Frequent Miler

Hidden city ticketing could save you a lot of money or miles, but it comes with both challenges and risks. Some find it appealing, others find it unethical. Greg and Nick discuss the details. Join our email list: https://frequentmiler.com/subscribe/ 00:00 Introduction 00:42 Giant Mailbag 05:19 Mattress running the numbers: Now exchange points between Choice and…

Do you often read about the luxury travels of bloggers and think “That’s nice, but it’s not possible to do that with an entire family!”? This week, Greg and Nick decided to bet the Frequent Miler team’s reputation as points and miles wizards on our ability to create an amazing trip for not one or…

What’s the strongest transferable points wallet you can muster with just a $250 budget for annual fees? Will Greg or Nick come up with the killer combo — and can yours beat theirs? 00:00 Intro 00:59 Giant Mailbag 03:32 What crazy thing . . . did Capital One do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/can-the-premier-collection-really-compete-with-fine-hotels-resorts-and-the-sort/ 09:03 Mattress running…

Fresh off the plane from New Zealand, Greg shares highlights from his trip and we discuss the best ways to fly to and stay in New Zealand using points and miles. Subscribe to our email list: https://frequentmiler.com/subscribe/ 1:06 Giant Mailbag 3:06 What crazy thing . . . did Chase and Aeroplan do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/unlimited-pay-yourself-back-for-travel-at-1-25c-for-aeroplan-cardholders/…

Airline, hotel, and rental car programs treat their best customers to the highest level of recognition. Are the perks worth your loyalty? Which elite benefits are the best in the business? This week, we talk about our favorite elite benefits in each of several categories. Join our email list: https://frequentmiler.com/subscribe/ 00:42 Giant Mailbag 2:43 What…

We regularly report on great deals, but this week we discuss the cream of the crop as we try to narrow down the best of the best deals of 2022.  Join our email list so you don’t miss great deals like these: https://frequentmiler.com/subscribe/ 00:50 Giant Mailbag https://frequentmiler.com/frequent-milers-2022-state-of-the-business-report/ 3:55 What crazy thing…did Southwest Airlines do this…

This week, we throw regular segments out the window and cover your end of year checklist before diving into the 2022 Bonvoyed Awards, where we discuss which program has Bonvoyed us the worst in 2022. 01:37 Elite status Marriott Titanium achieved. Here’s how I sprinted to the finish. 06:34 Expiring free night certs Gift hotel…

American Airlines clearly is not a player-hater: the newly revamped AAdvantage Loyalty Points program seems to be designed with an eye toward gamification. Gone are the days when George Clooney’s character from Up in the Air was the ideal of an airline’s best customer because this new program values those of us who earn miles…

Aeroplan adds the ability to book Emirates awards, British Airways lets you pay more Avios and less money, JetBlue totally revamps its loyalty program and more. Greg and Nick discuss this week’s big loyalty news and more. Join our email list to read even more: FrequentMiler.com/Subscribe 00:28 Giant mailbag: Etihad sweet spot on Asiana https://frequentmiler.com/best-ways-to-get-to-asia-using-miles-premium-cabins/…

Get JetBlue Mosaic-like benefits or Alaska elite-like benefits without ever setting foot on a plane with the American Airlines Loyalty Point game. This week Greg and Nick discuss some reasons you may be missing that might make it worth playing the game. 1:11 Giant Mailbag 2:29 What crazy thing….did Capital One Shopping do this week?…

Did you know that Amex partners with United and that your favorite UR card might be the one that indirectly offers Grubhub+? On this week’s Frequent Miler on the Air podcast, Greg and Nick discuss some of the strange secret partnerships you can find in your wallet and why they may be of interest. Join…

Whether you’re doing some holiday shopping or making day-to-day purchases, you want to stack to get as much back as you possible can. Getting the best deals means peeling back a lot of layers. 00:51 Giant Mailbag 5:46 What crazy thing double header First up: What crazy thing did Hyatt do this week? 11:43 What…

Are miles and points free? Do we use them for “free travel”? Does how we earned the miles make the travel more or less free? This week, we talk about costs and trade-offs of “free” travel. Join our email list: https://frequentmiler.com/subscribe/ 00:43 Giant Mailbag 04:59 What crazy thing….did Barclays do this week? Arrival Plus adds…

Does two years of free companion travel and points to cover more than $1500 in airfare sound good to you? Southwest Companion Pass Open Season has officially begun and this week we discuss strategies to take advantage of one of the best deals in domestic (and Mexico/Central America/Caribbean) travel. Join our email list: https://frequentmiler.com/subscribe/ 1:00…

Wondering how to leverage points, miles, and credit card benefits for a family of four or more? This week, we discuss how to enhance your family award travel. 1:30 Giant Mailbag Frequent Miler’s next challenge: What should it be? 6:06 What crazy thing…….did Frontier do this week? Frontier GoWild! All-You-Can-Fly Pass Coming Soon – Take…

With one card sporting a $95 annual fee versus a price tag of $550 per year for the other, you might think that the answer here is easy, but it turns out that there’s a lot to discuss between these two top travel cards. 1:25 Giant Mailbag 3:59 What crazy thing…did Radisson Hotels do this…

Why would anyone want to pay $400 or more for a credit card? This week, Greg and Nick discuss some of the cards on the market that *may* be worth it and which perks would need to matter to you to make them worth the price of admission. 00:46 Giant Mailbag: ANA’s friendly change 4:55…

All of the best “What Crazy Thing” segments in one place 0:32 Introducing new segment: “What crazy thing did Citi do this week?”1:33 Citi be 5x crazy3:09 Triple header: Everyone wants in3:48 Crazy Chase Hyatt offer4:16 Time to rename to “What crazy thing…”5:12 AA overpromises and underdelivers6:14 Choice fails to roll out terrible deal7:35 Hilton…

How far can you really travel on just 3 credit card welcome bonuses? It turns out you can check multiple items off of a bucket list without breaking a sweat. This week, we discuss our favorite highlights from the three 3 cards, 3 continents trips.  03:40 What crazy things . . . has Marriott done…

Having just wrapped up our #3Cards3Continents trips, this week we discuss the sweetspots realized during our journeys and how you can leverage them as well or better in your future travels. 00:57 Giant Mailbag 6:58 What crazy thing . . . did Nick do this week? 11:23 Main Event: Sweetspots realized 11:34 Stretching the Aeroplan…

With a good deal of countries and continents under their belts, Greg and Nick have picked up some great tips for your international trips when it comes to packing your bag. This week we are currently on our #3Cards3Continents worldwide trips — and with this episode you’ll be able to imagine what we have in…

From dirt-cheap awards to Hawaii to nearly-free airport parking and the best free airport tours worldwide, this week we discuss the top travel hacks learned from past frequent miler challenges as we prepare to set off on our latest such challenge. 3:00 Giant Mailbag 8:30 3 Cards 3 Continents 3 Updates Frequent Miler’s 2022 Team…

Want ultra-luxury perks like lounge access and elite status at a bargain-basement price? This week, Greg and Nick discuss how to get the most bang for your buck by maximizing annual credits on your ultra-premium credit cards. 1:21 GIant Mailbag 5:47 3 Cards, 3 Continents, 3 Updates https://frequentmiler.com/frequent-milers-2022-team-challenge-3-cards-3-continents/ 15:22 Awards we booked this week 19:45…

Hyatt’s top-tier Globalist elite status is easy to want, but it seems difficult to get. This week, we talk hacks to get you there faster. 1:14 Giant Mailbag 4:30 3 Cards, 3 Continents, 3 Updates Frequent Miler’s 2022 Team Challenge: 3 Cards, 3 Continents 14:22 What crazy thing….did IHG do this week? 18:39 What crazy…

1:05 Giant Mailbag: How to find and book awards on Virgin Atlantic’s website https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rIh2Bosgas8&lc=Ugw-T8OXIc04QG7G0cp4AaABAg 3:41 3 Cards, 3 Continents, 1 update https://frequentmiler.com/frequent-milers-2022-team-challenge-3-cards-3-continents/ 9:58 Awards we booked this week 1 9:16 Mattress running the numbers: Winc Wines AA Loyalty Point Mileage Run https://frequentmiler.com/stackable-aadvantage-offer-2500-miles-and-4-bottles-of-wine-for-10/ 22:41 What crazy thing….did Marriott Bonvoy do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/rumor-mid-tier-marriott-cards-may-be-coming-next-month/ 26:26 Main Event:…

Our two favorite Amex transfer partners offer access to a wide array of awards that make for fascinating possibilities, whether great award chart values or flexible routing rules or a lot more. This week, we debate which is best from a wide range of angles. 00:51 Giant Mailbag: Watch out for “free” award cancellations 6:36…

Friends don’t let friends pay full price for hotels. Here are some of the tools we use to slice and dice the price of lodging. 00:44 Giant Mailbag: Pop-up averted over the phone 4:14 3 Cards, 3 Continents, 3 Updates Frequent Miler’s 2022 Team Challenge: 3 Cards, 3 Continents 15:34 What crazy thing….did Marriott Bonvoy…

Want to sleep cheap in the city that never sleeps? Using hotel points can save you a boatload on your next New York City vacation, but not all award options are created equally. This week, Greg and Nick discuss your best bets. 00:58 Giant Mailbag Double Header (First up: IHG welcome bonus free night not…

As we plan for our 3 Cards, 3 Continents dream trips, we can’t quite have it all. There have been dreams we’ve had to put on hold for future trips and this week Greg and Nick discuss a couple of those fantastic trips they hope to take one day but couldn’t fit into this challenge….

[Update: The wrong episode was initially loaded. This update includes the correct episode.]. Wondering how to find those elusive business class awards? Greg and Nick discuss the tricks in their toolbags. 00:28 Giant Mailbag 1:48 Mattress running the numbers: Daily Getaways https://frequentmiler.com/daily-getaways-2022-first-2-weeks-of-offers-announced/ Are any of these deals worth speculatively buying? Our analysis: 3:46 IHG points…

Want to travel all around the world in business class for about as many points as most people use for a simple round trip to Europe? This show has the tips you need to book the famed ANA Round the World award — and reasons why you might want to consider paying a few more…

Virgin Atlantic has promised to open up at least 12 award seats on every flight. This has led to unprecedented award availability. Here’s how to make the most of it. 1:27 Giant Mailbag: How to log into hotel wi-fi with a Chromebook 4:44 3 Cards 3 Continents 3 Updates Stephen cashes out 50K Membership Rewards…

Got to cancel your card but don’t know what to do with your points? Here are your best options. 00:58 3 Cards, 3 Continents, 3 updates 17:31 Giant Mailbag: Comments from live stream draft audience https://frequentmiler.com/drafting-the-dream-results-who-got-which-cards/ 21:32 What crazy thing . . . did the Curve credit card do this week? 26:05 Main Event: Where…

You’re planning a dream trip to 3 continents; which 3 credit cards would you choose for the best combination of welcome bonuses and card benefits? This week, we talk strategy for our upcoming draft — because once one of us makes a selection, the other two will be left scrambling to strategize the next move….

Yes, you can continue to march on the Amex point parade even after you’ve signed up for all the cards. 00:53 Giant Mailbag: What’s the best loyalty program outside of the United States? 4:18 Mattress running the numbers: Magazines.com stacking deals https://frequentmiler.com/magazines-com-citi-offer-giving-15-on-20-spend-stack-with-aa-portal-simplymiles-or-40x-rakuten/ 9:08 What crazy thing did….Curve do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/is-the-curve-card-ready-for-prime-time-hint-not-yet/ 14:25 Main Event: Amex…

00:50 Giant Mailbag https://www.allegiantair.com/military-discount https://www.caesars.com/myrewards/promotions/caesars-rewards-salute-card 5:13 What crazy thing…..double feature! First up: Virgin Atlantic takes away calendar view (but we’ve got ya covered) https://frequentmiler.com/the-virgin-atlantic-monthly-award-calendar-still-exists-heres-how-to-find-it/ 8:03 What crazy thing…did Germany do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/germany-offering-monthly-train-tickets-for-9-euro-june-july-august/ 11:22 Mattress running the numbers: Is the 50% transfer bonus from Chase to Marriott a good deal?  https://frequentmiler.com/50-transfer-bonus-from-chase-ultimate-rewards-to-marriott-bonvoy/ 18:20 Main Event: Keeper…

A brief summary of this episode

00:45 Giant Mailbag: Double Feature 9:29 Mattress running the numbers double feature. First up: IHG status match https://frequentmiler.com/ihg-one-rewards-status-challenege-get-free-platinum-status-upgrade-to-diamond-with-15-nights/ 16:20 A Sunbaskets stack https://frequentmiler.com/sunbasket-mypoints-simply-miles-citi-stack-80-profit-1000-aadvantage-miles-and-8-meals/ 21:30 Main Event: Finding impossible awards 22:09 Step 1: Know your availability windows 30:25 Delta One to Europe 45:46 SeatSpy to hunt out availability Lie-flat to Hawaii: How to use SeatSpy to…

Seeking stackery for savings on flights, hotels, rental cars, parking, hotel food, and more? On this week’s show, Greg and Nick talk about surprising ways to save on your upcoming trips. 1:36 What crazy thing did Hyatt do this week? 7:57 Mileage running the numbers: Is it worth spending to keep Air Canada Aeroplan elite…

There are lots of great sweet spots that are exciting in theory are nearly impossible to actually book. This week, Greg and Nick discuss *practical* sweet spots — the ones they have booked & you can, too. 1:25 This week’s disclaimer 4:16 Mattress running the numbers: Is it worth mattress running to get 2x, 3x,…

Would you rather earn 120K Chase Ultimate Rewards points or 160K Amex Membership Rewards points? It turns out that the answer may not be as simple as you think. 00:48 Giant Mailbag: Newcomer to the show books round the world with ANA. 2:45 What crazy thing . . . did Nick do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/cashing-out-why-nick-is-dumping-a-chunk-of-points-today/…

United recently offered business class seats to many destinations around the world for 60K miles each way. Was it a great deal that everyone should have booked? We each share our thought process with this kind of deal and why one of us booked it and one of us didn’t. 1:07 Giant Mailbag: The Capital…

Is the new IHG One Rewards set to top Marriott Rewards? While it won’t dethrone Hyatt atop the loyalty rewards mantle, IHG One is looking surprisingly strong. 1:38 Giant Mailbag: Is the Apple card a better beginner card? 6:15 What crazy thing . . . did Caesars Rewards do this week? The un-matched get rematched….

Can a coupon book really be worth $695? This week we run the numbers and see if it all adds up to make the Platinum card worthwhile. 00:43 Giant Mailbag double header. First up: Booking Air France intra-European flights via Virgin Atlantic and getting Caesars Diamond back again 4:27 Giant Mailbag: Confession time: Caesars Diamond…

The best card for a student or young professional just starting out on life’s journey and the path to valuable rewards for spend isn’t necessarily clear-cut, but on this week’s show we discuss the options we would be most likely to recommend — and why one probably stands out over the rest for a large…

Did you know that your Ultimate Rewards points can still transfer to Amtrak? Or that Citi ThankYou points can become British Airways Avios? This week we talk about ways to wave your magic wand and convert your points creatively. 1:18 Giant Mailbag: Award availability disclaimers 5:33 Confession Time! 9:36 What crazy thing…did British Airways do…

A brief summary of this episode

1:07 Giant Mailbag: What about Wyndham? 5:52 Mattress running the numbers: Wyndham promotion for up to 5x points https://frequentmiler.com/great-new-wyndham-promo-earn-up-to-5x-points-on-one-stay-by-5-31-22/ 9:30 What crazy thing double header! What crazy thing . . . did Greg do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/approved-for-venture-x-am-i-nuts-on-my-mind/ 14:44 What crazy thing . . . did American Express do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/huge-gold-card-offer-earn-90k-points-and-up-to-250-in-statement-credits-with-qualifying-activity/ https://frequentmiler.com/150k-platinum-card-offer-via-referral/ 26:32 The Main…

Booking award flights can be difficult, frustrating and time-consuming — but it doesn’t have to be. This week, we talk about the challenges of booking the best flight awards and how to overcome them. 00:56 Giant Mailbag 2:29 What crazy thing….did American Airlines do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/gregs-american-airlines-loyalty-point-progress/ 10:50 Mattress running the numbers / Mileage running…

Which cards do we flex for grocery, gas, travel, and everywhere else? Greg and Nick discuss the cards they use for each category and why. 1:04 Giant Mailbag: About that Amex pop-up . . . 4:00 What crazy thing . . . did Qatar do this week? Qatar Airways Changes: Qmiles Adios, Hello Avios 8:54…

With many great Hyatt properties moving out of range of free night certificates, is it finally time to step off the bandwagon of Hyatt fandom? This week we discuss what will change, what won’t, and where we go from here.  00:32 Giant Mailbag: Confession Time 06:11 What crazy thing did….Barclays do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/caution-wyndham-business-card-reporting-as-a-personal-card-to-credit-bureaus/ 9:39…

Amex offers some of the best cards on the market both in terms of initial welcome bonus offers and rewards for ongoing spend, but how do you stay in Amex’s good graces so you can remain eligible? This week, we discuss avoiding dreaded pop-up prison. 1:18 Giant Mailbag 5:49 What crazy thing . . ….

Getting the best deal on an award ticket is rarely done by going to one airline’s website and searching round trip. Greg & Nick discuss the artistry that goes into building a masterpiece of a booking. 1:28 Giant Mailbag 5:57 What crazy thing did Radisson do this week? 10:17 Mattress Running the Numbers: Should you…

1:06 Giant Mailbag 9:37 What crazy thing did . . . Aeromexico do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/expanded-delta-award-availability-via-aeromexico/ 15:50 Mattress Running the Numbers Triple Header https://frequentmiler.com/ihg-offering-up-to-35000-point-bonus-with-intercontinental-ambassador-renewal-or-enrollment/ https://frequentmiler.com/marriott-promotion-earn-1000-bonus-points-per-night-doubled-elite-nights/ https://frequentmiler.com/radisson-rewards-americas-stay-3-nights-earn-30000-points/ 29:35 The Hotel Loyalty Rollercoaster https://frequentmiler.com/excited-about-ihg/ https://frequentmiler.com/ihg-card-changes-new-biz-card-higher-earning-top-up-certs-with-points-more/ 1:02:31 Post Roast 1:04:41 Question of the Week: What counts as American Airlines Loyalty Points? Subscribe to our email list: https://frequentmiler.com/subscribe/ Music…

This week’s episode was recording when word came in about the death of the incredible Resy offer. Still, the sweet spots discussed are highly relevant for anyone sitting on a bunch of Membership Rewards points. Listen in as we discuss how half a million points could buy you seven round trip business class tickets to…

What is the domestic US destination that Greg thinks should be on your bucket list and what else do he and Nick have in mind “someday”? Listen to this week’s show to find out. 1:13 What crazy thing….did Plaid do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/plaid-class-action-settlement-submit-claim-by-4-28-22/ 7:13 Mattress Running the Numbers: Which Hilton Surpass offer is the best?…

American Airlines elite status will be easier than ever to achieve if you play the game right. Greg and Nick discuss why they care and how they plan to earn high-level AA elite status in their pajamas and without setting foot on an American Airlines plane. 1:08 Giant Mailbag / What crazy thing…did IHG do…

1:33 Giant Mailbag: The Venture X vacation rental credit may apply more broadly than you’d expect. 4:31 What crazy thing….did American Express do this week? Unexpected (and clawed back) Uber credits https://frequentmiler.com/happy-holidays-from-amex-gold-cardholders-getting-bonus-10-uber-credits-targeted/ 7:12 Mattress running the numbers: Hyatt points for expiring certificates – including club access awards https://frequentmiler.com/hyatt-offering-bonus-points-for-club-access-awards-certs-extending-certs-suite-upgrade-awards/ 14:51 Main Event: 2021’s Deal of the…

The awards we enjoy remembering most, a last-minute status tip, and more on this week’s show. 1:34 Giant Mailbag: 240x pushback 6:33 What crazy thing….did Citi do this week? 9:00 Mattress running the numbers: Don’t forget this shortcut to Marriott Titanium status 12:40 The Main Event: Our all-time favorite awards https://frequentmiler.com/my-all-time-favorite-award-redemptions/ https://frequentmiler.com/my-all-time-favorite-award-redemptions/ On the LifeMiles…

The American Airlines SimplyMiles deal to earn 240 miles per dollar donated to charity was ultimately honored, but when we recorded this week’s episode we didn’t yet know it would be. We looked back at how we handled it in terms of what we published (and didn’t), how much we donated, and our takeaways for…

Are you ready for the end? This week we talk about your to-do list to make sure you reap all the rewards you are due before the ball drops on New Year’s Eve. 1:35 Giant Mailbag 5:46 What crazy thing did American Express do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/becoming-undead-and-grabbing-over-250000-points/ 9:57 Mattress running the numbers: Is the new…

Air Canada’s Aeroplan rewards program has unveiled a new credit card for the U.S. market. And, surprise… the card seems custom built for “gaming”! Ready to play? 0:01:00 Mailbag Double header Mea Culpa: Wyndham 10K, JetBlue pooling 00:05:00 Mattress Running the Numbers: Swagbucks 0:09:20 Main Event: Aeroplan encourages gaming. Ready player 1? 0:56:13 Post Roast:…

This week we discuss whether we should stop ignoring Spirit Airlines and start booking that Big Front Seat everywhere we go (domestically). 01:09 Giant Mailbag & Confession Time https://frequentmiler.com/10-years-of-frequent-miler/ 5:12 What crazy thing…did American Express do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/maximizing-value-from-amex-multi-referrals/ 09:05 Mattress Running the Numbers: Should we mattress run the stacking Wyndham promotions? https://frequentmiler.com/wyndham-earn-25-gift-card-when-staying-2-nights-earn-twice-stack-with-other-offers/ https://frequentmiler.com/wyndham-earn-10000-bonus-points-when-booking-2-night-weekday-stays-check-in-sun-wed/ https://frequentmiler.com/wyndham-rewards-stay-4-nights-get-7500-bonus-points-limit-2-bonuses/…

The Amex +4 referral offer stacks on top of existing bonus categories to make for some great deals. How can you trigger this deal easily and what are some good ways to maximize it? We discuss everything you need to know. 00:39 Giant Mailbag https://frequentmiler.com/10-years-of-frequent-miler/ https://frequentmiler.com/40kfaraway-stretching-the-boundaries-of-possibility/ 7:51 What crazy thing did Greg the Frequent Miler…

Capital One has access to some incredible sweet spot awards, but there are also some sour spots that you would be missing if you gave up other award programs to go all-Capital One miles. We also analyze a targeted Hyatt promo, answer the question of the week, and more. 00:44 Giant Mailbag 2:14 What crazy…

1:21 What crazy thing….did X1 do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/x1-card-review-up-to-4x-everywhere-its-here-its-real/ 6:33 Mattress Running the Numbers: Is it worth spending $8K for a Hilton free night certificate if targeted? https://frequentmiler.com/hilton-free-night-certificate-offer-with-just-8k-spend-targeted/ 11:58 Main Event: Capital One’s Venture X: Will it bury the competition? https://frequentmiler.com/capital-one-venture-x-card-a-strong-new-ultra-premium-contender/ https://frequentmiler.com/huge-if-true-convert-capital-one-cash-back-to-miles-by-moving-rewards/ 48:47 Post Roast https://frequentmiler.com/build-your-amex-point-fortune-up-to-620k-points-with-25k-spend/ How to refer someone to almost any Amex card:…

1:05 Giant Mailbag 2:56 What crazy thing . . .triple header! 3:15 What crazy thing . . . did Amex do recently? https://frequentmiler.com/waves-of-amex-shut-downs-this-week/ 4:53 What crazy thing . . . did Cardless do this week? 6:46 What crazy thing . . . did Amtrak do this week? 8:53 Mattress running the numbers: How to lock…

1:23 Giant Mailbag 6:04 Mattress running the numbers: Is it worth spending $15K on the JetBlue Plus card to get Mosaic status? https://frequentmiler.com/jetblue-mosaic-status-with-15k-spend-from-10-1-to-12-31/ 10:17 Main Event: Our favorite sweet spot awards -Turkish Hawaii https://frequentmiler.com/how-to-book-united-flights-using-turkish-miles-smiles/ -ANA RTW https://frequentmiler.com/tips-for-booking-anas-round-the-world-award/ -ANA to/from Asia https://frequentmiler.com/ana-mileage-club-sweet-spots/#Asia-2 -ANA Star Alliance to Europe for 88K RT https://frequentmiler.com/ana-mileage-club-sweet-spots/#Europe-2 -ANA First Class booked via…

1:07 Giant Mailbag 3:56 What crazy thing…did American Express do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/amex-platinum-adds-walmart-and-soulcycle-benefits/ 9:21 Mattress Running the Numbers: The Weak Link in Marriott’s Week of Wonders 14:55 Main Event: Chase Battles for the Middle https://frequentmiler.com/new-world-of-hyatt-business-credit-card-launches/ https://frequentmiler.com/manufacturing-hyatt-status-with-the-new-business-card/ 41:30 Post Roast Greg’s roast of Nick: https://frequentmiler.com/now-11-capital-one-improves-transfer-ratio-for-almost-all-airline-programs/ Nick’s roast of Greg: https://frequentmiler.com/manufacturing-hyatt-status-with-the-new-business-card/ 52:23 Question of the Week: How…

00:51 Giant Mailbag 5:09 What crazy thing….did the Waldorf-Astoria Maldives do this week? 9:45 Mattress Running the Numbers: Is 129x Hilton points worth a mattress run? (EXPIRED) Earn 7,500 Hilton Points When Staying At Hilton Properties In Las Vegas 15:02 Main Event: Disputing the Indisputable Best Offer [Expired] 125K + 15x Platinum via Resy! Settling…

00:31 Giant Mailbag: The highs and lows of Passing the GUC 10:00 Mattress running the numbers: A Radisson promo that really is mattress-run-worthy. 15:50 Main Event: Marriott fans the rumor flames 45:41 Question of the Week: Could you use US Bank Altitude Reserve points to pay for your Maldives sea plane transfer? Join our email…

Greg and Nick recorded this week’s episode in the air on the way home from the Maldives. With crystal clear waters, show-stopping sunsets, and fantastic service still fresh in mind – and while flying in the comfort of KLM business class during recording – the answer to the title question still wasn’t an easy one….

This week Greg and Nick discuss the challenges they have faced in navigating protocols and requirements for a major international trip. See more here: https://frequentmiler.com/guc-trip-update/   Music credit: Annie Yoder

00:27 Giant Mailbag: Is the Hilton Surpass the better choice for Hilton Diamond status in 2021?   3:10 Mattress Running the Numbers: If you’re spending for a Hilton free night certificate in 2021, should you finish off the spend for Diamond status?   10:14 What crazy thing…did Citi do this week?   13:55 Main Event:…

1:08 Giant Mailbag 4:41 What crazy thing…did Alitalia do this week? 11:10 Mattress running the numbers: At what price should you mattress run the new Wyndham promotions? https://frequentmiler.com/wyndham-earn-3000-bonus-points-when-booking-weekday-stays-check-in-sun-wed/ 18:52 Main Event: Elite status from home https://frequentmiler.com/shopping-for-status-airline-edition-inspired-by-passing-the-guc/ https://frequentmiler.com/shopping-for-status-car-rental-edition/ https://frequentmiler.com/american-airlines-platinum-pro-status-fast-track-via-world-of-hyatt/ 51:56 Question of the Week: Rental car prices keep changing. How can you make sure you’re getting…

00:41 Giant Mailbag: Is the Sears Shop Your Way Mastercard the best cash back card ever? 5:42 What crazy thing…did Radisson Rewards do? 12:21 Mattress running the numbers: Should Greg use a Marriott free night certificate or earn a new one? 22:07 Main Event: Easy top tier Hyatt elite status. Should you go for it?…

1:17 Giant Mailbag: Why not log in to United? 4:44 What crazy thing…did Aeroplan do this week? Aeroplan might be a more exciting transfer partner than we thought 10:41 Mileage running the numbers: When is an Emirates Skywards+ subscription worth it? Emirates Launches Skywards+ Subscription Plans: Surprisingly Compelling Offer 18:10 Main Event: One card to…

Chase has added Air Canada as an Ultimate Rewards transfer partner. Having new options is always good news, but is the news “great”? 00:00:25 Giant mailbag (Airlines set award rates just above saver level) 00:04:55 Mattress Running the Numbers: Hilton Amex Offer (20% rebate) + Triple points promo + Aspire card $250 rebate 00:13:22 What…

  00:34 Giant Mailbag: Do you have any plans to to do a podcast about the US Bank Altitude Reserve card? https://frequentmiler.com/us-bank-altitude-reserve-guide/   2:45 What crazy thing….did Alaska Airlines do this week?   10:37 Mileage Running the Numbers: Is it worth mileage running Delta Lifetime Diamond status? https://frequentmiler.com/manufacturing-lifetime-delta-diamond-status/   19:26 Main Event: Delta elite status:…

00:21 All the things we got wrong last week 7:28 Giant Mailbag: Isn’t Fine Hotels & Resorts overpriced? 14:53 What crazy thing…..did Amex do this week? 16:57 What crazy thing….did Amex do this week? 21:42 Mattress Running the Numbers: Best Western (EXPIRED) Best Western Amex Offer: Spend $100 & Get $20 Back 24:56 Main Event:…

00:38 Giant Mailbag: Want more Ask Us Anything? See us on Youtube 2:24 What crazy thing…did Capital One do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/capital-one-shut-down-my-account-and-gave-me-only-a-half-cent-per-mile/ 11:34 Mattress Running the Numbers: Marriott Homes & Villas stacking promotions for 57,000 bonus points https://frequentmiler.com/marriott-homes-villas-spend-2100-earn-21000-bonus-points/ 17:21 Main Event: Rocking Fine Hotels https://frequentmiler.com/searching-for-deals-through-fine-hotels-resorts/ https://frequentmiler.com/find-your-own-fine-hotels-resorts-deals/ https://frequentmiler.com/getting-the-elite-experience-without-elite-status-via-luxury-partner-programs/ 1:00:00 Post Roast 1:02:57 Question of the Week:…

00:21 Giant Mailbag: Is the AT&T Access More card worth keeping? 6:11 What crazy thing….did Amex do this week? 9:52 Mattress running the numbers: Marriott stay once or twice, get one or two free nights. Deal or no deal? (Targeted) Marriott: Stay Once & Get Free Night Award, Stay Twice & Get 2 Free Night…

00:41 Giant Mailbag: Reader Greg is unhappy 2:57 What crazy thing did…..Resy do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/now-125k-15x-platinum-via-resy/ 5:47 What crazy thing…did Upside do this week? 8:48 Mattress running the numbers: Chase 50% transfer bonus to Marriott 11:20 Main Event: 15x Madness from American Express https://frequentmiler.com/new-platinum-live-disappointing-restrictions-monster-offer-for-some/ https://frequentmiler.com/the-amex-platinum-coupon-book-review-on-my-mind/ 45:31 Question of the Week: I’m cancelling my Platinum. What…

3:00 Giant Mailbag 4:22 What crazy thing…did Alliant Credit Union do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/alliant-looks-to-reclaim-the-throne-as-cash-back-king/ 14:26 Mattress Running the Numbers: Nothing this week 15:17 Main Event: Rewards for Rent https://frequentmiler.com/renters-rejoice-bilt-mastercard-offers-points-for-rent-transfer-to-hyatt-aa-and-more/ https://frequentmiler.com/how-to-earn-rewards-by-paying-rent/ 40:42 Question of the Week: What are the best websites for buying low or no-fee gift cards? https://frequentmiler.com/best-options-for-buying-visa-and-mastercard-gift-cards/ Don’t forget to like & subscribe! Join…

00:32 Giant Mailbag 7:26 What crazy thing . . .double header! What crazy thing did the Point debit card do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/point-debit-card-rundown-referrals-bonus-points-access-deals-more/ 12:27 What crazy thing did Wyndham Rewards dot his week? https://frequentmiler.com/weird-wyndham-timeshare-offer-3-nights-15k-points-for-199-at-a-fairfield/ 20:17 Main Event: Firesale on Amex points! https://frequentmiler.com/bypass-amexs-lifetime-rule-when-you-expand-your-membership/ https://frequentmiler.com/20k-membership-rewards-bonus-with-new-authorized-user-and-2k-spend-targeted/ https://frequentmiler.com/20k-membership-rewards-bonus-with-new-authorized-user-and-2k-spend-targeted/ https://frequentmiler.com/up-to-40k-membership-rewards-points-with-targeted-business-offer/ http://www.alternativenation.net/foo-fighters-big-hotel-credit-card-bill-revealed/ 44:14 Post Roast https://frequentmiler.com/awesome-credit-card-combos/ https://frequentmiler.com/awesome-cash-back-combos/ 49:56 Question of the…

00:32 Giant Mailbag 2:09 What crazy thing…did Amex do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/bypass-amexs-lifetime-rule-when-you-expand-your-membership/ 9:36 Mattress running the numbers: Run Radisson for the United card-linked offer? https://frequentmiler.com/mpx-earn-25x-mileageplus-miles-on-a-radisson-stay-max-8250-miles/ 14:37 Main Event: Citi Reinvents the 5x card https://frequentmiler.com/citi-shakes-things-up-with-new-5x-choose-your-own-adventure-card/ 38:52 Post Roast https://frequentmiler.com/awesome-credit-card-combos/ https://frequentmiler.com/the-greenbrier-pigeon-forge-vacasa-rental-via-wyndham-rewards-bottom-line-review/ 43:06 Question of the Week: Can you use the Alaska companion certificate after you’ve canceled the…

Amex, Chase, and Capital One each are offering 100,000 point credit card offers. All three are terrific offers, but which is best? Greg and Nick debate this topic and more… 0:0:18 Confession Time with Greg 0:03:18 What crazy thing did… Nick do this week? 0:05:45 Mattress running the numbers: Stacking IHG deals 0:11:19 Main Event:…

3:34 Giant Mailbag: The Captain catches his white whale 4:15 What crazy thing….did Hilton do this week? Hilton replaces breakfast benefit for elite members in the United States [not expanding worldwide] 9:18 What crazy thing….did Marriott do this week? Marriott limits Points Advance holds to no more than 60 days 12:06 What crazy thing did…Cardless…

1:00 Giant Mailbag: Loading….loading…. 2:39 What crazy thing…did Cardless do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/manchester-united-card-500-after-3k-spend-currently-doesnt-add-to-5-24/ 5:57 Mattress Running the Numbers: Should anyone mattress run the Choice Privileges stay twice, get 8K points promo? https://frequentmiler.com/choice-hotels-promo-stay-twice-earn-minimum-8000-points-redeem-for-50-gift-card/ 8:28 Main Event: What is the best 2-card combo? https://frequentmiler.com/capital-one-keeps-crushing-it-now-3-grocery-and-more-on-both-savor-and-savorone/ https://frequentmiler.com/C1VR/ https://frequentmiler.com/C1SVO/ https://frequentmiler.com/typremier/ https://frequentmiler.com/dc/ https://frequentmiler.com/amxgoldcard/ https://frequentmiler.com/amxbbp/ https://frequentmiler.com/csr/ https://frequentmiler.com/cfu/ 41:47 Post Roast https://frequentmiler.com/save-money-earn-elite-nights-10-off-marriott-homes-villas-with-anniversary-sale/ https://frequentmiler.com/forced-to-adventure-due-to-free-night-certs-on-my-mind/…

00:43 Giant Mailbag: Wyndham is great! No, Wyndham stinks! Or maybe it’s all the same feedback…. 5:28 What crazy thing….did Days Inn do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/days-inn-offering-10k-to-atay-at-the-best-days-inn-properties-write-about-it/ 10:22 What crazy thing did….Wyndham Rewards do this week? 14:57 Mattress Running the Numbers: Best Western offers 5K per night for 1-3 nights. Is it worth it? https://frequentmiler.com/best-western-earn-5k-points-per-night-for-3-nights-or-20-gift-card-per-night-for-5-nights-then-5k-points-per-5-nights/ 20:48…

Giant Mailbag 3:02 What crazy thing….did Marriott do? They began taking bookings for a Category 5 resort in the Maldives! https://frequentmiler.com/new-marriott-category-5-maldives-hotel-le-meridien-maldives-use-free-night-certs/ 4:55 Mattress running the numbers: Stacking Hyatt promos and milestone benefits https://frequentmiler.com/targeted-earn-1000-aadvantage-miles-per-night-on-hyatt-stays/ 14:22 Main Event: So you want to stay in an overwater bungalow in the Maldives? https://frequentmiler.com/overwater-villas-in-the-maldives-bookable-with-marriott-points/ https://frequentmiler.com/le-meridien-maldives-worth-buying-a-travel-package/ 56:31 Question of the Week:…

0:56 Giant Mailbag: Are Capital One’s partners the right fit for a beginner? 05:28 What crazy thing….did Greg and Nick do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/good-news-marriott-extending-certificates-and-points/ 08:03 Mattress running the numbers: Is it worth buying Wyndham points, or should you wait? https://frequentmiler.com/buy-wyndham-points-for-less-than-1c-each/ 15:55 Main Event: Deals too good to be true. Should we shut up about them?…

00:48 Giant Mailbag: The IHG Rewards cards are great in the right circumstances https://frequentmiler.com/ihg-sweet-spot-dynamic-pricing-4th-night-free/ 5:30 What crazy thing……did Southwest do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/southwest-rapid-rewards-subscription/ 10:25 Mattress Running the Numbers: Radisson splits. Is it that bad and are we going to do? https://frequentmiler.com/bad-news-radisson-devaluation-announced-and-it-stinks/ https://frequentmiler.com/a-second-look-at-radisson-did-it-actually-get-much-better/ 20:22 Main Event: Capital One steps up to bat https://frequentmiler.com/capital-one-ups-their-game-adds-turkish-and-some-11-partners-airport-lounges/ https://frequentmiler.com/capital-one-miles-no-longer-make-me-mad-on-my-mind/ https://frequentmiler.com/transferable-points-programs-compared/ https://frequentmiler.com/huge-if-true-convert-capital-one-cash-back-to-miles-by-moving-rewards/…

00:52 Giant Mailbag: A reader tips us off to a great new Cat 4 Marriott in the US 3:31 What crazy thing….did Southwest do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/southwest-rapid-rewards-points-devalued-but-still-good-value-to-be-had/ 8:31 Mattress Running the Numbers: Is the Intercontinental Ambassador offer worth it this time with additional stacking opportunities? https://frequentmiler.com/ihg-buy-renew-ambassador-membership-then-stay-once-get-40k-free-night-certificate-cert-expires-4-30-21/ 18:10 Main Event: Revised Platinum card coming soon (like…

00:34 Giant Mailbag: Greg asks for advice 8:04 What crazy thing….double header! First: What crazy thing…did Greg do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/going-for-wyndhams-124x-offer/ Note that the increased payouts have ended: https://frequentmiler.com/wyndham-rewards-shopping-portal-offering-up-to-quintuple-base-points-great-rates-on-offer/ 14:04 What crazy thing….did Radisson do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/radisson-rewards-splitting-operations-between-the-americas-rest-of-the-world/ 21:46 Mattress Running the Numbers: Should you transfer to Singapore for Star Alliance Gold status? https://frequentmiler.com/earn-krisflyer-star-alliance-silver-or-gold-when-transferring-125k-or-250k-points-to-singapore-airlines/ 35:57…

00:34 Giant Mailbag: Hacking rental cars https://frequentmiler.com/are-car-rentals-set-to-be-the-most-expensive-part-of-your-trip/ 05:35 What crazy thing….did Air France do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/air-frances-flying-blue-miles-are-easier-to-extend-than-i-thought/ 12:51 Mattress Running the Numbers: 41K Choice Privileges points for just…8 stays? 19:03 Main Event: Delta Mileage Running https://frequentmiler.com/delta-elite-status-from-award-tickets-plus-50-to-75-bonus-on-all-tickets/ https://frequentmiler.com/delta-skymiles-complete-guide/ 49:14 Post Roast https://frequentmiler.com/6-points-miles-things-im-excited-about-or-at-least-hopeful/ 56:18 Question of the Week: How do you change your frequent flyer number on…

00:57 Giant Mailbag 4:10 What crazy thing…did Marriott do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/marriott-on-twitter-worth-a-try/ https://frequentmiler.com/reverse-bonvoyed-doubled-elite-nights-awarded-when-they-shouldnt-have-been/ 19:42 Mattress Running the Numbers: Is Wyndham Rewards the ticket to Disney+? https://frequentmiler.com/disney-plus-subscription-deal-stack-it-while-you-still-can/ https://frequentmiler.com/how-to-make-that-disney-deal-work-for-5k-wyndham-points/ 29:39 Main Event: Hyatt Thumps Marriott https://frequentmiler.com/how-to-get-top-tier-hyatt-elite-benefits-without-status/ https://frequentmiler.com/how-to-use-hyatts-guest-of-honor-globalist-benefit/ https://frequentmiler.com/gift-hotel-points-free-night-certificates-and-award-nights-booked-with-points-rules-by-program/ 50:45 Post Roast https://frequentmiler.com/best-options-for-domestic-first-class-awards/ 54:18 Question of the Week: How do you prioritize increase Sapphire bonuses versus great Amex…

00:47 Giant Mailbag 3:17 What crazy thing…..did Choice Privileges do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/wacky-choice-promo-8k-points-if-you-stay-this-weekend-or-next-weekend/ 9:18 Mattress running the numbers: 3 Wyndham nights gets 7500 bonus points. Is that worth enough? https://frequentmiler.com/wyndham-rewards-q2-2021-promo-earn-1000-7500-bonus-points-per-stay-ends-5-31-21/ 11:55 Main Event: Delta miles are worth more than AA miles. Whaaat? https://frequentmiler.com/what-are-delta-miles-worth/ https://frequentmiler.com/what-are-united-miles-worth/ https://frequentmiler.com/what-are-american-airlines-miles-worth/ 45:38 Post Roast: Reverse roast of Amex post https://frequentmiler.com/reader-question-reveals-9-things-you-ought-to-know-about-amex-cards/ 47:53…

00:27 Giant Mailbag: Choice Privileges promotion fail https://frequentmiler.com/70k-points-with-500-all-inclusive-booking-via-choice-privileges/ 07:58 What crazy thing…did American Express do this week? https://frequentmiler.com/huge-new-referral-offers-for-both-sides-on-amex-cards-200-4x-home-furnishings/ 18:36 Mattress Running the Numbers: Is the 80K Best Western offer worth more attention? https://frequentmiler.com/80k-points-with-best-western-rewards-mastercard/ 29:04 Main Event: Greg’s ’round the world business class adventure https://frequentmiler.com/ana-around-the-world-ticket-sweet-spot-spotlight/ https://frequentmiler.com/my-round-the-world-business-class-adventure-planning-phase/ https://frequentmiler.com/tips-for-booking-anas-round-the-world-award/ 1:07:33 Post Roast 1:16:04 Question of the Week: Can…

00:15 Giant Mailbag: Misdirected mail 2:44 What crazy thing…did Staples do this week? 6:02 Main Event: Delta Roars Back https://frequentmiler.com/exciting-enhancements-for-deltas-top-tier-elites-on-my-mind/ https://frequentmiler.com/delta-now-shows-upgrade-certificate-availability-in-search-results/ https://frequentmiler.com/delta-upgrade-availability-showing-for-award-miles-cash-flights-too/ https://frequentmiler.com/awesome-new-delta-card-offers/ 29:09 Mattress running the numbers: Is it worth spending $90K on a credit card for Delta Platinum status this year? https://frequentmiler.com/passing-the-guc-greg-gives-global-upgrades-to-nick-with-a-catch/ 50:21 Post Roast: Is it really worth spending on Delta cards?…