FTU Dallas 2026 Preview | New Venue, Speakers, Tours, Live Podcast Studio & Earn/Burn Points

Frequent Traveler University Dallas is back for 2026, and host Justin Vacula is joined by returning guest Hunter Threadgill to preview everything attendees can expect from FTU Dallas, May 1–3, 2026.

In this episode, Justin and Hunter discuss the new FTU Dallas venue at NYLO Las Colinas, part of Tapestry Collection by Hilton, located near DFW Airport, along with expected attendance of around 200 people. They break down what makes this event appealing for points and miles enthusiasts, including a refreshed conference structure with Saturday focused on earning points and miles and Sunday focused on burning points for travel.

They also cover what is new for 2026, including a Friday airline tour, open-bar happy hour, a Friday night game show, and a new live podcast studio. The conversation highlights ticket pricing, FTU membership benefits, hotel options, included lunches, speaker topics, sponsor involvement, and the networking opportunities that make Frequent Traveler University events valuable for both beginners and advanced travelers.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

00:32 FTU Dallas 2026 Overview

01:59 Weekend Format: Earn and Burn

02:30 Tickets and Membership Perks

04:02 What’s New in 2026

05:54 Behind-the-Scenes Planning

07:21 New Speaker Highlights

10:25 Returning Favorites and Travel Legends

14:33 Hotel Deals and Nearby Stays

16:52 Announcements and Useful Links

18:39 More Speakers and Sponsors

20:24 Sponsors and Sessions

21:05 Conference Fun and Networking

22:13 Using Card Credits in Dallas

22:52 Tex-Mex and Restaurant Picks

24:30 Next Credit Card Applications

24:51 Status Goals and Priorities

26:23 Bilt Credit Hotel Win

29:33 Chase Edit and IHG Stacking

30:37 Upcoming Trips: Miami and More

31:33 Big Trips: Island Stay and Asia

33:06 Cherry Blossoms and Washington, DC Plans

35:27 FTU Dallas Final Reminder

36:03 Plum Card Roast Tease

37:04 Wrap-Up and Support Links

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