Airfares are down, hotel deals are back, and cruises are suddenly hot again. But knowing when to book and how to stretch your points is more confusing than ever. NerdWallet Travel Expert and co-host of the Smart Travel podcast Sally French joins us to cut through the noise with tips for the holiday season and beyond.

We dig into the sweet spot for how far out to book flights, why Tokyo just jumped ahead of Paris as a top global destination, and how to take advantage of the cruise and all-inclusive boom. Sally also breaks down the truth about credit card rewards—why she carries 18 cards, which perks actually pay off, and why holding onto points too long can cost you.

From packing hacks to avoiding lost luggage to the rise of luxury travel, this episode is packed with practical advice for anyone planning trips in the months ahead.

This episode features a paid guest appearance by NerdWallet.

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