Katie Corrigan Seemann

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 2501:00 Earning AA miles06:40 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 

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 2401:00 Universal Halloween Horror Nights03:45 Flights to Thailand08:00 Amex Platinum changes11:30 NEW benefits21:35 Amex vs. Chase vs. Citi28:05 Our thoughts30:09 Listener Q&AWant more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com.Follow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 

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 2302:00 Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort04:42 Animal Kingdom with Dr. Zak and Allie13:42 Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away with Tara Anderson 17:00 Win a trip to Walt Disney WorldEnter 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 

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 2201:00 Amex adds 400 FHR Properties02:00 CardPointers+ discount05:00 Atmos Rewards Overview10:30 Atmos Rewards Credit Cards23:03 Listener Q&AFollow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 

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&AWant 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 

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 

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 

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&AWant 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 

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&ARoame.Travel promo code: save 15% off a Friends of Roame subscription using code UPGRADEDPOINTSWant 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/

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&AWant 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

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 TimeWant 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