, Mistakes, and 2025 Goals https://10xtravel.com/podcast/points-and-miles-resolutions-2025/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=sn&utm_campaign=Episode_82&utm_content= Ep. 70 - Last-Minute Family Travel with Points: Ryan’s Real-World Strategies https://10xtravel.com/podcast/last-minute-family-travel-with-points/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=sn&utm_campaign=Episode_82&utm_content= 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.
Looking for smarter ways to earn and use travel rewards? In this episode, the 10xTravel team is sharing some of our favorite points and miles strategies to help you get more value from every point you earn. Join My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today From choosing the right credit card for your spending, to overlooked earning opportunities and advanced booking techniques, this episode is packed with practical strategies that can help you travel farther while spending less. If you're just getting started on your points and miles journey or you're looking to sharpen your award travel skills, this is a must-listen! Timestamps: 00:00 Points and Miles Strategies 00:47 Types of Credit Card Earning 17:36 Shopping Portals & Dining Programs 31:23 Travel Points Emergency Fund 38:23 Repositioning Flights Explained 47:10 10x+ New Tools Original Episodes From This Episode: Ep. 47: Maximizing Credit Card Points: The 3 Types You Need to Know Ep. 61: How Dining & Shopping Portals Can Boost Your Travel Rewards Fast Ep. 68: Travel Emergencies: How Points & Miles Can Save the Day Ep. 74: Are Repositioning Flights Worth It? Risks, Rewards, and Real Stories Ep. 77: The New 10xTravel+: Award Alerts, Tools & Community Sign Up for Rakuten and Earn Membership Rewards or Cash Back from Shopping 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.
Where should you travel next with points and miles? In this compilation episode, we're bringing together some of the best destination recommendations from past 10xTravel episodes to help you plan your next award trip. Join My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today From luxury resorts in the Bahamas to affordable adventures in Indonesia and Thailand, African safaris in Kenya, wine country in Australia, island hopping in Greece, and classic favorites like Italy and Japan, the 10xTravel team is highlighting destinations that offer outstanding value and tons of fun for points travelers. Featured destinations include: Indonesia Thailand The Bahamas Belize Kenya Paros, Greece Adelaide, Australia Italy Japan And more... If you're deciding where to use your points next, this episode is full of ideas that can help you maximize every redemption. Timestamps: 00:00 Destinations for Points Travel 00:50 Great Value: Indonesia, The Bahamas, and Thailand 04:54 Adelaide, Australia: Wine Country & More 11:37 Booking Lovan's Kenyan Safari 17:24 Belize: An Underrated Destination 24:20 Visiting Paros, Greece on Points & Miles 33:33 Italy vs. Japan for New & Experienced Travelers Original Episodes From This Episode: Ep 42: 2024 Best of Travel: Awards for Airlines, Loyalty Programs, and Hotels Ep 54: Destination Showdown: Italy vs. Japan for Points & Miles Travelers Ep 58: How to Book an African Safari with Points & Miles featuring 10xTravel’s Lovan Edwards Ep 59: Underrated Travel Destinations You Can Book With Points & Miles Ep 71: Warm Weather Destinations You Can Book With Points 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...
Some of our favorite trips nearly never happened! This episode is exposing the 10xTravel team's biggest travel close calls, near misses, and last-minute saves. Join My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today From a honeymoon flight that was canceled just weeks before departure to weather disruptions, repositioning flight risks, missed opportunities, and last-minute award booking victories, these stories highlight the realities of points and miles travel and what it takes to recover when things don't go according to plan. Tune in and get ready to learn some valuable lessons on flexibility, backup plans, and staying calm when travel chaos strikes. Original Episodes From This Episode: Episode 41: 2024 in Review: Points Wins, Mistakes, and 2025 Goals Episode 56: Wild Award Wins: Our Most Unexpected Points & Miles Successes Episode 59: Underrated Travel Destinations You Can Book With Points & Miles Episode 68: Travel Emergencies: How Points & Miles Can Save the Day Episode 70: Last-Minute Family Travel with Points: Ryan’s Real-World Strategies Episode 74: Are Repositioning Flights Worth It? Risks, Rewards, and Real Stories 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.
In this special episode, we’re revisiting some of our best conversations and segments focused on family travel with points and miles. Join My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today From booking award flights for a family of five to hotel strategies, travel planning tips, and surviving long-haul flights with kids, this episode brings together practical advice and real-world experiences from multiple past episodes into one packed resource for traveling families. This episode covers: ~ Booking award flights for families ~ Best hotel strategies for parents traveling with kids ~ Points & miles programs that work best for families ~ International travel with children ~ Last-minute trip planning ~ Flying with toddlers, kids, and larger families If you want to travel more as a family while spending less, this episode is packed with helpful insights and proven strategies from experienced travelers and points and miles experts. Tune in to take your family travel further! Original Episodes From This Episode: Episode 40: Making the Most of Family Travel with Points & Miles Episode 62: Family Travel Tips: Best Hotel Loyalty Programs for Parents Episode 70: Last-Minute Family Travel with Points: Ryan's Real-World Strategies Episode 76: 100K Points Challenge: Plan Trips for Solo, Couples, and Families 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.
We rebuilt 10xTravel+ from the ground up, and now we're sharing everything you need to know before you join! Join My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today In this episode, the 10xTravel team is pulling back the curtain on the brand-new 10xTravel+, explaining why they decided to redesign the experience around the biggest pain points travelers face today. From missing valuable award space to forgetting monthly card credits, Travis, Matt, and Emily break down the tools, features, and systems built to help travelers maximize every point with less stress and decision fatigue. You’ll hear about: New award alert systems including Unicorn Alerts and weekly roundups A benefits tracker designed to stop unused credits from expiring A “best card by category” tool for everyday spending Automated redemption tracking through email forwarding The new private community experience and live trainings Why the team intentionally kept pricing accessible If you’re looking for an easier way to organize your points strategy, maximize card benefits, and discover better award flights faster, this episode will show you why 10xTravel+ might be exactly what you need! 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 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today 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.
How far can 100,000 points really go? In this episode, the 10xTravel crew put this question to the test by planning three completely different trips using the same points budget: One for a solo traveler, one for a couple, and one for a family of four. And the results might surprise you! Join My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Listen as Travis, Matt, and Emily break down a European solo trip built on budget-friendly award flights, a couple’s getaway that balances cost and experience, and a family vacation that proves points can still work at scale. This is not about luxury first class flights or glamorous stays at impressive resorts, but instead about showing what is actually possible when you make smart decisions with limited points. 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 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today 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.
Are all-inclusive resorts actually the best way to use your points? In this episode, Travis, Emily, and Matt break down everything you need to know about booking all-inclusive resorts with points and miles. Join My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today From Hyatt’s massive all-inclusive portfolio to underrated options with Wyndham, they're diving into the best programs, pricing strategies, and the hidden details most travelers overlook. All-inclusive resorts promise simplicity, but not everything is always included. Knowing how these bookings really work can be the difference between an incredible deal and a disappointing redemption. If you want to maximize your points, reduce out-of-pocket costs, and avoid common mistakes, this episode walks you through exactly how to do it. What you’ll learn: Best hotel programs for all-inclusive resorts (Hyatt, Marriott, Hilton, IHG, Wyndham) How many points you actually need and what affects pricing The pros and cons of all-inclusive redemptions Hidden fees and limitations to watch out for When to use travel portals instead of transferring points Family booking pitfalls and occupancy rules What elite status does (and doesn’t) get you How to decide if all-inclusive is right for your travel style If you’ve been thinking about booking an all-inclusive resort with points, start here before you transfer anything. 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 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Hyatt's All-Inclusive Properties IHG's All-Inclusive Resorts Hilton's All-Inclusive Resorts All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. 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 networ...
Repositioning flights can unlock massive points savings, but they can also derail your entire trip if you’re not careful. In this episode, Travis, Emily, and Matt break down one of the most powerful (and misunderstood) strategies in points and miles. From near-miss travel disasters to smart ways to protect your itinerary, you’ll learn when repositioning flights are worth it and when they’re not. Join My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place If you’ve ever struggled to find award availability from your home airport or wondered how travelers consistently score better redemptions, this episode will open your eyes to the game changing strategy you'll be eager to try! Tune in to hear real-world close calls, how to avoid getting stranded, and the simple adjustments that can make the difference between a smooth trip and an airport nightmare. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro + What We’re Covering 00:45 What Is a Repositioning Flight? 02:00 Real Travel Stories + Close Calls 06:30 When Repositioning Goes Wrong 10:00 Why This Strategy Works (Big Savings + Access) 13:00 Best Airports + Where to Reposition 16:30 Advanced Strategies (International + Hidden Routes) 20:00 Biggest Risks You Need to Know 23:30 How to Reduce Risk (Key Rules) 27:30 Same-Day vs Overnight Repositioning 31:30 Hotel + Airport Strategy Tips 35:00 Common Mistakes to Avoid 38:30 Pro Tips (Standby, Adding Legs, Flexibility) 42:00 Final Takeaways: Is It Worth It? 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 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today 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.
Hyatt just devalued its points system, and it could impact your next trip more than you think. In this episode, Travis, Emily, and Matt break down the 2026 loyalty program shakeup affecting World of Hyatt and United MileagePlus. They're getting into specific program shifts and what it actually means for your points strategy. Join My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place From Hyatt’s move toward dynamic-style pricing to United doubling down on rewarding cardholders, this episode uncovers what’s changing, what hurts, and what smart travelers should be doing right now. If you’ve been saving points for a dream redemption, you’ll want to hear this before you book anything. The episode covers: What Hyatt’s new 5-tier pricing system really means Why this feels like dynamic pricing (even if they say it’s not) Which redemptions could cost significantly more soon United’s new strategy for cardholders and elite members How award availability and pricing could shift The biggest risks to your current points strategy What to do before these changes take effect Timestamps: 00:00 Intro to Program Changes 06:00 Hyatt Changes Explained 20:00 Real Impact on Redemptions 37:00 United Updates Breakdown 52:00 Strategy Shifts Moving Forward Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course https://10xtravel.com/free-tools/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=sn&utm_campaign=Episode_73&utm_content= New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast https://10xtravel.com/new-here/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=sn&utm_campaign=Episode_73&utm_content= 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today https://10xtravel.com/10xtravel-plus/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=sn&utm_campaign=Episode_73&utm_content= 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.
Dreaming about sipping espresso in Milan, exploring the lakes of Northern Italy, or wandering the historic streets of Rome without paying thousands for airfare? In this episode, Travis is joined by Matt and Emily to break down some of the best ways to fly business class to Italy using points and miles. From nonstop routes to creative partner bookings, they explore multiple strategies that can help travelers reach Italy in comfort without paying business class cash prices. Join My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place You will hear about airline alliances, sweet spots across different loyalty programs, and unique routing ideas that can open up more award availability. If flights are the biggest hurdle in planning a European trip, this conversation will help you understand how to approach your search and uncover opportunities you might have missed. Programs and redemption examples discussed: Flying Blue business class to Europe starting around 60,000 points Avianca Lifemiles business class awards around 63,000 miles Virgin Atlantic partner awards around 75,000 miles Alaska Airlines awards around 55,000 miles Delta One via partner programs for significantly fewer miles than booking direct If Italy is on your travel wish list, this episode will help you start building the strategy to get there using points. Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome 00:40 Olympics Curling Chat 03:52 Italy Business Class Setup 10:26 Why Italy Is Worth It 16:18 Flight Options Overview 19:33 Repositioning Stories 20:40 United and Flying Blue Deals 24:48 Air Canada Cautions 25:05 Avoid Overpaying Segments 25:31 Reposition East vs West 26:55 Emirates Fifth Freedom 28:47 Delta One via Flying Blue 30:03 More Programs to Check 30:52 Lifemiles and Ethiopian Routes 32:57 Virgin Atlantic and Alaska Deals 36:47 Booking Timing and Fees 43:35 Cash Fares from Montreal 46:54 Final Takeaways Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course https://10xtravel.com/free-tools/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=sn&utm_campaign=Episode_72&utm_content= New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast https://10xtravel.com/new-here/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=sn&utm_campaign=Episode_72&utm_content= 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today https://10xtravel.com/10xtravel-plus/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=sn&utm_campaign=Episode_72&utm_content= How to Plan Your Points Redemption to Italy https://10xtravel.com/mapping-points-redemption-to-italy/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=sn&utm_campaign=Episode_72&utm_content=
Ready to escape the cold and head to somewhere with sunshine? In this episode, Travis, Emily, and Matt reveal their favorite warm weather destinations you can book using points and miles, getting into the details of travel to Mexico, Greece, Costa Rica and more. Join My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Whether you're looking for a quick weekend getaway or planning a bigger international trip, this episode covers destinations that are both aspirational and surprisingly accessible - and all can done with points! This episode will give you ideas you can actually use for your next tropical getaway. Before you book, don’t forget to log your redemptions inside the free 10X Travel redemption tracker so you can keep everything organized! Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome: Warm-Weather Trips You Can Book With Points 04:53 Why Costa Rica: Easy Flights + Best Airline Points Plays 11:02 Costa Rica Hotels on Points: Hyatt, Marriott, Hilton & IHG Options 12:47 High-End Redemptions & Resorts (Andaz, Ritz Reserve, Waldorf) 25:25 Costa Rica Trip Planning Tips 27:29 Paros, Greece: Getting There on Points 32:24 Getting to the Greek islands: Aegean Awards vs. Paying Cash 32:59 Visiting Paros: Hotels, Transportation, and Day Trips 36:59 Mexico: The Ultimate Quick Getaway 39:10 Points & Airline Options to Mexico 42:25 Cabo San Lucas, Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende, & Riviera Maya/Cancun 01:01:16 Wrap-up: Tools & Award Booking Help 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 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Let us book your next award flight for you Everything You Need To Know About Award Booking How to Select Seats on Partner Award Bookings 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.
Does family travel with points really require planning years in advance? In this episode of Takeoff , Travis and Emily sit down with Ryan Fernandez, a longtime 10xTravel reader and mom who proves that last-minute family travel on points is not only possible, but actually practical! Join My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place In the episode, Ryan shares how she books premium cabin flights for the whole family, pivots plans when trips fall apart, and travels with kids despite tight school schedules and limited availability. From spontaneous award bookings to real-world travel mishaps and insurance wins, this conversation breaks down how families can use points with flexibility instead of stress. This episode is a must-listen to any family traveler who's interested in the points game! You'll learn: • How Ryan plans trips around school calendars and sports schedules • Why booking last minute can actually reduce stress • How flexible points make family travel easier • When portals make sense versus transferring points • How to handle last-minute cancellations and pivots • Why convenience often beats “perfect” redemptions • The mindset shift families need to travel more often Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Icebreaker 03:57 Planning Family Travel with Points 06:49 Last-Minute Travel Strategies 15:37 Handling Travel Mishaps 23:35 Travel Wins and Memorable Trips 25:25 Repositioning and Travel Tips 27:38 Practical Family Travel Tips 29:26 Travel Baseball and Hotel Stays 30:33 Traveling with Kids: Before and After 37:21 Surprising Family-Friendly Destinations 40:02 Planning Future Trips 43:26 Navigating Hotels with Family 45:05 Final Thoughts on Family Travel with Points and Miles Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course https://10xtravel.com/free-tools/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=sn&utm_campaign=Episode_70&utm_content= New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast https://10xtravel.com/new-here/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=sn&utm_campaign=Episode_70&utm_content= 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today https://10xtravel.com/10xtravel-plus/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=sn&utm_campaign=Episode_70&utm_content= 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.
Which U.S. airline loyalty program delivers the most value in 2026? In this roundtable discussion, the 10xTravel crew debates Alaska Airlines, United MileagePlus, and American AAdvantage to determine which program stands out for earning miles, redeeming points, elite status perks, and partner networks. Travis, Emily, and Matt each defend one airline program, breaking down recent changes, hidden strengths, and real world tradeoffs travelers need to understand before committing their loyalty. This episode is designed to help you rethink how airline programs actually work in 2026 and whether chasing status still makes sense. You’ll hear the crew's perspectives on: Which airline miles are easiest to earn in 2026 How redemption value really compares across Alaska, United, and American Whether elite status still delivers meaningful benefits How alliances and partners affect award availability Why some loyalty strategies may no longer be worth the effort Tune in to learn which which program may work best for how you travel in 2026! Timestamps: 0:00 Intro: Best Airline Loyalty Program for 2026 01:15 Roundtable Format & Airlines Chosen (Alaska, United, American) 04:10 Icebreaker: Best Airport Lounge Snacks 10:55 How We’re Judging Each Program 11:20 Earning Points: Alaska's Atmos Rewards 16:05 Alaska Credit Cards & “Choose Your Own Adventure” Earning 21:00 Earning Points: United MileagePlus 23:45 United Credit Cards & Star Alliance Earning 31:00 Earning Points: American Airlines AAdvantage 33:30 Earning & Redeeming Points: United & Star Alliance 38:40 United Devaluations & Partner Award Changes 42:55 Redeeming Points: American Airlines Sweet Spots 44:40 Alaska Stopovers & Unique Partner Value 48:10 Elite Status Evaluations 01:05:30 Which Program Is Best for the Average Traveler? 01:08:10 Final Votes & Why American Wins 01:11:00 Why Delta Was Not Included 01:14:30 Listener Spotlight: Family United Redemption to Aruba 01:17:20 Final Thoughts Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Join us at an upcoming Meetu...
Flight canceled? Missed connection? Weather delays or last-minute emergency travel? Travel doesn’t always go according to plan. But Travis, Emily, and Matt are here to show how points and miles can help! In this episode, the crew shares real stories of canceled flights, unexpected reroutes, and last-minute bookings, plus the strategies they use to stay calm and get where they need to go without paying outrageous cash prices. From travel insurance to considering point value in emergencies, they're covering everything you should know before you book your next trip. In the episode: 00:00 Introduction: Using Points & Miles During Travel Emergencies 02:00 Icebreaker: Marry, Date, Dump 12:30 Defining Travel Emergencies 14:45 Cancellations, Weather, Family and Medical Emergencies 15:30 Travis's Hurricane Evacuation Story 17:30 Point Value During Emergencies 18:30 Booking Backup Flights With Points 23:45 Credit Card Benefits Explained 26:00 Filing Travel Claims 28:00 Handling Travel Disruptions 35:15 Best programs for Last-Minute Award Bookings 36:45 Transferring Points: Tips & Mistakes 40:00 Credit Card Protections vs Travel Insurance 46:00 The Crew's Advice For When Things Go Wrong 49:00 Final Thoughts Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Join us at an upcoming Meetup Credit Cards with Emergency Medical Coverage Credit Cards with Travel Insurance Credit Cards with Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance Credit Cards with Trip Delay Insurance Stay Conn...
2025 was anything but boring for points and miles. In this episode, the 10xTravel team reflects on the biggest wins, losses, and debates that dominated the 10xTravel Facebook Group this past year. From controversial airline changes to once-in-a-lifetime wins, the community had a lot to say - and not everyone agreed. You'll hear community takes on: Southwest’s major changes and why travelers are divided ANA ending its legendary Round the World award The actual state of points and miles What a 1 million point win actually means in real travel value How travelers are adjusting strategies for 2026 This episode is part reflection, part debate, and part reality check for anyone planning to use points and miles in 2026 and beyond. In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome 00:52 Year-End Reflections and Favorite Changes in Points and Miles 09:27 Crazy Things Done for Points and Miles 16:53 Is the Credit Card Points and Miles Game Dying? 26:47 Navigating Facebook Algorithms for Travel Deals 27:23 Maximizing Virgin Atlantic Miles 28:29 Planning a Round the World Trip 31:41 Winning a Million Points Giveaway 34:16 Strategies for Earning Hyatt Globalist Status 40:14 Southwest Airlines Policy Changes 48:08 Wrapping Up 2025 and Looking Ahead to 2026 Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Join us at an upcoming Meetup Stay Connected: Join our Community: 10xTravel Insiders Follow us on Instagram: @10xTravelblog Watch this and every episode of Takeoff on YouTube: @10xTravel Subscribe for more tips on travel, points, and miles! Don’t forget to hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode. Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the card links and other products that appear on this website are from companies which 10xTravel will earn an affiliate commission. 10xTravel is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner si...
Looking for the best travel gear for all your 2026 travel? Travis and Emily are joined by 10xTravel’s social media manager and resident packing expert, Lovan Edwards, to unpack the exact items they bring on every trip. The crew covers luggage picks, backpack setups, flight accessories, and more! From heated vests to Bluetooth-enabled sleep masks to ultra-efficient backpacks, they're breaking down what actually works after hundreds of flights, international trips, and long travel days. Whether you're a carry-on loyalist or an occasional checker, you’ll walk away with practical, tried-and-tested ideas to upgrade your next trip. What the episode covers: Carry-on vs. checked bag strategies Why the right luggage style changes everything The backpack features that matter most when traveling ✈️ Essential in-flight comfort items The travel tech we depend on (chargers, mounts, cables, organizers) Our favorite wellness and sleep tools for long flights Space-saving items we wish we had earlier In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Icebreaker 01:20 Travel Gear Fails 05:53 Debate: Checked Bags vs. Carry-On 11:04 Luggage Preferences: Clamshell vs. Top Load 18:48 Backpack Essentials 30:39 Travel Must-Haves: Headphones and Chapstick 35:04 Heated Vest Demonstration 37:20 Travel Gear Essentials 39:29 Packing Tips and Tricks 40:53 Travel Hygiene and Health 45:03 Travel Organization Debate 55:08 Tech and Gadgets for Travel 01:07:11 Final Thoughts and Recommendations Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Join us at an upcoming Meetup Stay Connected: Join our Community: 10xTravel Insiders Follow us on Instagram: @10xTravelblog Watch this and every episode of Takeoff on YouTube: @10xTravel Subscribe for more tips on travel, points, and miles! Don’t forget to hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode. Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the card links and other products that appear on this...
In this special episode, the team sits down together in person as Bryce records his final conversation as CEO of 10xTravel. For the first time, you’ll hear the full origin story in one place, starting with the moment a college kid with no travel budget stumbled into a hobby that changed his life - and the lives of so many others! You'll hear about: • How one spring break search sparked the idea • The early days of the ebook and the first affiliate conversations • The ABC News moment that caused the first major traffic surge • The Money Magazine issue that nearly shut everything down • How the Facebook group and community meetups took off • The ways readers helped keep 10xTravel alive during 2020 • The moments that brought the current team together • What Bryce sees for the next era of the company This episode looks back at more than a decade of growth, mistakes, lucky breaks, and the community moments that shaped 10xTravel into what it is now. It also sets the stage for what comes next as Travis steps into his new role and the team prepares for the future. In this episode: 00:00 Introduction 02:13 Bryce's Farewell Announcement 03:29 Bryce's Journey into Points and Miles 10:16 The Birth of 10xTravel 13:03 ABC News Feature and Its Impact 18:36 Transition to Affiliate Marketing 23:03 The Team's Origin Stories 32:42 Unexpected Hotel Mishaps 33:30 Joining the 10x Team 34:26 Creative Job Applications 37:04 Launching the Podcast 39:01 Building a Community 43:41 The Rollercoaster Years 50:10 Surviving COVID Challenges 56:06 A New Chapter for 10xTravel 01:02:10 Final Reflections and Farewell Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Join us at an upcoming Meetup Stay Connected: Join our Community: 10xTravel Insiders Follow us on Instagram: @10xTravelblog Watch this and every episode of Takeoff on YouTube: @10xTravel Subscribe for more tips on travel, points, and miles! Don’t forget to hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode. Advertiser Disclos...
How do business owners actually use credit cards, points, and miles to get the most travel out of their spend? In this episode, the 10xTravel crew sits down with Neill Drake, owner of Antarctica Travel Group, to explore how business owners can use credit cards, strategic spend, and loyalty programs to unlock massive value inside their companies. Neill shares how his agency grew from a small Facebook group to a thriving operation handling multimillion-dollar seasonal spend, and how he thinks about credit card choices, earning structures, partner programs, and the realities of using points as a business owner. You’ll hear how different industries can approach spend, why some companies benefit from flexibility over optimization, and how a business owner can use points to support team travel, unlock upgrades, and create meaningful perks inside the company. The episode also touches on the 10xTravel group trip to Antarctica happening in February 2027, and Neill offers insights into what travelers should expect when planning the journey. In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:04 Antarctica Adventures 07:20 The Origin of Antarctica Travel Group 12:55 Business Spend and Credit Card Strategies 18:20 Balancing Points and Business Needs 25:29 Maximizing Points and Employee Rewards 35:24 Points vs. Cash Back for Business Owners 39:12 Cash Back vs. Points: Finding the Balance 39:48 The Over-Optimization Phase 41:30 Travel Goals and Family Vacations 42:36 Flexibility in Travel Planning 43:59 Booking Strategies and Redemption Tips 48:01 Business Travel and Points Optimization 52:37 Common Mistakes and Tips for Business Owners 01:00:59 Excitement for the Antarctica Trip 01:11:22 The Unique Experience of Antarctica Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today
Dreaming of Thailand’s golden temples, street food, and island sunsets, and want to get there using points and miles? In this episode, Bryce, Emily, and Matt share exactly how they did just that, from finding award flights to booking dream hotels on points. You’ll learn: How Bryce’s original $20K Thailand redemption turned into 10xTravel’s viral success story Emily’s experience recreating that trip years later (and what’s changed since) The best airline programs for Thailand (ANA, Air Canada, Alaska, and more) Which hotel redemptions deliver the most luxury for the fewest points How to plan multi-stop routes and avoid 30-hour economy journeys Insider tips for Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and the southern islands What to know before you go: best months, routes, and realistic costs Stay to the end for a listener spotlight featuring a honeymoon booked entirely with points, plus details on the next 10xTravel group trip to Thailand! Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Host Greetings 00:44 Meetups and Community Stories 02:50 Thailand: A Popular Destination 03:36 Favorite Thailand References in Pop Culture 09:20 Planning Your Trip to Thailand 09:47 Best Airline Programs for Thailand 13:10 Air Canada and Other Airline Options 14:59 Alaska Airlines and Emirates 18:49 Flying Blue and Premium Cabin Considerations 25:05 Booking Tips for Thailand 25:54 Travel Experiences in Thailand 26:57 Hotel Recommendations in Thailand 35:13 Exploring Northern Thailand 38:35 Exploring Central and Southern Thailand 41:01 Listener Spotlight and Upcoming Trips 45:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today
