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Gear & Travel Tips

Gear & Travel Tips

The Southwest Companion Pass Trick: How We Earn It Without Flying

September 26, 2026 by Melissa

You don’t need to fly 135,000 miles. Here’s the two-credit-card trick to earn the Southwest Companion Pass — plus how to maximize it once you have it. Updated April 2026.

Categories Blog, Gear & Travel Tips, Travel Tips Tags award travel, budget travel 10 Comments

Looking for the Best Credit Cards for Family Travel? Check These Choices

October 6, 2026 by Melissa

Looking for the best credit cards for family travel? Whether you’re a beginner or have been learning about points and miles for a while, you’ll find awesome options for free travel and premium perks!

Categories Blog, Gear & Travel Tips, Travel Tips Tags award travel, budget travel 3 Comments

Case Study: Chase Sapphire Reserve’s The Edit Shines in Amsterdam

September 10, 2026 by Melissa

Real numbers on how The Edit booking program on the Chase Sapphire Reserve helped me book two rooms for four nights at the Kimpton De Witt Amsterdam for about 100,000 points and $50

Categories Blog, Gear & Travel Tips, Travel Tips Tags award travel Leave a comment

3 Reasons I Upgraded To The Chase Sapphire Reserve (Even Without A Bonus)

September 10, 2026 by Melissa
Boy standing at the window at Andaz Papagayo Peninsula resort in Costa Rica

Is the Chase Sapphire Reserve worth it without a welcome bonus? Here’s the real math behind my decision to upgrade – credits, Points Boost, and more.

Categories Blog, Gear & Travel Tips, Travel Tips Tags award travel Leave a comment

Where to Stay in London with Kids on Points (by Program)

September 10, 2026 by Melissa

Finding a London hotel for families on points can be hard between small rooms, tight occupancy limits and high rates. This in-depth guide shows you the best value for London points hotels for families within each major program (and beyond).

Categories Blog, Destinations, Europe, Gear & Travel Tips, UK Tags award travel 1 Comment

Samsonite Freeform Carry-On vs Traveler’s Choice Pagosa: Mid-Priced Luggage Throwdown

July 29, 2026 by Melissa

If you’re looking for the best carry-on suitcase for YOU, check out this helpful hands-on comparison of two of the top mid-priced options.

Categories Blog, Gear & Travel Tips, Gear Recommendations Leave a comment
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