The Upgraded Points Podcast

Upgraded Points

Want to travel more and spend less? Every week, Upgraded Points provides expert insights, travel hacks, and the latest industry news to help you maximize your points and miles like a pro. Hosted by Chris Hassan and Katie Corrigan Seemann, travel experts at Upgraded Points, this podcast breaks down the best strategies for booking luxury flights, scoring hotel upgrades, and making every trip unforgettable — all without breaking the bank.

Expect insider tips, real-world trip breakdowns, and answers to your biggest travel questions. Whether you're a points and miles beginner or a seasoned expert, we’ll help you travel smarter, save money, and unlock next-level adventures.

Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com

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70 episodes
Updated Yesterday

Episodes70

Newest first

Oct 27, 2025 · 38 min
Money-Saving Travel Hacks You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner
Traveling doesn’t have to drain your wallet… if you know the right hacks! In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie break down the money-saving travel strategies that actually work. From booking hotels with breakfast included to getting a free eSIM and never paying for water at the airport again, these are the tips seasoned travelers swear by. They’ll also cover underrated tools that save hundreds on flights and hotels, how to get real value from credit card perks, and more. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a quick weekend getaway, these insider hacks will help you travel smarter, spend less, and make every trip feel like a win. 00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 29 00:48 Chase Sapphire Reserve changes 02:32 Seats.aero promo code 03:34 MaxMyPoint promo code 05:08 Money Saving Travel Hacks 33:26 Listener Q&A Chase Unveils Major Overhaul of the Sapphire Reserve Card: New Perks, Higher Annual Fee: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/chase-overhauls-sapphire-reserve-card/ Use this Seats.aero promo code to save 20% on an annual Pro subscription: UPGRADE3435 https://www.dpbolvw.net/click-8196909-17075279 Use This MaxMyPoint Promo Code To Save 20% on an Annual Subscription: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/maxmypoint-promo-code/ Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com. Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints
Oct 20, 2025 · 35 min
Amex Platinum’s Hidden Gem? Leaders Club Elite Status Explained
On this week’s episode, Chris and Katie dive into one of the best-kept secrets in luxury travel: Leaders Club from Leading Hotels of the World. With the Platinum Card® from American Express now offering complimentary Leaders Club Sterling elite status, cardholders can unlock perks at more than 400 independent luxury hotels in 80 countries — from historic palaces to private island retreats. They break down how this partnership works, what benefits you actually get (think upgrades, breakfast, and exclusive offers), and how to get the most value from Leaders Club stays — even when booking with points. You’ll also hear how Citi ThankYou Points can open the door to some surprisingly valuable redemptions. Plus, Katie shares her experience at La Casa de la Playa, one of Mexico’s most stunning Leading Hotels of the World properties, and the duo wraps up with practical advice for beginners building a strong points and miles foundation. Correction: In this episode, we mention that transferring Citi ThankYou Points to Leading Hotels of the World gives you a rate of 1,000 points = 140 Leaders Club points. However, if you have an eligible Citi card such as the Citi Strata Elite, Citi Strata Premier, Citi Prestige, or AT&T Access More, you actually get a better rate of 1,000 points = 200 Leaders Club points. 00:00: The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 28 01:15 Bilt adds Etihad 02:10 Amex Equinox benefit 03:55 Disney price increase 06:03 Leading Hotels of the World overview 07:40 Leaders Club Program 10:45 Sterling Elite Status 13:05 Earning and booking with points 20:32 La Casa de la Playa 28:21 Listener Q&A Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com. Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints
Oct 13, 2025 · 24 min
Capital One Miles Just Got WAY More Valuable (New Partners Added!)
Capital One just made a major move in the points and miles world by adding 3 new transfer partners — Japan Airlines, Qatar Airways Privilege Club, and Preferred Hotels & Resorts. Chris and Katie break down what this means for your travel redemptions, why now might be the perfect time to use your Capital One miles, and how these changes could make Capital One one of the most valuable travel programs today. They also share recent travel updates from São Paulo and Thailand, plus an amazing redemption story for an upcoming solar eclipse cruise in the Mediterranean, and answer some listener questions. 00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 27 01:01 The Westin São Paulo 02:50 The St. Regis Bangkok 06:46 Capital One’s new transfer partners 14:15 The best program? 18:19 Listener Q&A Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com. Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints Save 20% on Savewise: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/savewise-promo-code/
Oct 6, 2025 · 28 min
Amex Business Platinum Refresh: Huge New Perks & Higher Fee
In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, we dive into the latest updates shaking up the travel world, including the major refresh to the The Business Platinum Card from American Express. From new benefits to a bigger annual fee, we break down what these changes mean for cardholders and whether the updates make this card worth it for your business. We’ll also cover Chase’s updates to The Edit, how to save 20% on a Savewise Pro account, and answer your burning listener questions during our Q&A segment. Whether you’re a points pro or just getting started, this episode gives you practical insights to help you get more value out of your rewards. 00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 26 01:00 Chase The Edit 07:37 Savewise 20% off code 10:42 Amex Business Platinum Refresh 22:08 1 Major Issue 25:17 Listener Q&A Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com. Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints
Sep 29, 2025 · 22 min
TSA PreCheck vs Global Entry vs CLEAR (Get the BEST for FREE)
Traveling should be smooth, not stressful. In this episode, Chris and Katie break down the differences between TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, and Global Entry to help you decide which program is the right fit for your travel style. From skipping long security lines to breezing through customs, they’ll share the perks, drawbacks, and insider tips for each option. You’ll also hear some of the unique ways Chris and Katie have earned American Airlines miles—and how you can use those same strategies to maximize your travel. 00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 25 01:00 Earning AA miles 06:40 TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, or Global Entry? 13:53 Get them for FREE! Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com. Save 30% on CardPointers: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/cardpointers-discount/ Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints
Sep 22, 2025 · 35 min
HUGE Amex Platinum Changes (New Benefits, Higher Annual Fee)
The Platinum Card® from American Express just got a massive refresh for 2025 — with new benefits, new perks, and yes, a higher annual fee. Chris and Katie break down everything you need to know, from the new and updated benefits to whether the card is still worth it after the fee increase. 00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 24 01:00 Universal Halloween Horror Nights 03:45 Flights to Thailand 08:00 Amex Platinum changes 11:30 NEW benefits 21:35 Amex vs. Chase vs. Citi 28:05 Our thoughts 30:09 Listener Q&A Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com. Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints
Sep 15, 2025 · 18 min
Behind the Magic: Our Exclusive Visit to Walt Disney World
Step inside the magic with us! In this special episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie broadcast live from Walt Disney World in support of our "Magic in the Air" giveaway. They stayed at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort and sat down for exclusive interviews (inside the parks!) you won’t hear anywhere else, including Dr. Zak from Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Tara Anderson, Show Director of Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away. From behind-the-scenes insights to unforgettable Disney storytelling, this episode brings you closer to the parks than ever before. Plus, we share tips from our trip, listener questions, and a few surprises along the way. Whether you’re a lifelong Disney fan or just curious about what goes on behind the curtain, this one’s packed with pixie dust. ✨ 00:00 Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 23 02:00 Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort 04:42 Animal Kingdom with Dr. Zak and Allie 13:42 Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away with Tara Anderson 17:00 Win a trip to Walt Disney World Enter for your chance to win our Magic in the Air Giveaway! Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com. Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints
Sep 8, 2025 · 28 min
Alaska + Hawaiian Just Launched Atmos Rewards — Is This the Best New Airline Program?
Big news in the points and miles world… Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines have merged their loyalty programs into Atmos Rewards. But is this truly an upgrade or just a rebrand? In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie break down everything you need to know: redemption sweet spots, earning structures, and the highly anticipated Atmos Rewards Summit Card with big welcome bonuses. We also dive into the latest travel and credit card updates, including over 400 new Fine Hotels + Resorts and Hotel Collection properties added by Amex, special discounts, and more. Plus, a listener Q&A covers planning a dream trip to Thailand using points and miles, and we share expert tips on tools like FlightConnections, Seats.aero, and Roame. If premium travel for fewer points is your goal, this episode is packed with insights you don’t want to miss. Save 30% on CardPointers+: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/cardpointers-discount/ 00:00 Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 22 01:00 Amex adds 400 FHR Properties 02:00 CardPointers+ discount 05:00 Atmos Rewards Overview 10:30 Atmos Rewards Credit Cards 23:03 Listener Q&A Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints
Sep 2, 2025 · 26 min
Southwest Changes (Assigned Seats & New Credit Card Benefits)
Is Southwest turning into every other airline? In this week’s episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, we’re diving into major Southwest changes that some travelers are celebrating, while others aren’t too thrilled. From elite status perks to new credit card updates, Katie and Chris break down exactly what these shifts mean for your future flights and bookings. But that’s not all, we are also sharing the details of our brand new “Magic in the Air” Walt Disney World Resort vacation giveaway! Plus, we cover the latest American Airlines and Hyatt status matches, answer listener questions, and more. If you fly Southwest (or want to maximize your rewards), this is one you need to tune in for. For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: [0:00] The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 21 [0:50] Walt Disney World Giveaway* [2:50] American Airlines/Hyatt status match [6:00] Southwest changes [8:40] Southwest elite status [12:17] Southwest credit cards [19:25] Listener Q&A Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com *NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S./D.C., age 18+. Void outside the 50 U.S./D.C. and where prohibited. Sweepstakes starts at 12:00:01 AM ET on 09/01/25; ends at 11:59:59 PM ET on 09/30/25. Total ARV of all prizes: $9,283.56. Odds of winning will depend upon the total number of eligible entries received. Limit: One (1) Entry per person. For full Official Rules, visit https://upgradedpoints.com/news/win-trip-disney-world-september-2025/ Sponsor: Upgraded Points, LLC, 1155 Barton Springs Rd., Austin, TX 78704. Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints
Aug 25, 2025 · 32 min
NEW Citi Strata Elite Card: Should You Get It?
Citi just shook up the points and travel world with major updates and the launch of a brand-new travel rewards credit card. In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, we break down what these changes mean for travelers, from new partners and fresh perks to how you can maximize benefits with the latest card on the market. We’ll cover the biggest travel updates, unpack the details of Citi’s latest moves, and answer listener questions to help you get the most out of your points and miles. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting your rewards journey, this episode gives you the inside scoop on how to stretch your points further. For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: [0:00] The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 20 [1:30] Travel updates [7:54] Citi adds American Airlines [10:20] New Citi Strata Elite Card [16:51] Citi Strata Elite Benefits [22:00] Citi Strata Elite vs. Amex Platinum vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve [27:56] Listener Q&A Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website. Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints
Aug 18, 2025 · 33 min
Our Biggest Travel Pet Peeves (These Drive Us INSANE!)
We all love to travel—but let’s be honest, not every part of the journey is picture-perfect. From booking mishaps to seat-kicking neighbors, some moments test even the most patient travelers. In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie dive into their biggest on-board and hotel pet peeves, sharing the unspoken rules (and rule-breakers) of the travel world. They’re not alone, either—the Upgraded Points team weighs in with their own top travel annoyances, giving you a peek into what really grinds the gears of frequent flyers. And to wrap things up, we tackle listener questions in a lively Q&A. If you’ve ever rolled your eyes mid-flight or sighed at a slow hotel check-in, this episode will have you nodding—and maybe laughing—along. For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: [0:00] The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 19 [1:30] Gondola status challenge [1:45] Travel pet peeves [12:10] Hotel pet peeves [18:43] Upgraded Points staff pet peeves [29:04] Q&A Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website. Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints
Aug 11, 2025 · 36 min
How to Get VIP Hotel Perks Without Elite Status
Think hotel elite perks are only for top-tier travelers? Think again. In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie reveal insider tips on how to unlock elite hotel benefits—like room upgrades, late checkout, and free breakfast—even if you don’t have elite status. From smart booking strategies to credit cards that do the heavy lifting, they break down how you can travel like a VIP without the years of loyalty. You’ll also hear personal travel updates, underrated booking tips, and answers to listener questions in the Q&A segment. For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: [0:00] The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 18 [1:04] Travel updates from Chris and Katie [8:21] Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts [15:00] Chase The Edit [17:49] Virtuoso [27:00] Credit that give you elite status [30:20] Listener Q&A Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website. Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints
Aug 4, 2025 · 29 min
SLH vs Mr & Mrs Smith: What’s the Difference Between These Luxury Hotel Brands?
Big hotel brands are getting a boutique glow-up, and now your points can unlock some seriously stylish stays. In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, we break down the key differences between Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) and Mr & Mrs Smith hotels, plus how to book them with points through Hyatt and Hilton. We also cover the latest travel news: a new promo code for Roame, fresh lounge designs that ease crowding, and a brand-new credit card worth a look. And as always, we answer your listener questions. For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: [0:00] The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 17 [1:30] Airport lounges just might become less crowded [7:40] SLH vs Mr & Mrs Smith Hotels [13:49] Katie shares about her experience staying in a Mr & Mrs Smith Hotel [17:52] Malliouhana in Anguilla hotel was a SLH and has changed to Mr & Mrs Smith [21:20] Hotel Manapany in St. Barts [24:23] Q&A Roame.Travel promo code: save 15% off a Friends of Roame subscription using code UPGRADEDPOINTS Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website. Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints Sailrock South Caicos Review: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/what-to-know-sailrock-resort-south-caicos/ Maliouhana Review: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/malliouhana-anguilla-review/ Hotel Manapany Review: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/hotel-manapany-st-barts/
Jul 28, 2025 · 31 min
Best Credit Cards With No Annual Fee (That Are Actually Worth It)
Looking for credit cards that don’t charge an annual fee but do offer real value? In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie break down the best no-annual-fee cards for both personal and business use. They also cover the new TSA shoe removal rule, listener Q&A, and smart tips to help you choose the right $0 annual fee card for travel, rewards, or cash back. Whether you're just starting out or optimizing your setup, this one’s for you. For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: [0:00] The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 16 [1:15] TSA ends “Shoes-Off” policy [2:11] Hotel Zachary, Chicago, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel Review [4:25] Our favorite $0 annual fee cards [10:50] Best no annual fee cards for everyday spend [13:10] Best no annual fee cards for rent [14:10] Best no annual fee cards for lounge access [16:00] Best no annual fee airline and hotel cards [21:44] Best no annual fee business cards [27:00] Listener Q&A Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website. Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@upgradedpointspod
Jul 21, 2025 · 36 min
Don’t Waste Your Points: The Biggest Mistakes Beginners Make With Redemptions
In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Katie and Chris uncover the most common mistakes beginners make when redeeming credit card points and miles — and how to avoid them. From picking poor-value redemptions to misunderstanding sign-up bonuses and how they impact your credit score, they explain the rookie traps that can cost you big. You’ll also learn how to calculate cents-per-point value, strategies to use your points smarter, and answers to real listener questions to help you level up your travel rewards game and get the most from every mile. For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 15 [01:11] Chase/Marriott Status Promotion [05:16] Beginner Tips For Redeeming Points [09:04] Different types of points and miles [12:37] Credit card welcome bonuses [15:11] Credit score impact [18:50] How to redeem these points [22:40] Cents per point [24:50] What beginners should know about points [31:21] Q&A Time Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website. Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@upgradedpointspod
Jul 14, 2025 · 24 min
Big Amex Platinum Changes Coming in 2025? Here’s What You Need to Know
In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Katie and Chris are diving deep into the latest buzz in the world of travel and points—and there’s big news for American Express cardholders. Chris kicks things off with updates on his upcoming trip to Japan, sharing more details on his exciting itinerary. Meanwhile, Katie takes us back in time with stories from her stay at a historic hotel in Panama City, offering insights for travelers who love unique accommodations. They also take us behind the scenes at Copa Airlines, where Katie visited flight training facilities and learned firsthand what it takes to become a flight attendant. But the real headline is the shifting landscape of American Express. Katie and Chris discuss Amex’s new “As High As” welcome offers, changes to the Amex Business Platinum card’s 35% points rebate, and predictions about anticipated changes to the Amex Platinum card. , For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: [0:00] Chris booked more of his trip to Japan. [2:45] Katie’s stay at Hotel La Compania in Panama City. [6:18] Copa Airlines flight training and flight attendant training visit. [8:40] American Express has new “As High As” welcome offers. [10:32] Changes to the Amex Business Platinum’s 35% points rebate. [13:42] Upcoming changes to the Amex Platinum card. [19:14] Q&A: What happens to my points if I cancel my credit card? [20:51] Q&A: What is the biggest mistake people make with points and miles? [22:54] Q&A: Am I eligible for a Sapphire Reserve card if I already have a Sapphire Preferred card? Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website. Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@upgradedpointspod
Jul 7, 2025 · 27 min
Is The Chase Sapphire Reserve Card Still Worth It?
Welcome to The Upgraded Points Podcast, where hosts Katie and Chris break down everything you need to know about traveling smarter, flying better, and making the most of your credit card points. From insider airline updates to the best cards for travel perks, they’ve got your journey covered, no gate changes required. In this episode, we learn about the one promo you could use to help lock in elite airline status for the next 25 years, as well as some new Delta Sky Club lounges that have recently opened. Another big topic for this podcast is whether the Chase Sapphire Reserve card is worth it after all the changes recently made. Whether you're a seasoned points hacker or just getting started, Katie and Chris are your go-to crew for tips, news, and travel hacks that can upgrade your adventures. For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: [0:00] Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 13 [1:07] JetBlue promo to earn 350k points and elite status for 25 years [4:18] New Delta Sky Club lounges [6:22] Chase Sapphire Reserve card changes [16:08] Timeline for the Chase Sapphire Reserve changes [19:54] Is the card still worth it? [24:33] Answering listener questions Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website. Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints
Jun 30, 2025 · 28 min
A Week in Europe Using Points and Miles
In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris kicks things off with how he cleverly redeemed credits and points—plus, he shares a wild story about flying on a plane that looks like a turtle (yes, really!). Katie dives into her recent trip to Europe, breaking down exactly how she booked it using points and sharing savvy tips to help you save big on your own European getaway. After a quick break, Katie continues her travel recap with more helpful advice and real-world takeaways. Finally, Chris and Katie answer listener questions about maximizing points, partner airlines, and how to stretch your miles even further. Whether you’re dreaming of Europe or just curious about the quirks of aviation, this episode is packed with insider info, laughs, and practical advice to help you travel smarter. For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: [0:00] Teaser and introduction [1:11] Chris talks about how he used his United credits to book an ANA flight from Hawaii to Japan. [6:21] Katie discusses booking her trip to Europe (Frankfurt and Amsterdam, specifically) and how it went, giving tips for others to save more on their trips. Get the details of another trip to Europe that Katie booked with points and miles: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/week-in-europe-points-miles/ This week-long trip had a value (for flights and hotels) of just over $14,000, but Katie spent just $1,172 out of pocket. [12:36] Break time [12:51] Katie continues talking about her trip to Europe after the break. Andaz Amsterdam Review: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/andaz-amsterdam-prinsengracht-review/ [25:10] The hosts answers viewers' questions about points and miles. How to pool airline and hotel points and miles: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/airlines-hotels-pool-points-miles/ Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website. Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints
Jun 23, 2025 · 32 min
The Best Credit Cards For Airport Lounge Access
In this episode, Chris and Katie take you through their latest travel experiences and dive deep into the world of airport lounge access. Chris shares what it was like flying with Copa Airlines, while Katie talks about scoring an upgrade with American Airlines in Charlotte. They then explore which credit cards offer the best lounge access, why lounge perks matter for frequent travelers, and which cards are dropping lounge privileges. From the premium American Express Platinum to a no-annual fee card that comes with lounge access, they break down options for every type of traveler. Plus, Katie reveals a savvy trick for getting the most out of “Grab and Go” offerings at Delta Sky Clubs—enough to feed two people! The episode wraps up with a listener Q&A, so don’t miss it. For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: [0:00] The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 11 [0:30] Introduction [1:08] Chris talks about his experience flying with Copa Airlines [4:34] Katie shares about a recent upgrade she had while flying on American Airlines. [8:14] What credit card should you get for the best lounge access, why travelers would want to have good lounge access, including some cards that are lounge access policies. [15:47] Chris discusses the American Express Platinum card. [17:52] Katie brings up another card that offers lounge access without an annual fee. [19:15] Credit cards that allow travelers to get into airline-specific lounges. [24:42] Katie talks about her experience with using Delta Sky Club’s “Grab and Go” option and how travelers can get enough food for two people if they plan smartly. [27:04] Recap: best credit cards for lounge access [27:20] Listener question Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website. Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints Best Credit Cards for Airport Lounge Access: https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/lounge-access/
Jun 16, 2025 · 18 min
Book These Business Class Flights with Points in 2025
In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie share their top business class redemptions that you can actually book with points and miles in 2025, including options on American Airlines, Qatar Qsuites, ANA, Japan Airlines, Condor, and more. Whether you're planning a dream trip to Japan or want a lie-flat seat across the Atlantic, you'll hear real booking examples, points prices, and firsthand tips to help you book smarter. They also break down the CLEAR Plus price increase, how to get discounts (or even free memberships) through credit cards and airline status, and which travel perks are actually worth it. Finally, they answer a listener's question: Are points only useful if you book last minute? Find out how to make the most of your points no matter when your travel is for. Timestamps: [0:00] Welcome! Chris and Katie kick things off with a fun routing tip—how a stopover in Hawaii could score you a cheaper business class flight to Japan. [1:00] CLEAR Plus membership is getting a price hike starting in July. Chris explains the new pricing, while Katie shares how to get CLEAR for free or at a discount using credit cards or airline status programs. [4:10] Chris and Katie start digging into their favorite business class redemptions booked with points, starting with Qatar Airways Qsuites.. [6:30] How to find award space, what makes ANA’s business class special, and why flying from Hawaii can save you a lot. Booking tips for Japan Airlines, Condor, and KLM, plus the importance of using tools like seats.aero to find award space. [10:00] Why same-itinerary bookings from smaller airports can be a game changer, especially when flights get disrupted. [13:45] How to find these flights yourself, setting award alerts, and using the right tools. [15:45] Listener question: Are points only useful if you book at the last minute? Tips for planners and smart redemptions with a 5 to 6 month lead. [17:00] Final thoughts + wrap-up: Expand your search, sign up for the newsletter, and make your points go further. Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints Podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/upgradedpointspod Want to unlock business class for economy prices? Sign up for our free award alerts newsletter and follow us for the latest deals, guides, and tips.