The Thrifty Traveler Podcast

Some deals are just unbelievably good in the world of points and miles … and a select few are too good to last forever. That’s why the guys are shining the light on some of the best deals in all of points and miles - the ones you should book ASAP before they disappear. Whether you’re spending 2,000 miles on a domestic flight, 60,000 miles to fly business class to Japan, or flying lie-flat to London for a fraction of the miles (and fees) that other airlines charge, we analyze the endangered species of points and miles redemptions. Plus, the guys unpack Alaska’s family-friendly update and wonder aloud: Should there be a smoking section inside Southwest’s upcoming lounges? Thank you to our sponsor, Bilt Rewards! Earn points on rent and make your entire neighborhood more rewarding with Bilt. Sign up at joinbilt.com/thrifty.Watch us on YouTube!Join the conversation! Sign up for the free Thrifty Traveler Podcast Slack community today.00:00 - Travel hacks we won’t gatekeep … even questionable ones02:05 - Sherie welcomes us back to the show from Lauterbrunnen!02:45 - Alaska goes worst to first for its lap infant policy07:20 - Southwest announces lounges and a premium card12:10 - A word from our sponsor: Bilt Rewards!13:20 - Endangered: The 10 best deals that are too good to last46:20 - Extinct: The ones that got away50:35 - Jennifer asks: When should you buck the flights first rule?52:20 - Katie asks: What happens to your points bonus if you downgrade?54:50 - On the Spot: What deal would you un-gatekeep? Produced and edited by Sylvia ThomasVideo editing by Kyle ThomasShow music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s time to learn how to redeem those points and miles you’ve earned for travel … and while it might seem scary, this is the fun part! We walk through the basics of redeeming your points – including a step-by-step guide to transferring to partner airlines and hotels, which is (almost) always the best path. Plus, a primer on airline alliances, finding award availability, and some of our best ideas of how to redeem your points for maximum value for your next big trip. Watch us on YouTube!Starter Kit is sponsored by Thrifty Traveler Premium, the world’s best flight deal service. Get $20 off your first year of Thrifty Traveler Premium flight deal alerts - use promo code “START” at thriftytraveler.com/premium. 00:00 - Do we still get nervous transferring points? 02:30 - What should you earn: Points or miles? 04:50 - Using credit card points: Travel portals & transfers09:00 - When it makes sense to transfer your points12:30 - A primer on finding that all-important award availability15:50 - Why knowing airline alliances & partnerships is key20:00 - How to transfer points: A step-by-step guide21:30 - Sign up for all your airline programs now!30:05 - Our favorite programs and redemptions to get started36:30 - How to NOT use your points and miles42:00 - Your Vol. 3 Flight Plan!Volume 3 Flight Plan: Set up all of your loyalty accounts as soon as possibleDo your homework: Check for availability and all possible options before booking, including the travel portal and other partner airlinesGet to know transfer partners, alliances, and partnershipsUse the Flight Plan from Ep. 1: Use the flights first rule and be flexibleEarn and burn: Use those points - they rarely go up in valueRelated Episodes:Ep. 5 - The 10 Commandments of Points & MilesEp. 66 - Airline Alliances EpisodeEp. 73 - The Current State of Award Availability in 2026The Master List of Credit Card Transfer PartnersProduced and edited by Sylvia ThomasVideo editing by Kyle ThomasShow music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Google Flights is making a big move into the points and miles game, United’s CEO’s egotistical comments, Delta’s weird (but arguably best-ever?) credit card offer, and a bevy of new Europe routes all headline a big news roundup to close out the summer. Tune in as Gunnar and Kyle dole out advice about transferring points to Hyatt, analyze the boom in flights to the slopes, look into some puzzling Chase Sapphire Lounge news, and review the Delta One Lounge in Seattle, KLM’s Premium Comfort seats, and Gunnar’s latest glamping adventure! Download SAILY's app and use code THRIFTY at checkout to get an exclusive 15% off your first purchase! For further details go to https://saily.com/thrifty ⛵ Watch us on YouTube! Join the conversation! Sign up for the free Thrifty Traveler Podcast Slack community today. 00:00 - & the winner of our credit card draft is… 02:15 - What’s going on with Gunnar’s voice? 03:10 - Staley welcomes us back from South Africa! 04:20 - Google Flights gets into the points game 08:40 - United’s cardholder discounts: Solid, but no slam dunk 15:20 - Let’s Play: Translate! That! Airline CEO! (ft. United’s Scott Kirby) 22:55 - Delta’s weird (but awesome) credit card offer 27:00 - New route nerd out: Europe flying goes sky high 33:20 - A word from our sponsor, Saily! 34:25 - Will this be the end of pre-departure drinks? 36:40 - Chase drops its only lounge reservation system 38:00 - American’s new (& worse?) premium card 39:05 - Analyzing the flight boom to ski resorts 42:30 - Delta One Lounge Seattle review 44:00 - KLM: Premium Comfort vs. Biz Class 47:05 - Gunnar’s latest glamping adventure 48:45 - The most & least expensive airports for a beer 51:20 - A listener asks: Should you speculatively transfer from Chase to Hyatt? 55:35 - On the spot: The ideal number of travel beers?   Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you want to get into redeeming points and miles, you need to earn them first. So in our second installment of our Starter Kit series, Gunnar and Kyle break down the best strategies for earning tons of travel rewards. While it might start with credit cards as the engine of an earning strategy - and the guys spend some time outlining their strategies and busting credit score myths - there are plenty of other ways to rack up all the points and miles you need, too. Watch us on YouTube! Our Starter Kit is sponsored by Thrifty Traveler Premium, the world’s best flight deal service. Get $20 off your first year of Thrifty Traveler Premium flight deal alerts - use promo code “START” at thriftytraveler.com/premium.  00:00 - What would do with a blank slate in points & miles? 02:35 - The most important step for earning tons of points 07:50 - Understanding award travel credit cards 15:40 - What to consider when signing up for a credit card? 22:20 - Our favorite starter travel rewards credit cards 29:30 - Go deeper: Sign up for our free Extra Mile newsletter! 30:00 - How to earn points & miles with strategic spending 37:30 - The ways to earn points & miles without credit cards Volume 2 Flight Plan:  Get Organized: Track and organize your points and credit cards using our credit card benefit tracker, a personal spreadsheet, or a note on your smartphone. Set a goal & work backwards: Set your travel goals first, then figure out what points, miles, and credit cards can get you there. Use the “Potter Pause”: Activate that mental block before you make any purchase so you can maximize every dollar you spend. Ramp up your “accidental earning”: Link your loyalty programs, sign up for shopping and travel portals, and nibble around the edges to stack up points and miles. Related Episodes: https://thriftytraveler.com/podcasts/ep-67-record-card-bonuses/ https://thriftytraveler.com/podcasts/bonus-ep-chase-sapphire-preferred-update/ https://thriftytraveler.com/podcasts/ep-61-how-to-earn-a-million-points/ https://thriftytraveler.com/podcasts/episode-46-whats-in-our-wallets/ https://thriftytraveler.com/podcasts/episode-30-award-travel-tools-of-the-trade/ Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Gunnar’s gone, so Kyle and Nick go head-to-head in a fantasy football style draft to build the perfect five-card travel wallet ... with a lot riding on the outcome, thanks to a last-minute bet. But before the draft, they unpack American’s (long-overdue) reversal to seatback screens, United’s splashy 2027 international expansion, and Flying Blue’s horrible news. Plus, they answer a listener’s questions about insurance that comes from top travel credit cards. Thanks to our sponsor, Saily! Download Saily’s app and use code THRIFTY at checkout to get 15% off your first purchase. Learn more at saily.com/thrifty. Watch us on YouTube! Join the conversation! Sign up for the free Thrifty Traveler Podcast Slack community today. 00:00 - The state of travel credit cards in 2026 is… 03:44 - Igor welcomes us back from Torrey Pines 05:57 - American’s seatback-screen reversal and United’s 13 new routes 12:20 - Boo: Flying Blue’s new three-tier award pricing 19:45 - A word from our sponsor, Saily 20:45 - The Extra Mile: Drafting the best five-card wallet  46:22 - A listener asks: Which cards have the best built-in travel insurance? 49:55 - Fantasy draft punishment Vote for who had the best wallet on our YouTube:  Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are you ready to get started with points, miles, and all things cheap travel? It all starts with airfare, so in this first installment of our new Starter Kit series, Gunnar and Kyle walk through how to find the cheapest flight possible, every single time. The guys cover the tips, tricks, tools, and (most importantly) the mindset you need to find cheap flights and start traveling more for less. Watch us on YouTube! Our Starter Kit is sponsored by Thrifty Traveler Premium, the world’s best flight deal service. Get $20 off your first year of Thrifty Traveler Premium flight deal alerts - use promo code “START” at thriftytraveler.com/premium.  00:00 - Kicking off our Starter Kit: How we got started 2:52 - The two most important rules for finding cheap flights 7:09 - Why you NEED to start your search with Google Flights 11:24 - One-way flights versus roundtrip bookings 15:34 - Learning how to follow the deal, not the destination  16:51 - Positioning flights: the key to cheaper international fares 18:56 - And the risks of using those positioning flights… 20:35 - The intricacies of airfare & what to avoid 24:38 - The art of rebooking flights to save even more 30:26 - Busting bogus airfare myths 33:35 - Your Flight Plan - Recap & to-dos from Ep. 1 36:48 - Up next in Starter Kit…   Vol. 1 Flight Plan:  Think “Flights First”: Plan your trips around the best flight deals and book them before anything else Book quickly: Utilize the 24-hour flight cancellation rule to get the best deals. Book fast, figure out the details later.  Get to know Google Flights: By far the most powerful flight booking tool and the key to saving on airfare. Use its price calendar, the filters, and price alerts to book when prices drop Start re-booking your flights: Set up price alerts on your existing flights and rebook when prices drop. It’s the most underrated way to save big on travel.    Related episodes: https://thriftytraveler.com/podcasts/ep-72-google-flights/ https://thriftytraveler.com/podcasts/episode-47-post-booking-checklist/ https://thriftytraveler.com/podcasts/episode-25-book-the-cheapest-flight-every-time/ https://thriftytraveler.com/podcasts/episode-50-inside-thrifty-traveler/ https://thriftytraveler.com/podcasts/ep-70-top-10-flight-deals/ Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Introducing “Starter Kit” - a dedicated series of special bonus episodes to help you get started in points and miles, become a true award travel “sicko” or just brush up on your skills and knowledge on all things cheap travel. Over the course of several episodes, we’ll walk through the basics of finding cheap flights, the best ways to earn tons of points, how to transfer and redeem miles for maximum value, and all the tools we use to stay organized and get ahead. Episode 1 of Starter Kit drops Tuesday, Aug. 25, with future installments coming every Tuesday into the fall. Each episode will  appear right here on the Thrifty Traveler Podcast feed, wherever you get your podcasts as well as on YouTube! Our Starter Kit is brought to you by the world’s best flight deal alert service, Thrifty Traveler Premium. Sign up today at thriftytraveler.com/premium - use the special promo code “START” to get $20 off your first year.  Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kyle is out on vacation, so … Kyle is in - the younger, arguably cooler, and definitely taller Kyle, that is. Our podcast editor & social media guru, Kyle Thomas, joins Gunnar on the show to recap his recent flight in United’s new “Elevated” Polaris business class cabin over to London and answers the question: How does it stack up against his beloved Delta One? Plus, the guys talk through some troubling trends with American AAdvantage miles, and review some Resy/Tock news. Thanks to our sponsor, Monarch! Go to Monarch.com and use code “THRIFTY” to get your first year of Monarch Core half off at just $50! Watch us on YouTube! Join the conversation! Sign up for the free Thrifty Traveler Podcast Slack community today. 00:00 - A different (& better) Kyle weighs in with a business class take 02:42 - Megan welcomes back the show from Charleston 03:24 - Something Hot: Avios are getting … easier to redeem? 05:18 - Another Something Hot: So are Amex dining credits?!  07:35 - Something Cold: The long-dreaded AAdvantage devaluation is underway 14:32 - A word from our sponsor: Monarch! 15:36 - The Extra Mile: Kyle pits United Polaris against Delta One 16:53 - Highlights & misses from United’s new “Elevated” Polaris biz class 31:20 - Final scorecard from United Polaris 31:32 - Kyle recaps the wins & losses from 10 (!!!) Delta One flights 42:09 - & a scorecard from Delta One 42:35 - And the final verdict is… 47:18 - A listener asks: Where to credit miles for a Lufthansa redemption? 51:58 - On the Spot: Tips to maximize a short stay Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From a bizarre (and arguably absurd) Delta flight pricing quirk, new and disappearing Alaska Atmos redemptions, American’s late premium push, or the ongoing “Battle for Seattle,” there’s no shortage of travel news for Gunnar and Kyle to break down on the show this week. Plus, the guys help a listener with that age-old question of award travel: should you book a flight with lower mileage rates or fewer fees? Thank you to our sponsor, Bilt Rewards! Earn points on rent and make your entire neighborhood more rewarding with Bilt. Sign up at joinbilt.com/thrifty. And another thanks to North Dakota Tourism for sponsoring the show! Watch us on YouTube! Join the conversation! Sign up for the free Thrifty Traveler Podcast Slack community today. 00:00 - Being “back from Japan” is so tough 02:45 - Kelly & Wes welcome us back from Kona! 04:45 - Delta airfare absurdity: Athens for less than Atlanta?! 08:50 - RIP to this awesome biz class redemption 10:50 - But Philippine Airlines is now bookable with Alaska! 13:10 - Two awesome transfer bonuses this month 15:10 - Amex adds an interesting new hotel partner 18:40 - The overlooked 100K point Chase card offers 20:40 - A word from our sponsors: Bilt Rewards & North Dakota Tourism 22:45 - American adds Flagship Check-in at DFW … 26:45 - … but cuts some upgrades for elites … 29:05 - … and raises the annual fee on its top credit card 33:00 - SkyMiles and Starbucks switch it up (again) 35:30 - Delta bullies out another airline 40:00 - But the Battle for Seattle rages on 45:10 - Would you rather: Lower award rate or fewer fees? 49:20 - On the Spot: Predicting the next fare war Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The guys took the show on the road: Coming to you live from TEDxFargo in North Dakota in late July, Gunnar and Kyle devoted an episode of the show to airports not named JFK, LAX, MSP, ORD, or the other big hubs. The guys swapped stories and shared tips about traveling from smaller airports and cities. They talk about their favorite (and least favorite …) experiences at small airports before diving into the top tips for finding better deals, using points and miles, and traveling smarter from smaller airports. Plus, a TTPOD fan forces Gunnar to reckon with his O’Hare take and (former Fargo resident!) Kyle delights in seeing Gunnar’s reaction to visiting Fargo for the first time. This episode is presented by Visit Fargo-Moorhead! And our thanks to North Dakota Tourism and Fargo Hector International Airport! Watch us on YouTube! Join the conversation! Sign up for the free Thrifty Traveler Podcast Slack community today. 00:00 - Kyle’s triumphant return to Fargo 01:15 - Our favorite travel beers 04:15 - The Fargo audience welcomes us back! 04:35 - Thanks to our presenting sponsor: Visit Fargo-Moorhead 06:15 - Swapping our best small airport travel experiences 16:30 - Our weirdest, quirkiest small airport stories 22:30 - Thanks to our sponsor: North Dakota Tourism 23:35 - How to save on flights from smaller airports 43:50 - Thanks to our sponsor: Fargo Hector International Airport 44:40 - The best part of flying out of a small airport 46:30 - How to make travel easier at smaller airports 51:45 - Programs to avoid for high fees and surcharges 54:30 - Gunnar’s official legal statement about O’Hare 56:15 - Kyle’s favorite Fargo memory & best Fargo beer Video & Audio production by LiveWire Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kyle joins the show from the Park Hyatt Tokyo on this special Japan-themed episode. While the sun slowly rises behind him, Kyle first revisits his scorching hot take about the rise of SkyMiles before the guys dig into where to go in Japan, how to get there, and where to stay on your next trip. Plus, Gunnar gives his own hot take about jet lag, and Kyle gives advice on how to beat it. Watch us on YouTube! Download SAILY's app and use code THRIFTY at checkout to get an exclusive 15% off your first purchase! For further details, go to https://saily.com/thrifty Join the conversation! Sign up for the free Thrifty Traveler Podcast Slack community today. 00:00 - Kyle is live from the Park Hyatt Tokyo! 02:35 - Kyle and Matt give us a Japan-themed welcome back 03:25 - Kyle’s scorching hot Delta SkyMiles take 09:45 - Pushing back on Kyle’s take and the “clearance meat” story 13:20 - Chase cuts Priority Pass users out of its lounges 16:25 - Kyle’s grueling 10 hours of DFW lounge hopping 18:50 - A word from our sponsor Saily!  19:50 - The Extra Mile: Where to go in Japan 35:00 - How to fly to Japan: Haneda vs. Narita and flight deals 40:15 - Kyle’s review of the new JAL Biz Class on the A350 47:50 - Where to stay in Japan: Hyatt Regency, Conrad and more 55:20 - How to get around in Japan 57:37 - What points should Judy earn for biz class flights to Japan 01:01:00 - Kyle’s tips for beating jet lag Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The world of all things points and miles is changing rapidly. So to dig into where things are at and what’s ahead, Gunnar and Kyle bring in the man they call “St. Peter” – Thrifty Traveler’s Senior Award Analyst and guru of all things award travel, Peter Thornton – to talk about the state of award availability and spell out the best uses of your points and miles as we enter the second half of 2026. Plus, they recap about some rare business class deals making a comeback, why airlines are throttling award searches … and, for some reason, talk a lot about cycling?  Show Notes Thanks to our sponsor, Bellroy! Check out Bellroy’s travel gear and get 10% off using this link. They've got the perfect design for any kind of traveler. Watch us on YouTube! Join the conversation! Sign up for the free Thrifty Traveler Podcast Slack community today. 00:00 - Introducing “St. Peter” and his adventure across Iowa 03:35 - Rami introduces the show from Emirates First Class! 04:35 - Rare business class awards are … back? 09:25 - Airlines are blocking award searches 15:15 - The Extra Mile: The current state of award availability 20:40 - Where to find economy award availability 23:30 - Where to find business class deals 27:15 - R.I.P. to the deals that got away 36:00 - Peter predicts: What’s coming next? 40:20 - A listener asks: How to find award space before calling to book 44:30 - Peter asks: What state would you bike across? Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Booking cheap travel starts and ends with Google Flights, which is why Gunnar and Kyle devoted a full episode of the podcast to how to use our favorite website - including some of the advanced features that can help you find the cheapest fares on the planet and help you book flights like a pro. The guys go over the basics before digging into next-level features like Explore, Alerts, and plenty of other details that set Google Flights apart as the best travel tool out there.  Show Notes Go to Monarch.com and use code “THRIFTY” to get your first year of Monarch Core half off at just $50! Download SAILY's app and use code THRIFTY at checkout to get an exclusive 15% off your first purchase! For further details go to https://saily.com/thrifty  Watch us on YouTube! Join the conversation! Sign up for the free Thrifty Traveler Podcast Slack community today. 00:00 - Elevator pitch: Why should you use Google Flights? 02:50 - Dan & Terry welcome us back from the Andaz Costa Rica 03:40 - The Extra Mile: How to use Google Flights like a pro 23:10 - A word from our sponsor: Saily! 24:10 - A word from our sponsor: Monarch! 25:15 - Google Flights 401: Explore, Price Alerts & and more 41:00 - What about PointsPath or Seats.Aero browser extensions? 45:00 - What did Gunnar use before Google Flights?   Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Forget what you’ve heard about flight prices: There’s still time to get a great summer flight deal … if you know where to look. That’s what Gunnar and Kyle discussed this week along with a deep dive on where things stand with airfare. Are we going to get a break from high fares soon? Plus, the guys hate Delta’s new “Basic Business” fares, they love Flighty’s latest update, and they get the latest story in the saga of “bougie boyfriend.”  Show Notes Thank you to our sponsor, Bilt Rewards! Earn points on rent and make your entire neighborhood more rewarding with Bilt. Sign up at joinbilt.com/thrifty.  This week’s episode is also by Visit Fargo-Moorhead! Watch us on YouTube! Join the conversation! Sign up for the free Thrifty Traveler Podcast Slack community today. 00:00 - Ranking World Cup countries as travel destinations 02:05 - Katie welcomes us back to the show from London! 03:00 - The new-look Thrifty Traveler Podcast! 03:20 - Flighty’s new connection assistant update 06:23 - Sounding off on Delta “Basic Business” 15:40 - A word from our sponsor Bilt Rewards! 16:40 - A word from our sponsor Visit Fargo-Moorhead! 18:15 - What’s happening with airfare? 29:00 - Where to (still) find summer deals 38:50 - A listener’s “bougie boyfriend” 41:20 - How many Chase cards is too many? 44:45 - Kyle’s ideal place for a race route Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s the halfway point in 2026, so Gunnar ranked up the 10 best flight deals (and three best hotel deals) of the year so far … and Kyle got to air all of his gripes and grievances about Gunnar’s list. In a six-month span that will surely be remembered for high airfare, we’re celebrating the deals that just kept coming – from flights to Asia in the $300s roundtrip to a business class mistake fare, and more. Plus, we help a listener with their “phantom” space problem, and Gunnar revisits the Taco Bell Cantina at DEN … again … Thanks to our sponsors:  Download SAILY's app and use code THRIFTY at checkout to get an exclusive 15% off your first purchase! For further details go to https://saily.com/thrifty ⛵ Book your next flight at FargoAirport.com! Watch us on YouTube! Join the conversation! Sign up for the free Thrifty Traveler Podcast Slack community today. 00:00 - What’s the big story from the first half of 2026? 04:00 - And why is that the Taco Bell Cantina DEN … 05:05 - Dana, Clayton, & Stan from White Sands, New Mexico 06:15 - A new best way to book Hawaiian Airlines Biz Class 09:30 - Qantas Biz Class on one of the world’s longest flights  11:25 - A rare sale on Delta’s flights to South Africa 13:05 - Delta One SkyMiles sale to Hong Kong 15:55 - Flights to Tahiti for $463 roundtrip 17:34 - A word from our sponsor: Fargo Airport (FAR)! 18:25 - A word from our sponsor: Saily! 19:18 - Some love for hotels, starting with Hermitage Bay Antigua 20:35 - Availability at the renovated Park Hyatt Tokyo 21:30 - The new Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica 22:45 - The first widespread Qsuites availability in years 26:50 - Delta One to Europe from 97k SkyMiles each way 31:10 - Flights to Asia from $359 … roundtrip! 33:15 - Turkish Airlines Biz Class mistake fare 35:50 - The best deal of the year … so far … 39:00 - How did Gunnar do on his top 10 list? 39:50 - Kyle’s honorable mentions 41:15 - What is “phantom” award space? 45:10 - What’s the best thing we’ve booked in 2026? Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Gunnar and Kyle brag about gettin’ booksy before diving into a busy week of news: The single best redemption using Southwest miles, translating an airline CEO’s infuriating airfare comments, applaud a true sicko’s way of transferring points to Hilton, and more. Plus, the guys draft their favorite new routes debuting this winter and play the World Cup … of flight deals. Show Notes Watch us on YouTube! Join the conversation! Sign up for the free Thrifty Traveler Podcast Slack community today. 00:00 - Gunnar & Kyle both got “booksy” 02:24 - The Larsons welcome us back from Machu Picchu! 03:50 - Is this the best Southwest Rapid Rewards redemption? 08:55 - Translating Delta CEO’s (gross) comments on airfare 16:45 - A new Delta One Lounge ATL … eventually 21:15 - Transferring points from Chase to Hilton 24:25 - A Thrifty Traveler Premium flight deal World Cup 27:50 - Delta SkyMiles premium snack benefit extended! 29:30 - & T-Mobile customers get a free drink! 30:20 - We’re hiring! What it’s like to work with us … 31:45 - Drafting our favorite new winter routes 37:45 - A listener asks: How to use Google Flights for award travel? 41:05 - On the spot: Advice for getting into the travel industry Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Don’t dwell on the bad stuff, the guys remind themselves … because there’s plenty to be excited about in travel right now! So this week on the pod, Gunnar and Kyle outline all the things that are going well in travel right now: flight deals, new routes and airplane seats, big improvements for airport security, bigger and better lounges, massive credit card offers, and more. Plus, the guys help a listener decide on an airline from a Midwestern city and see if Kyle can stay positive for an entire 45 minutes! Thanks to our sponsors: Check out Bellroy’s travel gear and get 10% off using our link: https://bit.ly/4djV6u7 Head to Saily.com/Thrifty for 15% off your first purchase! Get 50% off your first year of Monarch with promo code “THRIFTY” Watch us on YouTube! Join the conversation! Sign up for the free Thrifty Traveler Podcast Slack community today. 00:00 - A word from our sponsor, Bellroy! 01:19 - Is it actually “The Golden Age of Points and Miles”? 03:18 - Shiloh welcomes us back from Costa Rica! 03:50 - Flight deals are still good 07:00 - Delta SkyMiles deals keep getting better 09:45 - A bevy of (fun) new route announcements 14:10 - An exciting newcomer: Japan Airlines Mileage Bank 18:05 - Touchless kiosks & CLEAR improvements are changing TSA lines 21:40 - Credit card bonuses are better than ever 24:25 - A word from our sponsor, Saily! 25:30 - A word from our sponsor, Monarch! 26:45 - New, more lucrative ways to earn points 29:40 - New seats, new planes & new hotels 33:20 - Airline loyalty gets you further (sometimes) 36:45 - Bigger, better lounges & more of them 40:00 - An Indy listener weighs American vs. Delta 43:22 - What positive trend impacts Gunnar the most? Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

An audience of close to 300 travelers joined us at the Parkway Theater in Minneapolis for an unhinged episode and the very-first (but not last) live recording of the podcast. The guys dish out some hot takes, take a look at the state of flight deals right now, and then share some stories of the highs and lows of travel, because travel isn’t always pretty … and sometimes, it’s downright disgusting. Plus, the guys take some questions from the audience, chastise the travelers for their airport arrivals behavior, and so much more. Show Notes Thank you to Meet Minneapolis for sponsoring this special episode of the Thrifty Traveler Podcast! Watch us on YouTube! Join us for the next live show in Fargo, North Dakota on Wednesday, July 29! Get your tickets now. 00:20 - TV personality Jason Matheson intros your hosts! 01:50 - When did Kyle think this show would end? 05:09 - Our live audience welcomes us back! 05:28 - Hot takes: Delta SkyMiles is climbing the ranks 09:40 - Gunnar’s airport walking solution 10:52 - Are credit cards the best or worst thing to happen to air travel? 14:35 - The current state of flight deals 22:40 - The arrivals pickup area at MSP is a disaster 24:27 - Thanks to our sponsors: MSP Airport, Sun Country Airlines, & Meet Minneapolis! 26:38 - Acknowledging our listeners who traveled to join us – including the Netherlands! 27:34 - The highs and lows of travel 28:20 - Kyle’s trip to Vietnam that started it all 33:50 - Gunnar’s $10k travel day to impress his cool, hot wife 36:48 - Kyle’s travel low: Back to Vietnam 39:35 - Gunnar desecrates the world’s most beautiful beach 45:10 - Our biggest travel pet peeves 46:42 - The biggest biz class booking mistakes 48:20 - How has travel hacking changed our personalities? 50:35 - Kyle puts Gunnar on the spot 53:55 - Thank you to our audience, listeners & sponsors! Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Audio and video recording by Jon Camp Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot  Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s official: The banks are losing their minds … with some of the best welcome bonuses we’ve ever seen, all at once. The guys start the show by debating whether the Chase Sapphire Preferred’s record-tying 100,000-point bonus is the GOAT before digging into a slew of other new offers that can quickly replenish your stash of points. Plus, they look into some bad news at CLEAR and wonder if the TSA PreCheck line is about to get busier. And Gunnar unveils the new sign-up bonus on his (completely made up) airline credit card … Heads up: We talk about credit card offers that may no longer be available as you listen to or watch this episode of the podcast.  Show Notes Head to https://cozyearth.com and use code THRIFTY for up to 20% off! Watch us on YouTube! Join the conversation! Sign up for the free Thrifty Traveler Podcast Slack community today. 00:00 - A word from our friends at Cozy Earth! 00:58 - A quick recap of our live show! 03:18 - Lauren welcomes us back from Sevilla, Spain 03:43 - Chase Sapphire Preferred: The best sign-up bonus … ever? 10:43 - CLEAR prices are up & PreCheck lines may get longer 15:38 - A word from our sponsor: Cozy Earth! 16:38 - A slew of new credit card bonus offers 23:36 - What’s with all these huge offers at once? 30:28 - And what’s going on with Amex’s “As High As” offers? 32:23 - Showing off our new Shorty Award! 33:38 - A listener asks: Getting around Chase’s 5/24 rule & reconsideration 36:43 - What we do after opening a new credit card Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

SkyTeam and Star Alliance might seem like boring corporate brands, but understanding airline alliances - and how to use them to your advantage - is absolutely critical for leveling up your travels. That’s why the guys devote an the hour-long to breaking down alliances: what they are, why you should care, some of the best redemptions using those alliances, and even coming up with their own alliance … headed up by Gunnar’s namesake, “Gunair.”  Head to https://cozyearth.com and use code THRIFTY for up to 20% off! Show Notes Watch us on YouTube! Join the conversation! Sign up for the free Thrifty Traveler Podcast Slack community today. 00:00 - A word from our sponsor, Cozy Earth! 01:00 - Gunair starts an airline alliance 02:33 - Kyle’s Thailand trip,  made possible by alliances 06:00 - Jen welcomes us back from Meteora, Greece! 06:40 - Breaking down the alliances: Star Alliance, SkyTeam & Oneworld 26:15 - What is the (funky) fourth airline alliance?  34:50 - Our favorite airline alliance is… 38:30 - A word from our sponsor, Cozy Earth! 39:00 - The power of airline alliances: Our favorite redemptions 55:00 - Is it really this easy to use points and miles with partners? 58:45 - A listener asks: Why don’t more airlines charge for carry-ons? 01:01:30 - On the spot: If you could add an airline to any alliance, what would you do? Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The single-best travel credit card - the one we recommend most, especially for beginners - somehow just got even better. Chase just unveiled some shockingly positive changes this week that merited a bonus podcast. We break down all the good news, a few bad bits, and ask the question: Why is Chase doing this? Show Notes Watch us on YouTube! The Thrifty Traveler Podcast is going LIVE: Join us Friday, June 12 in Minneapolis! Buy your tickets now! Join the conversation! Sign up for the free Thrifty Traveler Podcast Slack community today. 00:00 - When we first opened our Chase Sapphire Preferred cards 01:34 - Danielle from Greensboro (GSO) introduces the show 03:00 - The new perks on the Chase Sapphire Preferred we love 12:00 - The changes to the card we hate (ahem, Hyatt …) 17:38 - Join the Thrifty Traveler Podcast Slack Community today! 18:30 - What on earth is Chase doing here?  23:35 - Where does this card rank among all travel rewards card? 24:40 - Will there be another big welcome offer? 25:10 - Kyle’s best Chase Ultimate Rewards redemption Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Gunnar is back from Italy (and he’s completely insufferable about it …), so the guys break down his trip through Rome and beyond and how he booked some amazing stays - via Hilton. Plus, they recap some big news around Bilt 2.0, woes getting into Europe, a handy new tool for using your credit card perks, and the monumental news … about an airport Taco Bell. Show Notes Thank you to our sponsor, Bilt Rewards! Earn points on rent and make your entire neighborhood more rewarding with Bilt. Sign up at joinbilt.com/thrifty.  Watch us on YouTube! Join the conversation! Sign up for the free Thrifty Traveler Podcast Slack community today. 00:00 - Kyle goes whale-watching (?) in Minnesota 02:25 - Jake welcomes us back from the Six Senses Kyoto 03:00 - Fun news: Join the Thrifty Traveler Podcast Slack Community! 04:10 - Bilt 2.0 gets grilled by a top Democratic lawmaker 08:02 - Europe’s Entry/Exit system issues 12:12 - Our all new credit card benefit tracker! 15:50 - RIP to the best Amex airline fee credit workaround 20:10 - Airlines are over-charging you for seat upgrades 24:55 - 1-month warning for the SkyMiles credit card snack benefit 26:50 - Live Más: Taco Bell Cantina opens at DEN 30:16 - Thanks to our sponsor, Bilt Rewards! 31:27 - Recapping Gunnar’s Hilton-and-SLH-fueled Italian vacay 51:00 - Revisiting our Hilton vs. Hyatt debate 57:40 - A listener asks: What’s it worth to fly Emirates First Class? 01:02:00 - On the Spot: Regional cuisine in airports Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s a Brave (?) New World … of Hyatt. The hotel chain (almost) everybody loves officially brought down the hammer with some sweeping and painful changes to its award program. So with Gunnar overseas - probably crying into his Italian red wine - Nick joins Kyle to delve deep into the data behind what’s changed: the good, the bad, and the ugly. And yes, there is good news here. Plus, they try to answer the most important question: What does this mean now for Hyatt and your transferable credit card points? Thanks to Bellroy for sponsoring this episode! Get 10% off your next great Bellroy travel bag with our special link! Watch us on YouTube! 01:20 - Nick fills in to catch you up on Hyatt 06:13 - Cali & Waverly welcome us back from a Hyatt in Hawaii!  08:00 - The nuts & bolts of Hyatt’s big changes 10:15 - Analyzing 1,200+ Hyatt properties, before & after… 12:24 - Our big-picture takeaways 15:35 - How Hyatt handled the changeover 18:40 - The big winners in the new World of Hyatt 22:46 - & the bigger losers 31:38 - Get your tickets for our live podcast event now! 32:38 - Big surprises: Availability & top-priced nights 34:56 - What’s next? Will this get worse?  36:35 - An introspective conversation about hotels 40:51 - What to do to maximize your Hyatt points now 44:58 - & what to do with your transferable points 48:46 - Helping Jessica pick the right hotel booking 52:04 - On the Spot: Nick’s Hyatt hotel that got away Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Gunnar and Kyle have already made fools of themselves with their most embarrassing travel mistakes. Now it’s your turn in the spotlight. After a deluge of emails, the guys share your big mishaps and goofs … plus a few more of their own, for good measure. What have we learned? Check your dates and reservations closely, don’t book a 10-hour bus ride in Cambodia, and definitely don’t eat nickels. Watch us on YouTube! 00:00 - Turning the mirror on your big, embarrassing travel mistakes 01:15 - But first, Gunnar has another one 04:20 - Kurt welcomes back the show from Emirates’ spa 05:18 - Watching Heated Rivalry at 35,000 feet 08:01 - Bryan’s booking blunder to Paris 09:28 - How Liz’s boyfriend won the hotel lottery in London 11:04 - Peter’s too-close connection in Madrid 13:29 - Gunnar coins “The Trojan Rule” 13:56 - Travis & his trash bag in Costa Rica 15:58 - Learn from Gauri’s husband: Double-check your wallet 18:03 - Claudia’s flipped dates & a miracle in Ireland  20:32 - Rick roasts his boneheaded son-in-law 21:47 - Gunnar’s big revelation 23:40 - Buy your tickets for The Thrifty Traveler Podcast … Live! 24:28 - Jon got too thrifty in Cambodia 26:17 - Jennifer forgot to check her schedule 29:40 - Dana goes full “sicko” after a booking error 31:45 - Ranking Rachel’s 6 mistakes 35:06 - Katie’s grueling & traumatic road trip 38:30 - Learn from Nita: Souvenir passport stamps are a no 40:48 - Melissa & her hubby doubled down 45:11 - On the spot: The mistakes Kyle fears most 48:01 - Dan shares his favorite Gunnar gem Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We know, we know: The flight prices have gotten rough out there, travelers … but not everywhere. So on this week’s pod, Gunnar and Kyle devote the show to spelling out the quintessential steps to take to find cheaper fares this summer, fall, and beyond. Plus, some exciting news about our (now officially award-winning!!!) show, an update on Hyatt’s dastardly deeds, and perhaps the strangest hotel-restaurant collab nobody asked for. Thanks to Cozy Earth for sponsoring this episode! Head to https://cozyearth.com and use code THRIFTY for up to 20% off! Watch us on YouTube! 01:02 - Are the guys still gettin’ booksy? 03:54 - Michelle welcomes us back from Taipei! 04:30 - Something Hot: We won the Shorty Award + live show updates! 10:15 - Something Cold: Hyatt drops the hammer 15:29 - Something Stupid: Room service … from Applebees? 18:29 - A word from our sponsor, Cozy Earth 22:41 - Why Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Saturdays are key 19:28 - The Extra Mile: How we’re finding cheaper fares now 20:25 - The #1 tool to save on travel: Be flexible with your dates 23:43 - Why Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Saturdays are key 25:45 - #2: Use those points! 27:59 - #3: & use partner award programs for big savings 29:56 - #4: Do some inventory & maximize your travel card credits 33:10 - #5: Follow the deal, use Google Flights Explore & “unplan” your trip 36:03 - #6: Book earlier (or much later) than normal 40:32 - Heelys in the airport & the “Bevledge” on the plane 43:00 - A listener asks about when positioning flights go wrong 46:03 - Kyle’s on the spot about his upcoming trip to Tokyo Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s the episode where we all get to be jealous of Kyle’s trip to Thailand. Luckily, he tells us how to book it and why his inkling to avoid using points and miles (for part of it) made the trip that much better. Plus, the guys make a bold prediction about airfare, wonder if the lounge overcrowding problem is solved, and ask the question: are hotel points and status even worth it anymore? Thank you to our sponsor, Bilt Rewards! Earn points on rent and make your entire neighborhood more rewarding with Bilt. Sign up at joinbilt.com/thrifty.  Watch us on YouTube! 00:00 - Post-trip clarity: Getting home from vacation 02:18 - Kyle welcomes us back from the pool in Thailand 02:45 - Are we heading for an airfare cliff? 10:00 - SkyMiles & Airbnb: More earnings, weird rules 12:20 - Points & miles rates aren’t rising with airfare 14:38 - United cardholder discounts are getting better 18:30 - Why Jackson is souring on hotel loyalty 21:40 - Is the lounge overcrowding problem solved? 27:25 - A word from our sponsor: Bilt Rewards!  28:40 - Everything about Koh Kood in Thailand 37:00 - Kyle’s Thailand trip logistics: Flights, hotels, Hong Kong & more 45:14 - Vote for our live podcast topic at thriftytraveler.com/vote!  46:00 - A listener asks: Should you avoid London due to high fees? 49:00 - What is Gunnar’s Koh Kood?  Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week, we go in-depth on Delta One business class from a person who is too young to know this much about flying Delta’s premier product around the world. Thrifty Traveler’s Kyle Thomas joins the show to talk about how he earned more than a million points and miles as a college student. We break down all the best Delta One deals, how to book them, and also touch on some news about credit card offers and wonder why it is we got so wistful about Spirit’s demise? Thanks to Cozy Earth for sponsoring today's episode! Head to https://cozyearth.com and use code THRIFTY for up to 20% off! Watch us on YouTube! 00:00 - Cool Kyle earning a million points as a college student 02:17 - Kyle welcomes us back from the Great Barrier Reef! 03:30 - Start, Bench, Cut: 3 new credit card offers to know 10:20 - Getting wistful about the official end of Spirit Airlines 15:13 - Thanks to our sponsor Cozy Earth! 16:10 - Flying Delta One to Tokyo, Seoul, Paris, Brisbane, and more 17:15 - The Delta One experience at check-in & the lounge 18:50 - Making sense of Delta’s different Delta One seats (Always use Aerolopa) 23:15 - Delta’s new suites are coming and other upgrades 26:20 - What it’s like onboard Delta One – meals & service 32:10 - The best ways to book Delta One 36:40 - Are Delta One bookings through partners officially dead?  38:30 - The Best Delta Skymiles deals we’ve sent in 2026 (so far!) 41:00 - Thrifty Traveler Premium Destination Filters 43:20 - How to earn a million points as a college student 51:15 - Kyle’s Australia trip: Qantas, scuba certification, and more 54:00 - Helping worried listeners with their Europe trips 58:00 - Kyle’s 23 countries in 23 years adventure 59:20 - What would Gunnar do with a million miles? Catch Kyle’s brand new Delta One Review to Brisbane on YouTube! Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thrifty Traveler Co-Founder Nick Serati helps us answer a pressing points and miles question: Is Chase still the most important travel rewards program? After running the numbers, he’s changed his tune about Chase and wonders if newcomer Bilt has something to do with it. Plus, we talk about a potential government-owned Spirit Airlines, some devaluations, and the White Lotus choosing Hyatt! Plus, how to use points and miles on golf and a hilarious new travel mistake story. Thanks to Surfshark for sponsoring this week’s episode! Go to https://surfshark.com/thrifty4 or use code THRIFTY4 at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN! Watch us on YouTube! 00:00 - Nick’s travel mistake: A $600 shirt in Vegas 04:45 - Nick’s daughter Elin introduces the show from Sedona! 05:15 - Thanks to our sponsor Surfshark VPN! 06:45 - The Hyatt Lotus & how to book it 10:20 - LifeMiles and Aeroplan hike award rates 15:55 - Something Stupid: A government-owned Spirit? 21:40 - Is Chase Still the King of Travel Rewards? 25:40 - The 5/24 rule & how Chase became king 29:15 - The Chase Sapphire Reserve isn’t helping 32:15 - Is Bilt’s complicated system worth it?  40:00 - Is the Bilt Palladium Card right for Gunnar?  46:00 - Is Chase still king? Our verdict 48:15 - A listener’s lap infant conundrum 52:30 - How to use points and miles on golf trips Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s amazing how a pair of headphones, a pillow, or a carry-on bag can make or break your trip. That’s why we’re going through all of our favorite travel gear in this week’s special bonus episode. The list includes strollers, luggage, eye masks, neck pillows, earplugs, and more. Plus, we help a listener use his Capital One miles, and the guys answer: What’s the one piece of travel gear you want if money (or shame) were no object?  Watch us on YouTube! 00:00 - Gunnar’s travel etiquette proposal 03:06 - Jeff and Angie at the Alila Ventana Big Sur welcome us to the show! 04:15 - Gunnar’s Half-Day Garment Duffel Bag 06:30 - Kyle’s headphones and AirFly adapter 08:12 - Kasey’s headphones, backpack, and toiletry kit 10:10 - Gunnar’s Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 11:30 - Tracey’s MiFold Booster Seat 13:15 - Kyle’s Tumi Backpack 16:10 - Join us at the Thrifty Traveler Podcast … Live on June 12! 17:10 - Gunnar’s Mzoo Eye Mask and Turtl Pillow 20:20 - Katie’s Bose Quiet Comfort Headphones 22:35 - Kyle’s Epicka adapter … and the new, better one from Anker 25:50 - Gunnar’s BabyJogger travel stroller 28:05 - Kyle’s pill and contact case and Mack’s earplugs 31:10 - Jon’s Ostrich Pillow 33:40 - What would you do with 125,000 Capital One Miles? 37:55 - Your dream piece of travel gear Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Not everything is as easy as travel and points and miles influencers make it look. Have you ever wondered, “How are these people earning all of these points?” Or, “How are these people taking so many business class flights?” They’re good questions, because people in the travel world (including sometimes us) haven’t always been so forthcoming about some of the secret strategies they use to travel like they do. Join us as we unveil them all! Show Notes Thanks to Surfshark for sponsoring this week’s episode! Go to https://surfshark.com/thrifty4 or use code THRIFTY4 at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN! Thank you to our sponsor, Bilt Rewards! Earn points on rent and make your entire neighborhood more rewarding with Bilt. Sign up at joinbilt.com/thrifty.  Watch us on YouTube! 00:00 - What it’s like to be a travel professional 03:10 - Melissa from Cappadocia, Turkiye, introduces the show! 05:10 - Quarterly airfare check-in: Where to find cheap flights 11:35 - Where not to find cheap flights right now 16:00 - Listener Question: How are influencers earning all these points? 20:30 - The dirty little secrets of points and miles 52:00 - On the Spot: What can we do better?  Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We’re shining a spotlight on baggage (both travel and emotional …) this week as airlines raised bag fees almost in unison. So the guys talk through what happened, why, and - most importantly - what you can do to avoid paying those higher fees altogether. Plus, we dig into some Delta One news, break down a recent business class mistake fare, and sift through some (ridiculous) United/American merger chatter. Thanks to Surfshark for sponsoring this week’s episode! Go to https://surfshark.com/thrifty4 or use code THRIFTY4 at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN! Watch us on YouTube! 00:00 - “Pitiful & Pathetic:” Feedback on the travel mistakes episode 04:05 - Nate, Mo, & Koko introduce the show from New Zealand! 04:50 - $410 business class fares to Europe: A mistake fare breakdown 12:20 - Translating Delta CEO’s statements about rising airfare 17:30 - New Delta One Suites & a new Delta One Lounge at MSP 22:55 - United’s (gross) new basic business class tickets 25:20 - Something Stupid: United & American merger murmurs 29:08 - Baggage fees are up … but why? 34:35 - How to avoid baggage fees 44:40- Listener Question: Would you fly east to Asia?  47:40 - On the spot: What is Kyle’s favorite piece of baggage? Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Travel isn’t always perfect and we certainly aren’t either. This week on the show, Gunnar and Kyle cop to the worst travel mistakes they’ve made over the year. From rehashing Gunnar’s Avianca last name fiasco to entering birthdates wrong to over-scheduling trips, getting fleeced at an expensive restaurant, and even timing bathroom breaks on the road, the guys have screwed up a lot over the years. Join us as we discredit, debase, and humiliate ourselves!  Watch us on YouTube! 00:00 - What’s the biggest mistake travelers make? 02:50 - Sylvia welcomes us to the show from Zion National Park 05:15 - The Gunnar Olson Olson Olson story 07:10 - Not checking airfare from more than one airport 09:20 - Think before you swipe: Using the wrong card to book flights 11:55 - Over-scheduling travel – Kyle’s slightly-too-much trip 14:00 - Not paying attention to open hours 16:15 - Birthday fiascos and infant reservations: Don’t wait until the airport! 19:40 - Getting a ski trip shuttered by the weather 22:30 - A word from our sponsor: Don’t miss the next great flight deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium 24:20 - Letting e-credits expire 26:15 - Leaving something in the overhead bin 28:30 - Swiping the same old credit card 30:40 - Check the menu: A crazy expensive meal in Singapore 32:35 - The pre-boarding bathroom break 34:40 - A listener asks: Why the “Yo?” 36:12 - Another listener asks: More on our rebooking strategy 43:05 - The biggest mistake Gunnar has made at Thrifty Traveler Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The news has been relentless to kick off the spring, so the guys spend the show tackling a dozen different stories. There’s an update on those awful TSA lines, JetBlue already raised  its baggage fees, and Air France/KLM just raised surcharges on award tickets. We also look into United’s splashy new “Relax Row” seats, discuss why American is reversing course on seatback screens, and throw out some quick takes on news like rule changes around Delta’s 20-minute baggage guarantee. Plus, a listener dubs Gunnar “The Redheaded Clown.” Brutal. Watch us on YouTube! 00:00 - When do you start packing for a trip?  01:43 - Rosie’s daughter introduces the show from Costa Rica! 02:20 - We’re a finalist for the 2026 Shorty Awards! Vote now at thriftytraveler.com/vote 03:26 - Are we out of the woods with TSA issues? 06:40 - JetBlue raises baggage fees, when will the other airlines follow? 09:15 - Womp, womp: Flying Blue raises fuel surcharges on award tickets 12:15 - United’s buzzy new Relax Row – would we book it?  16:50 - American wants to reinstall seatback screens 20:40 - Two new nonstop routes to the Philippines?! 23:25 - A word from our sponsor (us): Sign up for the Extra Mile newsletter today!  24:00 - Delta’s 2,500 bonus SkyMiles bags on time rule change 23:35 - Delta inks new inflight Wi-Fi deal with Amazon 27:00 - We love Flighty’s new update 28:35 - Amex ditches Saks, adds ChatGPT credits 30:20 - Attention, skiers: Epic and Ikon passes are now on sale 32:15 - Buying MLB tickets with Capital One miles is back 33:40 - What seat on the plane is best for your skin? 36:00 - Gunnar (finally) gets roasted in the reviews 38:15 - On the spot: Start, bench or cut Delta’s new transpacific routes? Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Gunnar is back from a rain-soaked trip to Hawaii to talk about oil prices, airfare, and what’s next for flight prices - plus, an update on what’s happening at TSA checkpoints across the country as the partial government shutdown drags on. But Gunnar can’t stop talking about his vacation, so he gives a review of Hawaiian Airlines First Class, reveals his grand theory of travel, and the guys pitch a visit to Minneapolis for the Thrifty Traveler Podcast Live Show in June! The Thrifty Traveler Podcast is going LIVE: Join us Friday, June 12 in Minneapolis! Buy your tickets now! Thanks to our sponsor, Saily! Download Saily in your app store - use our code THRIFTY at checkout to get an exclusive 15% off your first purchase  https://saily.com/thrifty 🌍 Watch us on YouTube! 00:00 - Recapping Gunnar’s trip to Hawaii 04:40 - Marcus welcomes us back to the show from Cabo 05:00 - A review of Hawaiian’s fancy first class suites 10:32 - Gunnar’s Grand Theory of Travel 14:45 - TSA News: Lines, ICE agents & more 20:12 - A word from our sponsor: Travel abroad with an eSim from Saily! 21:25 - Oil prices (and airfare) are going up. What’s next? 34:30 - What you should do now & where to find deals 45:50 - Gunnar gets spotted & pitching Minneapolis 52:20 - On the Spot: What’s the most you’ve paid for a flight? Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Against all odds, our baby - this humble travel podcast - is one year old! So the guys are celebrating the best way they know how: by turning the show over to you listeners for another mailbag episode. What’s the best way to book a business class seat all the way to Australia - or Hawaii? Why do airlines charge more per ticket for more passengers? How do we rack up more points? Plus, we’ve got huge news about the show that at least four of you have been waiting for… The Thrifty Traveler Podcast is going LIVE: Join us Friday, June 12 in Minneapolis! Buy your tickets now! Thanks to our sponsor, Saily! Download Saily in your app store - use our code THRIFTY at checkout to get an exclusive 15% off your first purchase  https://saily.com/thrifty 🌍 Watch us on YouTube! 0:00 - Celebrating one year of the pod & our sunscreen strategies 05:41 - Mike welcomes us to the show from the Milford Sound 06:10 - Big news: Buy your tickets for the TT Podcast Live in June! 07:50 - What’s the key to booking biz class awards to Australia? 12:50 - How to rack up more points day to day 18:51 - The best lie-flat seats you can fly to Hawaii on points 22:22 - Why do more passengers = higher fares? 26:30 - And why we love beating the airlines at their silly games 27:15 - Strategies & best bets for cheap upgrades 31:37 - A word from our sponsor: Travel abroad with an eSim from Saily! 32:50 - How we track price drops and deals to rebook & save more 35:57 - And how to cancel your first flight for free 39:09 - Points to earn & lie-flat options to Europe for the family 42:29 - Would we ever use travel agents?  45:39 - An amazing sighting in the Delta Sky Club 47:59 - On the spot: A beautiful proposal … at the O’Hare Chili’s   Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sure, you can earn and redeem SkyMiles and Rapid Rewards points to your heart’s content. We won’t stop you. But it’s the next level of points and miles programs that help you save even more and turn regular travelers into “sickos” like us. So the guys devote the show to spelling out five underrated airline mileage programs even everyday travelers can use to maximize their credit card points. Plus, a listener suggests a new nickname for fans of the show (there are dozens of you, we swear!) and Gunnar puts his all-time favorite airline programs on the Olympic podium.  Watch us on YouTube! 00:00 - Our “gateway drug” into points & miles  01:55 - TG welcomes us back to the show from snowy Niseko, Japan 03:45 - What airline programs are actually getting better?  06:50 - And which are overrated?  11:10 - A word from our sponsor: Sign up for our Extra Mile Newsletter 11:45 - Framing a discussion on top five “underrated” airline programs 15:10 - #1: Avios … but maybe not the one you’re thinking of 23:20 - #2: A newcomer full of sweet spots 32:05 - #3: Another quirky Japanese program loaded with value 40:10 - #4: The popular SkyTeam program that’s not rated high enough 47:30 - #5: The U.S. airline with the best miles 55:25 - Listener Question: “Thrifties” & changing loyalty numbers on bookings 59:50 - On the Spot: What’s your airline mileage program podium Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week, we round up all the recent travel news that’s fit to podcast! That includes Kyle’s experience with CLEAR’s (honestly amazing) new e-gates, what United’s up to with its credit card moves, a shocking-but-welcome move to require headphones onboard, Southwest’s carry-on bag problems literally everyone should have seen coming, hot and cold news from Avios, and much more! Plus, we help a listener get a refund and Gunnar declares whether he’ll ever fly Southwest again.  Thank you to our sponsor Bilt Rewards! Earn points on rent and make your entire neighborhood more rewarding with Bilt. Sign-up at joinbilt.com/thrifty.  Watch us on YouTube! 00:00 - Kyle’s weekend in Phoenix & using CLEAR’s new e-gates 03:35 - Richard from Florida welcomes us back to the show! 04:00 - United’s credit card changes make them essential 09:55 - Hallelujah: United mandates headphones onboard 12:45 - Hot and Cold in the Avios program: A new transfer bonus & new rules 18:42 - Another way to earn JAL miles 23:45 - A word from our sponsor Bilt Rewards 24:55 - Southwest makes seating, boarding, and baggage adjustments 29:45 - A new Southwest lounge at AUS?  31:38 - Updates from the Middle East and Puerto Vallarta 38:05 - Combined Resy & Tock restaurant list turns heads 41:10 - A sweet new Capital One Shopping promo 43:25 - Can you get refunded for a seat upgrade bought with cash? 46:55 - On the Spot: Would Gunnar ever fly Southwest again? Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kyle and Gunnar are joined by Thrifty Traveler Chief Flight Deal Analyst (and Domino’s elite member) Jon Shallbetter, who helps them put the 37 combined business class seats they’ve flown into tiers so you can tell what flights are worth your points and which ones may not be. From the best of the best to the experiences that are missing something to the flights that were flat-out forgettable, the guys break it all down, Qsuites to Icelandair and everything in between. Plus, they admit what they haven’t flown and Kyle and Jon reflect on their (romantic?) dinner in Qatar First Class.  Watch us on YouTube! 00:00 - Why it’s always surreal to fly business class 02:25 - Our flight deal guru Jon introduces the show! 02:45 - Tier 1: The best of the best 10:30 - Tier 2: Outstanding business classes 22:30 - Tier 3: Good, but missing something 32:42 - Sign up for Thrifty Traveler Premium to fly biz class for less! 35:20 - Tier 4: The Almost good 44:20 - Tier 5: Disappointing business class flights 52:23 - On the Spot: Jon & Kyle’s romantic Qatar First Class flight Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We’re all too accustomed to hotels and airlines making negative changes, but Hyatt genuinely broke our hearts this week. So Gunnar and Kyle devote the show to diving into some massive changes on tap for what is (or perhaps was?) the most popular and valuable hotel points program. We’re talking nasty award rate increases, confusing pricing systems, a few silver linings, and what you should do before the hammer falls. Plus, Gunnar reviews his experience on the new (& improved?) Southwest Airlines, plus they help a listener navigate the dreaded  Chase 5/24 credit card rule. Watch us on YouTube! 00:00 - Gunnar’s review of the “new” Southwest  03:20 - Welcome back … from the Park Hyatt Tokyo!  04:30 - The “Goat Rodeo” with TSA PreCheck and Global Entry  10:30 - Puerto Vallarta chaos & what to do about your upcoming Mexico trip 15:25 - A word from our sponsor: Sign up for The Extra Mile Newsletter today! 16:14 - World of Hyatt’s positively nasty new award chart changes 35:00 - Listener Question: How far above “5/24” should you go?  40:20 - On the Spot: How 2 hockey fans celebrated a golden weekend Send us your “Welcome Back to the Thrifty Traveler Podcast” video! Keep it short, tell us who you are and where you are, and say “Welcome Back to the Thrifty Traveler Podcast.” Then, upload it to thriftytraveler.com/voicemail so we can feature your video on the show!  Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How do we find flight deals? How do you start a travel business? What’s next for Thrifty Traveler? For episode 50 of the show, we bring on Founder and CEO Jared Kamrowski to show how the Thrifty Traveler sausage is made! Plus, Jared reacts to some new Delta routes to Hawaii, discusses the reality of points and miles availability, and helps a listener plan their first Europe trip. Send us your “Welcome Back” video at ThriftyTraveler.com/Voicemail.Watch us on YouTube!00:00 - Thrifty Traveler’s Founder & CEO gets Booksy, too!03:30 - Timmy from Santa Monica welcomes us to the show! 04:15 - Delta’s new Hawaii routes – and their crappy biz class seats08:05 - Traveler pain points: The reality of availability12:55 - Sign up for The Extra Mile Newsletter today! 14:07 - A brief history of Thrifty Traveler18:10 - The flight deal that started it all (& crashed the site)22:00 - The evolution of Thrifty Traveler26:45 - How do we find Thrifty Traveler Premium flight deals31:00 - Tracking changes over the years at Thrifty Traveler36:00 - What’s next for Thrifty Traveler – where’s the future of travel going?39:45 - Helping a listener plan a (first-time!) Thanksgiving Europe trip for four44:45 - Jared plays the airport code initials game45:55 - What episode does our boss want us to do next?Produced and edited by Sylvia ThomasVideo editing by Kyle ThomasShow music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kyle is back from Costa Rica where he was breaking news from the beach! So the guys get caught up on all the latest travel news including a little-known Delta credit card perk he unearthed, some new credit card offers and rumors, some good news for travelers who love cheaper fares to Europe (but bad news for airlines) this summer, and more! Plus, a listener challenges our recent take … and the guys come up with a new bit. Yes, another one.Thank you to our sponsor Bilt Rewards! Earn points on rent and make your entire neighborhood more rewarding with Bilt. Sign-up at joinbilt.com/thrifty. Watch us on YouTube!00:00 - Recapping Kyle’s Costa Rica trip02:30 - Brian kicks off the show from Kenya03:25 - Summer travel demand to Europe is dropping … and we love it10:00 - A PSA to book (or re-book) your spring break flights13:30 - Introducing our new daily (and free!) Extra Mile newsletter15:35 - New Delta SkyMiles card sign-up offers …a nd upgrade offers19:40 - Sky Club visits reset – plus our favorite way to add a few extras22:00 - Kyle discovers the sneaky SkyMiles card premium snack perk24:47 - A word from our sponsor: Bilt Rewards25:50 - Rumors swirl about a souped-up Capital One dining card: The Savor X29:05 - Boo: The Amex Platinum increased its spend requirement by 50%31:25 - A sweet transfer bonus to Japan Airlines from Capital One34:00 - Reviewing the Park Hyatt London River Thames36:20 - Listener Question: Why no love for the Bilt Palladium Card (& our “U-Turn”)42:10 - On the Spot: What are your airport code initials?Send us your “Welcome Back to the Thrifty Traveler Podcast” video! Keep it short, tell us who you are and where you are, and say “Welcome Back to the Thrifty Traveler Podcast.” Then, upload it to thriftytraveler.com/voicemail so we can feature your video on the show! Produced and edited by Sylvia ThomasVideo editing by Kyle ThomasShow music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

People with status are often very loud about it (we’re looking at you Delta Medallions and Hyatt Globalists), but chasing airline and hotel loyalty isn’t smart for most travelers. It’s something we’re decidedly out on in 2026 and beyond. In “These Bros Ain’t Loyal”, we’re laying out the case against chasing status by identifying who status is for, and why it’s not the best way to travel more for less. Watch us on YouTube!00:00 - What should we call this episode?01:55 - John Melson introduces the show03:00 - The best airline & hotel statuses07:15 - The worst airline & hotel statuses11:25 - Thrifty Traveler Premium Flight Deal Quiz!13:44 - Why we’re out on travel loyalty22:30 - Who is loyalty for?26:15 - Who is travel “free agency” for? 28:45 - How to get status perks without status37:45 - Listener Question: What about credit card points loyalty?41:30 - On the Spot: Gunnar’s 2027 listProduced and edited by Sylvia ThomasVideo editing by Kyle ThomasShow music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you want to take your travels to the next level (and who doesn’t?), it’s not about what you do before booking a flight – it’s what you do after that matters most. So Gunnar and Kyle are diving in on this week’s pod, spelling out the five crucial steps they take after booking each and every flight to ensure they get the best deal and set themselves up for success. Plus, the guys got a little “booksy,” discuss a new airline partnership that’s piqued their interest, and help out a traveler planning a trip to Japan. Thank you to our sponsor Bilt Rewards! Earn points on rent and make your entire neighborhood more rewarding with Bilt. Sign-up at joinbilt.com/thrifty.  Watch us on YouTube! 00:00 - Gunnar & Kyle’s recent (fancy) lie-flat bookings 02:39 - Roger introduces the show from Komodo, Indonesia! 03:35 - Something Hot: The new American & Aer Lingus partnership 08:00 - Something Hotter: New & improved travel credit card tracking 11:15 - A word from our sponsor: Bilt Rewards 12:30 - The 5 Things We Do After Booking a Flight 12:35 - 1st: Forward your trip to TripIt – an essential travel tool 16:05 - 2nd: Clean-up & manage your booking 19:15 - 3rd: Set up Google Flights price alerts and award tracking 28:10 - 4th: A quick look at major logistics (using the 24-hour rule!) 31:00 - 5th: Asking your wife, requesting PTO and other “life stuff” 37:00 - Listener Question: A mea culpa & how to approach booking a Japan trip 43:40 - On the Spot: Kyle’s Cathay Pacific First Class Lounge gameplan Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas Video editing by Kyle Thomas Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A year ago, we saw signs award travel was on the upswing … but in 2026, we’re not so sure. Airlines’ constant tweaks to their mileage programs - not just for the rates they charge, but who can even book - have us posing the question: Is the points party ending? Are we on a sinking ship? Not to get too negative, but it’s time for a reality check. So Kyle and Gunnar break down the new trends shaping award travel while offering some hope and guidance for travelers worried about their rewards.  Watch us on YouTube!00:00 - What deals are on our "Endangered Redemptions” list? 03:05 - Kyle from a mountaintop & Gunnar’s roast review challenge04:15 - The road ahead in points and miles: This is more than “Pointsflation”07:20 - Are partner redemptions on their way out? 12:30 - What is United doing with their credit cards? 17:45 - Are U.S. travelers getting boxed out?24:00 - (Annoying) transfer ratios are shifting, too27:45 - A word from us: Stay on top of your points & miles with The Extra Mile Newsletter28:15 - What’s driving the shift in award travel? 33:00 - Are we being too negative? 36:30 - The great (& new) redemption opportunities out there42:00 - How to fight back against the changing award travel landscape44:28 - Real talk: Is the points party over? 46:40 - Listener Question: How many points should you hoard?50:40 - On the Spot: The redemption that got awayProduced and edited by Sylvia ThomasVideo editing by Kyle ThomasShow music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

New year, new you, new travel card strategy? With the help of an extra special guest - TT co-founder Nick Serati - the guys answer the age-old question: What’s in our wallets? They tackle rising annual fees, Bilt’s botched rollout, and other travel credit card trends shaping the year ahead. Plus, Gunnar recaps a romantic hot air balloon ride and the guys help a listener plan a card strategy around taking two trips to Europe with her best friend.Watch us on YouTube!00:00 - What’s our “desert island” card - the last one we’d give up?02:13 - A special shout out from a hot air balloon near Mexico City04:45 - What’s in our wallets?23:15 - Something cold: Annual fees are going up28:15 - Something colder: Bilt fumbles its 2.0 rollout39:03 - A word from our sponsor: CardPilot, the best way to pick a credit card40:00 - What cards should you get in 2026?48:00 - Listener Question: Cards for Eurotrips51:20 - The perfect 2-card combo52:20 - On the Spot: Our physical walletsProduced and edited by Sylvia ThomasVideo editing by Kyle ThomasShow music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Watch us on YouTube!00:00 - About Gunnar’s controversial “Chicago-O’Hare is good” take…02:55 - Are airlines ditching higher one-way fares for international flights? 12:45 - Why Allegiant’s surprise acquisition of Sun Country matters23:15 - Bilt 2.0 is here, with good and bad news30:00 - A word from our sponsor: us! Get Thrifty Traveler Premium today33:10 - American Airlines (kinda) launches free Wi-Fi34:10 - No mileage or status on AA basic economy tickets35:10 - No status changes for American this year, but is bad news ahead?36:20 - Hawaiian Airlines’ big plans for aircraft upgrades and a fancy new Honolulu lounge38:40 - The next Capital One Lounge: Charlotte (CLT)40:15 - Delta orders 787 Dreamliners 42:20 - Listener Question: What to do if you’re “product-swapped”? 46:10 - On the Spot: What does Kyle tell people he does for a living? Produced and edited by Sylvia ThomasVideo editing by Kyle ThomasShow music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join us for a special bonus episode as Gunnar recaps his recent trip to Finnish Laplan. Gunnar walks through his exceptional experience in Finnair Business Class, some lessons learned flying with his infant daughter overseas for the first time, and he gushes about the stunning quiet, serenity, and “cozy-maxing” of Northern Finland. Plus, he recounts an overwhelming day at Santa Claus Village and talked about what he would do differently next time around. Join us for a trip to the North Pole!Watch us on YouTube!Read our full breakdown of the trip on our website, including links and more details!00:00 - Why should (or shouldn’t) someone take a trip to Finnish Lapland?02:30 - Finnair Business Class: How to book it & what it’s like14:30 - A stopover in Helsinki: Hotel Kamp and Christmas markets17:30 - Flying to the Arctic Circle’s Ivalo & experiencing polar night20:00 - A special Airbnb stay on Lake Inari & and watching the Northern Lights from a hot tub22:45 - Inari: the Janiskoski bridge hike, Sami Museum & a day trip to Saariselka26:00 - Rovaniemi: the capital of Lapland with another lovely Airbnb stay30:00 - Santa Claus Village: an overwhelming experience & what Gunnar would do differently next time. 35:00 - Ice skating on frozen Lake Inari!37:00 - Northern Lights travel & is Finland really that cold?40:30 - On the Spot: One insight Gunnar will take forward in his travelsProduced and edited by Sylvia ThomasVideo editing by Kyle ThomasShow music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s time to ratchet things up on the podcast this week. The guys have been too calm. This week on the pod, Gunnar and Kyle unleash their hottest travel takes and their biggest pet peeves in what turns into a fiery discussion. Why is Gunnar defending a loathed airport? What is Kyle’s case against points and miles? What’s the beef with the NFL? Plus they hate on speakerphone abusers, slow deplaners, and so much more. It’s cheaper than therapy, but it’s clear Gunnar needs both…Thanks to HotelSlash for sponsoring this episode of the show! Try it out today: Use promo code THRIFTYTRAVELER for a free 90-day trial – plus, get $20 off your first prepaid booking!Watch us on YouTube!00:00 - A half-baked hot take right off the bat03:00 - Pet Peeves: Getting worked up about casual deplaning, TSA line procrastinators, “free” travel, speakerphones, and more. 15:14 - A word from our sponsor: HotelSlash, the easiest way to book a cheaper hotel stay & rebook when prices drop16:10 - Hot Takes: Biz class doors, bad Airbnbs, fish on a plane, in defense of CLEAR, and…is award travel even good?41:00 - Listener Question: When should you cancel a credit card?45:00 - On the Spot: Airport code pop quizGet featured on the podcast! Submit a short video (15 seconds or less) with a travel brag, your name, and where you are, and finish it with “Welcome Back to the Thrifty Traveler Podcast” and upload it to thriftytraveler.com/voicemail. We can’t wait to hear from you!Produced and edited by Sylvia ThomasVideo editing by Kyle ThomasShow music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Where will you find the best flight deals in 2026? Where should you (and we!) travel this year? What else will shape the year of travel ahead - maybe another government shutdown? And who the heck are “Danny & Debbie Delta?” To ring in the New Year, the guys pull out their crystal balls to talk about all things travel in 2026. Plus, a special friend introduces the show and we make a big announcement about what’s ahead for the pod in 2026. Happy New Year, travelers!Watch us on YouTube!00:00 - Where are we traveling in 2026?02:20 - A new tradition to kick off the show! Submit your videos to thriftytraveler.com/voicemail.04:00 - Where to look for the best flight deals in 2026, and why you should keep an eye on the Asia & Delta SkyMiles flash sales14:15 - What deals won’t survive 2026? 18:33 - A word from our sponsor: Us & our Thrifty Traveler Premium service20:19 - The trends that will shape 2026 travel: The Olympics & other big events, plus troubling signs for award travel 28:00 - Watching out for low-cost carriers - and why “Danny & Debbie Delta in Detroit” should care.35:00 - Airports in 2026: Another shutdown, TSA fees & more40:35 - What about credit cards? Bilt 2.0 & the uncertain future of the Venture X45:30 - Where to go in 2026? Thailand, Vietnam, Finland, Spain, and beyond51:45 - Listener Question: When & how you should call the airline to book award tickets57:40 - On the Spot: Big news ahead for the podcast?Produced and edited by Sylvia ThomasVideo editing by Kyle ThomasShow music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s the Thrifty Traveler Podcast Holiday Party, and what better way than to celebrate than with another mailbag episode?! We listen and react to voicemails from some beloved listeners and colleagues, including questions about the biggest story of the year, a bunch of incredible booking brags, the worst travel mistakes we’ve made, how our listeners (and bosses) really feel about all the Canada stuff. Plus, Gunnar kicks off the show with an extra special (cringe? brutal?) introduction. Happy Holidays, Thrifty Travelers!Thanks to HotelSlash for sponsoring this episode of the show! Try it out today: Use promo code THRIFTYTRAVELER for a free 90-day trial – plus, get $20 off your first prepaid booking!Watch us on YouTube!00:00 - ‘Twas the Pod Before Christmas…02:30 - What’s the biggest story in travel we covered on the pod in 2025? 05:35 - Trip Brags: Our listeners and colleagues brag about their best 2025 bookings20:30 - What deals do we want in 2026? What’s left on our bucket lists? 24:45 - A word from our sponsor: HotelSlash, the easiest way to book a cheaper hotel stay - & rebook when prices drop25:35 - Travel mistakes - Amy learning things the hard way and Grover wants to know if they’re cut out for the points and miles game after all? 33:20 - A hodge-podge of questions: How many credit cards & tipping in lounges41:20 - Oh, Canada: Are Gunnar’s days with the company numbered? 47:30 - Sylvia puts us on the spot about our biggest mistake … and her own52:10 - Some special holiday thank-yous to our colleagues and listenersProduced and edited by Sylvia ThomasVideo editing by Kyle ThomasShow music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot Support the show by leaving us a rating and a review wherever you get your podcasts! Have a question you want answered on-air or an idea for the show? Let us know at [email protected] 20% off your first year of cheap flights and points and miles deals with Thrifty Traveler Premium - use promo code TTPOD to save even more!See what we’re all about at https://thriftytraveler.com - or subscribe to our free weekly points and miles newsletter, The Extra Mile!Follow us on…InstagramYouTubeFacebookBluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.